Mumbai: Bollywood star Salman Khan shared a deeply emotional tribute following the death of his close friend Sushil Kumar, whom he described as a 'brother' of over four decades.
The actor took to Instagram late Sunday night, posting a photograph with Sushil Kumar and penning a heartfelt note that reflected on their long friendship, his friend's resilience, and his outlook on life and death.
In his message, Salman remembered Sushil Kumar as someone who remained positive even during the toughest phases of life.
'This guy has been a brother for 42 years… the nicest, kindest, most helpful… even in the worst situations, always smiling, dancing… no pain, no stress,' he wrote.
He added that Sushil Kumar faced hardships—financial, emotional, and physical—with unwavering strength, often reassuring others that 'everything will be fine.'
Calling his friend a fighter, Salman wrote that he 'lived like a man' and 'fought death like a heavyweight champion.'
Despite the grief, Salman chose to celebrate his friend's life rather than mourn with tears.
'No tears for you, brother, only memories and laughter… My pra died with a smile on his face,' he wrote, adding a personal touch by imagining his friend enjoying his favourite indulgences 'somewhere up there.'
In a poignant and candid tone, Salman mixed humour with sorrow, saying he would miss him 'a bit,' while also expressing the emotional void left behind.
In a separate post, Salman reflected philosophically on death and acceptance. He wrote about the inevitability of life's end and suggested that one should not hold back those who are meant to leave.
He also shared his thoughts on karma, morality, and the idea that life should be lived meaningfully before it ends.
The actor's raw and unfiltered words struck a chord with fans, many of whom responded with messages of support and condolences.
Salman's tribute highlighted a deeply personal side of the actor, from the glamour of cinema. His reference to a 42-year-long friendship underscored the strength of their bond, built long before fame.
The emotional honesty in his posts—ranging from affection and humour to philosophical musings—offered a rare glimpse into his private life.
On the work front, Salman Khan is set to appear in his upcoming film Maatrubhumi, which is currently in the pipeline.
Salman Khan's heartfelt farewell to Sushil Kumar stands as a moving reminder of enduring friendship and the impact of personal loss. Blending grief with warmth and humour, his tribute resonated widely, celebrating a life remembered through memories rather than mourning alone.