Updated on: 10 September, 2026 08:45 PM IST |Kavya Agarwal
It has been 16 years since Dabangg swaggered onto the big screen and introduced the fans to the unforgettable Chulbul Pandey! Packed with action, humour, romance and chart-topping music, the Salman Khan starrer became a massive entertainer. As the film completes 16 years, here are some lesser-known facts that make its journey even more interesting.
Inspiration for the moustache
Salman Khan took inspiration from veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha (who is Sonakshi Sinha's father) to grow his iconic moustache for the role of Chulbul Pandey.
Salman Khan took inspiration from veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha (who is Sonakshi Sinha's father) to grow his iconic moustache for the role of Chulbul Pandey.
Different original choices
The movie was first planned as a grittier project with actors like Randeep Hooda or Irrfan Khan before Arbaaz Khan suggested Salman Khan for the lead.
The movie was first planned as a grittier project with actors like Randeep Hooda or Irrfan Khan before Arbaaz Khan suggested Salman Khan for the lead.
Sonakshi's transformation
Sonakshi Sinha made her acting debut with this film. She had to lose around 30 kg over two years through strict diet and exercise to play the role of a village girl.
Sonakshi Sinha made her acting debut with this film. She had to lose around 30 kg over two years through strict diet and exercise to play the role of a village girl.
Sonu Sood's injury
Sonu Sood, who played the villain Chedi Singh, fractured his nose during an action scene while filming.
Sonu Sood, who played the villain Chedi Singh, fractured his nose during an action scene while filming.
Inspiration for Munni Badnaam
The item number "Munni Badnaam Hui" starring Malaika Arora was inspired by an older Bhojpuri folk song named "Launda Badnaam Hua".
The item number "Munni Badnaam Hui" starring Malaika Arora was inspired by an older Bhojpuri folk song named "Launda Badnaam Hua".
