Dabangg director Abhinav Kashyap revealed Salman Khan was insecure about casting Sonu Sood as the villain because of his strong physique. Katrina Kaif helped convince Salman. Originally, Randeep Hooda was considered for the lead, but Sohail Khan insisted on a bigger star. Arbaaz Khan agreed to produce if Salman starred, making the film a hit.