Is Sooraj Pancholi the next Salman Khan? While one may think it's too soon to answer the question, the 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan' actor can already see himself in the newcomer.

"I also see myself, the earlier Salman Khan, in Sooraj. I asked director Nikhil Advani to give Sooraj a launch pad like I got from the Barjatiyas' who had also trusted in me then (for Maine Pyar Kiya)," Deccan Chronicle quoted the superstar as saying.

He also goes on to say how both Sooraj and Athiya Shetty weren't roped in for 'Hero' because they were star kids. Instead, they were given the opportunity to prove their talent to the world.

"I had seen ample talent in Sooraj and Athiya even before I cast them. We cast them not because they were Sunil Shetty and Aditya Pancholi's kids. They have lots of potential, both are very hard working kids," Salman elaborated.

Slated for an 11 September release, the romantic-action film has already been praised by Karan Johar. "#HERO is a super retro throwback to the quintessential Hindi film that all of us have loved and continue to love!!! Enjoyed it thoroughly!!," the filmmaker tweeted.

To add to this, Shah Rukh Khan also sent in his wishes for the debutants on Twitter.

However, like how a father would be worried about his kids' future, Salman too appears anxious in his interviews.

He feels the audience is already liking them in the trailer and songs, but it will all be decided once the film is out this Friday.

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