Salman Khan, the undisputed ‘Bhai’ of Bollywood, has captivated audiences for decades with his larger-than-life persona, blockbuster films, and undeniable charisma. But amid his ripped physique, signature dance moves, and philanthropic endeavors, one accessory stands out as an enduring symbol of his identity: the silver bracelet adorned with a striking turquoise stone, often referred to as the ‘Feroza’ or ‘Firoza’ bracelet.
This seemingly simple piece of jewelry has transcended fashion to become a cultural phenomenon, sparking curiosity, imitation, and even superstition among fans worldwide. Why is it so famous? The answer lies in a blend of personal history, sentimental value, protective beliefs, and its seamless integration into Salman’s public image. In this blog, we’ll delve deep into the story behind the bracelet, exploring its origins, when Salman first wore it, the reasons he continues to sport it, and its broader impact on pop culture—all while unpacking the layers that make it more than just an ornament.
The bracelet’s roots trace back to Salman’s family, specifically his father, the legendary screenwriter Salim Khan. Salman has often shared that the accessory was inspired by his dad’s own habit of wearing a similar silver and turquoise piece. Growing up in a bustling Mumbai household as the eldest son of Salim and Salma Khan, young Salman was fascinated by his father’s bracelet. He would play with it as a child, admiring how it looked on Salim’s hand. This childhood admiration eventually led Salman to adopt one for himself.
According to multiple accounts, the bracelet was a gift from Salim Khan, symbolizing a father-son bond that has been a cornerstone of Salman’s life. In an old interview that resurfaced online, Salman recounted, “My father has always worn this. And growing up, it used to look cool on his hand. How kids play with things, I used to play with his bracelet. And then I got one made for myself.” This personal touch adds an emotional depth, transforming the bracelet from a mere accessory into a family heirloom passed down through generations—though in this case, it’s more of a stylistic inheritance.
First Appearance
But when exactly did Salman first don this iconic bracelet in the public eye? While the inspiration dates back to his childhood, Salman reportedly began wearing it consistently around 2003. That year marked a pivotal moment in his career with the release of Tere Naam, a romantic drama where he played the intense character Radhe, complete with a memorable long-haired look. The bracelet made its on-screen debut in this film, subtly accentuating his wrist during emotional scenes and action sequences.
Prior to 2003, in earlier hits like Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) or Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994), there’s no record of him sporting it, suggesting it was a later addition to his style. By the mid-2000s, it had become a staple, appearing in films such as Partner (2007), where it complemented his playful avatar. Over the years, the bracelet has “starred” in numerous blockbusters, from Wanted (2009) to Dabangg (2010) and beyond, often stealing subtle glances in close-up shots. Fans even joke that the bracelet has its own Bollywood career, having outlasted many co-stars in terms of screen time. This on-screen presence amplified its fame, as audiences began associating it with Salman’s unbreakable on-screen heroism.
The real intrigue, however, lies in why Salman wears the bracelet with such unwavering commitment. It’s not just for aesthetics—though its silver band and vibrant blue stone do add a rugged, masculine flair to his outfits, whether he’s in a casual tee or a formal suit. Salman attributes profound significance to it, viewing it as a lucky charm and protective talisman. The turquoise stone, known as Feroza in Persian (meaning “victorious”), is believed to ward off the evil eye, negativity, and misfortune. In Indian culture and astrology, turquoise is linked to the planet Jupiter, promoting wisdom, prosperity, and protection. Salman has openly stated that the stone absorbs negative energy directed at him, often cracking under the strain as a sign of its efficacy. Remarkably, he’s on his seventh stone, having replaced it multiple times after cracks appeared—each one a testament to the “battles” it has fought on his behalf. In a viral video from years ago, he explained, “This stone takes any negativity coming towards me onto itself, and it cracks.” This belief isn’t mere superstition for Salman; it’s tied to real-life challenges, including legal troubles, health issues, and recent threats from gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, which have heightened security around him. Amid these, the bracelet remains a constant, symbolizing resilience and paternal guidance.
Astrologically, the bracelet’s appeal extends beyond Salman. Turquoise is recommended for those under the influence of certain zodiac signs or planetary alignments, and Salman’s Sagittarius sun sign aligns with Jupiter’s energies. Fans speculate that it has contributed to his string of successes, from box-office records to his hosting stint on Bigg Boss, where he often fiddles with it during tense moments. The accessory’s value isn’t just sentimental; authentic Feroza stones can cost thousands, with Salman’s reportedly being of high quality, possibly sourced from Iran or Arizona, enhancing its aura of exclusivity.
The bracelet’s fame has ripple effects far beyond Salman’s wrist. It has sparked a fashion trend, with replicas flooding markets in India and abroad. Young fans, especially men, sport similar pieces to emulate their idol, turning it into a symbol of ‘Bhai’ fandom. Merchandise like keychains and phone cases featuring the design abound, and it’s even referenced in memes and social media challenges. On platforms like Instagram and Reddit, discussions about its “powers” go viral, with users sharing stories of how wearing a turquoise bracelet brought them luck. In Bollywood, it’s influenced styling; actors like Hrithik Roshan have their own signature accessories, but none match the lore of Salman’s. Culturally, it represents a fusion of tradition and modernity—rooted in family values yet amplified by celebrity culture. Recent events, such as the 2024 threats that put Salman under heightened protection, have brought renewed attention to the bracelet, with videos of him explaining its story garnering millions of views. It’s as if the accessory has become a shield in the public’s imagination, protecting their hero from harm.
In essence, Salman Khan’s bracelet is famous because it encapsulates the man himself: tough yet sentimental, lucky yet grounded. From its humble origins as a childhood fascination to its status as a protective icon in over two decades of films, it tells a story of legacy, belief, and stardom. Whether you see it as a fashion statement, an astrological aid, or simply a father’s gift, its enduring presence on Salman’s wrist reminds us that even superstars hold onto talismans for strength. As Salman turns 59 this year, the bracelet continues to shine, a blue beacon in the glittering world of Bollywood. If you’ve ever wondered about getting one yourself, remember—it’s not just about the stone; it’s about the story you weave around it.