Watch: Bollywood superstar Salman Khan gives a crash course in Dubai on nepotism

Dubai: This city loves a good Bollywood spectacle, and last night, it got a masterclass in star-powered privilege.

Salman Khan, the eternal ‘Bhai’ of Bollywood, landed in the city with his entire clan to launch his nephew Ayaan Agnihotri's music album at a swanky lounge.

And just in case anyone had doubts about the industry’s famous inner circle, Salman made sure to spell it out—loud and clear.

Flanked by a guest list dominated by Salman's tribe —Sonakshi Sinha, Zaheer, Sunil Grover, Bobby Deol, Iulia Vantur, and fitness guru Yasmin Karachiwala—the event was less about the music and more about the undeniable power of connections.

Salman himself set the tone for the night, delivering a cheeky yet telling line: “That is what is called nepotism.”

If you thought he was about to dodge the ‘N’ word, think again. Instead, he gave a full-blown crash course on why supporting family and friends is suddenly seen as a crime.

"We work for other people’s children, we love other people’s children, we give our wealth to other people’s kids,” he said, taking a dig at the industry’s ever-changing moral compass.

But the real star of the night? The Khan family’s change of heart. Apparently, Ayaan had been locked away in his room for years—his passion mistaken for something far more shadier.

“Why does he spend so much time in his bathrooom, we all wondered?” (Yes, that’s a direct quote from Salman, make of it what you will.)

It took them 25 years to realise Ayaan wasn’t just wasting time—he was creating, making music, and now, finally stepping into the limelight with a launch only Bollywood royalty could dream of.

Nepotism? Favoritism? Family business? Call it what you want—Salman Khan doesn’t just acknowledge it; he owns it. And in true irreverent star style, he made sure Ayaan got the kind of red-carpet welcome that only a Khan can command.

What did we think of Ayaan's talent? Let's put it this way. He's incredibly fortunate that he's got a famous uncle backing him with all his might and actors like Bobby Deol who are willing to put their sculpted necks out for him.

"I couldn't dream of missing out of Ayaan's launch in Dubai ... Salman and his family have a heart of gold. Ayaan's dad and I studied together too, so this is a proud moment for all of us," said Bobby Deol to Gulf News.

With such robust testimonials from Bollywood insiders, one might expect Ayaan to be riding high on praise. However, if my early reactions to his album are anything to go by, he might be feeling a bit salty about the mixed reception.