From Shah Rukh to Salman: The Security Categories Assigned to Top Bollywood Stars

Due to threats from gangsters and fears for their lives, top Bollywood stars have long lived under tight security. Figures ranging from Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan to Amitabh Bachchan and Kangana Ranaut are protected by special government-provided security arrangements. This protective umbrella is determined not by a star's personal popularity, but by the level of risk they face.

According to Indian media reports, Salman Khan—who is frequently in the spotlight regarding his security—currently receives 'Y+' category protection. His security was bolstered in 2022 following threats from the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang, and it was further tightened after the 2024 assassination of politician Baba Siddique. Similarly, actor Shah Rukh Khan was granted 'Y+' category security in 2023 after receiving repeated death threats. Actress Kangana Ranaut was also provided with 'Y+' security by the central government in 2020, following threats made against her.

Meanwhile, megastar Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, and Anupam Kher are covered under the 'X' category of security. Additionally, director Vivek Agnihotri was provided with 'Y' category security following threats related to his film, *The Kashmir Files*.

Recently, following reports of gunfire near the residences of filmmaker Rohit Shetty and actor Tiger Shroff, surveillance and security in those areas have been increased. Security measures were also temporarily strengthened at the residence of actor Aamir Khan due to similar concerns. According to security analysts, the state-provided protection for these stars—whether it is increased, reduced, or withdrawn—is based on regular risk assessments conducted by intelligence agencies.