Dulquer Salmaan To be honest, we can’t remember how many times we’ve seen Ustad Hotel or OK Kanmani again. Indeed, we are compelled to recall the romantic hero that Dulquer Salmaan once so aptly personified. He is currently experimenting with every genre possible and is unquestionably quite good at each of them. However, we still yearn to see him in another lovely love story because we are hopelessly romantic. Here’s why we believe Dulquer Salmaan brought back the gentle magic of romance to the screen.
We’ve secretly hoped that our partners would refer to us as “Kanmani” the way Dulquer Salmaan did—gently, playfully, and with love—ever since we first saw OK Kanmani in 2015. That is our own version of the Roman Empire. In addition to being extraordinarily attractive and a talented actor, Dulquer commands the screen with ease, not by showing off his strength but rather with a quiet assurance and eyes that speak volumes—saying what words never truly can. He gives us butterflies and somehow adds a little more magic to life, both literally and figuratively. Did we mention that smile?
In addition to his attractiveness (which, let’s face it, doesn’t hurt), Dulquer Salmaan’s emotional intelligence, which comes through in every role he plays, is what makes his romantic charm so alluring. His character Adi in OK Kanmani is more than simply a game designer; he’s also playful, perceptive, and emotionally present—qualities that, to be honest, are more appealing than any six-pack. He never tries to save the day; instead, he listens, teases, and encourages Tara’s goals. All he is is a companion. Additionally, Dulquer’s masculine characters are rather… kind in their environment.
Next was 100 Days of Love, in which he portrayed a romantically involved writer whose eccentric appeal was as charming as his voiceovers. Dulquer transformed unrequited love into something poetic rather than pathetic;in someone else’s hands, this part may have sounded forced. Furthermore, let’s not even discuss Sita Ramam. His portrayal of Lieutenant Ram was a masterful blend of devastating loyalty, passion, bravery, and vulnerability. He was a patient waiter, a writer of love letters, and a man who treated Sita (Mrunal Thakur) like the moon. More than just a hero, Dulquer served as a reminder that love need not be painful.
The emotional openness of Dulquer Salmaan’s romantic roles is what makes them unique. Dulquer’s characters are safe in their sensitivity, whether it’s Charlie, the free-spirited nomad who values presence over things, or Faizi from Ustad Hotel, who learns the formula for soulful biryani and deep love. Seldom do they act as protectors. They don’t use jealousy or rage to express their love. They prepare meals. They weep. They compose. They bide their time. They pay attention. Yes, they do smile.
In a 2023 conversation with PTI, Dulquer shared his thoughts by saying:
“I’ve come to the realisation that I can’t live out the next ten years as a romantic hero. It’s time for me to move on as I approach my 40th birthday. I don’t want to fit into a specific genre. I want to keep challenging myself and face my fears head-on.
We respectfully disagree, then. Not to be overlooked are his own words:
“I genuinely think that a tree and I can get along.” To be honest, we think he is real.
The romantic hero has been redefined by Dulquer Salmaan, not only brought back to life. He has made him infinitely more intriguing, more sympathetic, and more real. In Dulquer’s world, romance isn’t defined by grand rescues or flashy displays—it’s rooted in something far deeper and more genuine. Long talks, loving looks, profound respect, and that gentle “Kanmani” reverberating in your head are all part of it.