Exclusive: Salman Khan steps in as body double Parvez Kazi undergoes surgery

Actor Salman Khan has stepped in to help his longtime body double Parvez Kazi after he fell unwell amid the ongoing shoot of his upcoming film with Nayanthara and director Vamshi Paidipally. The health scare occurred on August 6, when Kazi was at home and began feeling unwell. India Today has now learnt that he was taken to the hospital, where he underwent a minor surgery, with Salman personally taking charge of the situation and ensuring that his treatment was taken care of.Speaking exclusively to India Today, Kazi's manager Piyush clarified that contrary to reports, Parvez did not suffer a heart attack and is now recovering well. He said Kazi initially felt unwell at home and went for a medical check-up. After a series of tests, he was admitted to the hospital where he underwent a minor heart surgery.Piyush also revealed that Salman immediately stepped in after learning about Kazi's condition and handled everything, including his treatment. He said Salman was "right there with us" and made sure that Kazi received the necessary medical care. Parvez, he added, is extremely grateful to the actor for taking care of everything as soon as he learnt about the health scare."Salman sir treats Parvez sir, like a younger brother and helped immediately," the manager said, adding that Kazi is now "absolutely fine" and has been advised to rest for a few days before returning to work. Piyush said that Parvez is recovering well and is expected to be back on set soon. Initially, it was reported that Parvez had suffered a heart attack on set. The health scare had prompted reports that Salman would take on a larger share of the action himself while Kazi recovered. The film's stunt schedule has also reportedly been reorganised with additional safety measures for the star to shoot smoothly. However, with Kazi now doing well, he is expected to soon return to the sets after his recovery.The development comes as Salman is in the middle of an extensive Mumbai schedule for his upcoming action entertainer with Nayanthara. The team began a six-week Mumbai schedule earlier this month, with three major action set-pieces planned. Paidipally has reportedly recreated an Afghan village at Prime Focus Studio in Film City, Goregaon, with Salman and Nayanthara shooting several large-scale action sequences there. A Korean action team is also reportedly involved in designing the film's stunts. Reportedly titled Monster, the film is directed by Vamshi Paidipally and produced by Dil Raju. It is expected to be released on Eid 2027. The film also features actor Nayanthara in a crucial role.About Parvez KaziParvez Kazi has been Salman Khan's body double for several years and has worked with him on films including Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, Sultan, Tiger Zinda Hai, Race 3, Bharat, Dabangg 3 and Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai. His resemblance to Salman has often made him a familiar face among fans, with pictures of the two together from film sets regularly going viral.In an earlier interview with The Times of India, Kazi had spoken about his equation with Salman, saying the actor treats him like a younger brother. He had also explained that his work as a body double involves standing in for Salman while setting up lighting, appearing in long shots and back-facing shots, and stepping in for certain action portions.Meanwhile, Salman's war-drama Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace may not arrive in theatres this year after all. According to a report, the film's release could be pushed to 2027 as the makers continue to address concerns reportedly raised by the Ministry of Defence over certain portions of the film, including references to China.The film was initially announced as Battle of Galwan before being retitled Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace. Earlier, speaking to Hindustan Times, Lakhia said the change was part of the creative process and not a last-minute decision.Maatrubhumi: May War Rest in Peace features Salman Khan and Chitrangada Singh in the lead. While reports suggest the makers are still working through the pending concerns, an official announcement on the film's release date is awaited.- EndsPublished By: Anurag BohraPublished On: Aug 25, 2026 00:03 IST