Salman Khan's 1990s Ramayana halted after 40% shoot, leaving Bollywood epic unfinished

An ambitious 1990s Ramayana film starring Salman Khan as Lord Ram was permanently shelved after about 40% shooting, derailed by personal relationships and family intervention. Directed by Salman's brother Sohail Khan, the film featured Sonali Bendre as Sita and Pooja Bhatt in a major role. During shooting, Sohail and Pooja fell in love. Salim Khan pressured his son to break off the relationship; Pooja eventually withdrew, dooming the project. Promotional images of Khan as Ram had excited audiences. Three decades later, a new wave of mythological films includes Ranbir Kapoor's 'Ramayana,' releasing this November, and other upcoming epics.