Salman Khan was Sanjay Leela Bhansali's first choice for "Bajirao Mastani", and thus, the director has apparently attributed special credits to the superstar. It has been reported that the opening credits in "Bajirao Mastani" mentions one "S", which is a secret attribution to Salman.

Salman was apparently Bhansali's inspiration for the movie, as he initially wanted to cast him and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in the lead. However, things turned sour between Salman and Aishwarya. Eventually, the director made "Bajirao Mastani" with Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone.

Although Salman could not be a part of the magnum opus, Bhansali apparently ensured that he mentions the superstar somewhere in the movie. "There was no way Sanjay wouldn't mention Salman somewhere in the film. After all, he was his original inspiration for the film. So even though Sanjay might not admit it in public, the dedication is definitely for Salman," Bollywoodlife quoted a source as saying.

Earlier, Salman had expressed unhappiness on not being a part of "Bajirao Mastani". "I feel unfortunate to not be part of 'Bajirao Mastani'. I had to be part of 'Prem Ratan Dhan Payo'. I have heard the script. It is a very nice script," PTI had quoted the "Sultan" actor as saying.

Apart from Ranveer and Deepika, the film also features Priyanka Chopra in a key role. Released with Shah Rukh Khan's "Dilwale", "Bajirao Mastani" is having a good run at the box office.

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