Salim Khan was born on November 24, 1935, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. He grew up in a well-known family of Indore.

Salim Khan’s father used to serve as the Indian Imperial Police and retired as Deputy Inspector General(DUG) in Indore. The writer faced a tragic loss early in life when both of his parents passed away. He was just 14 years old at the time.

He attended St. Raphaels` School in Indore, and later completed BA from Holkar`s college It was during this period, he pursued interest in acting and tried his luck by coming to Mumbai.

Salim Khan was not only academically inclined but also pursued interests beyond the classroom. He was a trained pilot and had keen interest in sports.

However, his early days in Mumbai were not easy. From working as mechanic to living in a half room apartment at Rs 55 rent, he worked hard to make ends meet.

His career kickstarted in 1960s when he worked as a supporting artist in many films. One of them was Baraat, directed by K. Amarnath.

Salim met Javed Akhthar for first time during the making of the film Sarhadi Lootera, which was fated to be Salim`s last acting appearance. The duo hit it off well and formed a script-writing team that came to be known as Salim–Javed.

Together, they have written iconic films like Don franchise, Zanjeer, Trishul, Sholay, Seeta Aur Geeta among others. They writer-duo is credited to save Amitabh Bachchan`s career and helping him earn the moniker of `Angry Young Man`.

But Salim and Javed ended their successful partnership in 1982 and this decision shocked the industry. While the reason of their split remains unknown, Javed once said they grew apart with time and hence decided to part ways.

Salim Khan married Salma Khan – born Sushila Charak, on November 18, 1964. The duo have four bilogical children together – actor-sons Salman Khan, Arbaaz Khan and Sohail Khan and daughter Alvira Khan Agnihotri.

Salim first met Helen on the set of Kabuli Khan, where she played the lead role and he portrayed a villain. The two then tied the knot in 1981 without divorcing Salma, a decision that was met with pain and resistance at home.

However, the families have now accepted each other and they live with harmony. Helen is often seen visiting Khan family`s family outings.