Salman, the superstar, turns 47 today

Birthday boy Salman Khan has reportedly been exempted from appearing before a court personally today, on his 47th birthday, in the 2002 hit-and-run case. On activist Santosh Daundkar’s petition, Salman had to appear before the court. In his reply filed in the court, the actor reportedly refuted allegations that he has delayed his trial as baseless and also contended that the application under Section 195 of the CrPC, which deals with contempt of the authority of public servants, is not tenable.

This is a double-celebration time for the Khan household as their latest releaseDabangg 2is also doing very well at the office and is expected to exceed the box office profits of Salman’s other blockbustersDabanggandEk Tha Tiger. A source said, "The Khan parivar is in the mood for celebration. Salman's had a terrific year. And though some ugly incidents from the past were raised, the family has never felt more unified and at peace with Salman's success. Salman too is in a happy space. And it's not just Salman. Arbaaz has proven himself as a director. He has let the world know there's more to him than just being a star-brother. As a family, the Khans would like to stand together for once and show the world what a wonderful year it has been for them." On the occasion, an elated Salman said, "Every fan appreciates me for what I did during Maine Pyar Kiya, but that work is different than today's work. In my initial films, I had lot of innocence. Now at 47, I am expected to do ten times better work than I did at 22". He confessed, "The older you grow the better you have to look, the harder you have to work and action and romance should happen consequently".

On the eve of his birthday, Salman organized his birthday party in the company of his family and friends and he also waved to his fans and shutterbugs from the balcony of his residence at Galaxy Apartments, Bandra. An insider said, "This year Salman's birthday bash was supposed to take place in his farm house as usual. But Salman said to have the party at home this time. Because his next birthday would be in his new residence. It's a very unhappy thought for Salman. But what to do? Galaxy Apartments is getting cramped for him, his wardrobe and his cars. He fought off moving out as long as he could." Today also a party will be held and the guest list includes Aamir Khan and wife Kiran, Sajid Nadiadwala, Farah Khan and husband Shirish Kunder, Sonakshi Sinha with her parents, however as Katina Kaif is in London with her family currently, she has sent her birthday wishes.