How many armed men does it take to protect Salman Khan nowadays? Apparently, if the count on the sets of AR Murgadoss’s action thriller ‘Sikander’ is any indication, it takes 70 men. The actor is shooting at Hyderabad’s Falaknuma Palace with South beauty Rashmika Mandana. And his security detail is providing the extra show to star-struck staff of the heritage hotel where the set is located and the cast is staying.

Salman, whose life has been threatened by gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has got government sanctioned security which includes NSG commandos and Hyderabad police personnel. In addition to which, Salman has appointed the services of a private security firm which includes ex-para military personnel. Then there is a team of diehard loyalists handpicked by Salman’s friend and longtime bodyguard Shera. Plus, an additional cover provided by the Mumbai Police. In all, there are around 70 people who have got Bhai’s back all the time.

Falaknuma Palace sources say a part of the property has been cordoned off for the ‘Sikander’ set. The production team has secured the entire hotel and grounds and access to the set is restricted to those working on the film. This after background and ID checks are done. The hotel staff also undergo daily screenings and nobody is allowed to swap their duty. Guests staying at the Falaknuma Palace have to undergo two levels of screening: one by the hotel and the other by Salman’s security team. ‘Sikander’ is slated for an Eid 2025 release. The film is being produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and the cast includes Suniel Shetty, Kajal Aggarwal, Sharman Joshi, Prateik Patil Babbar, Sathyaraj, and Anjini Dhawan.