Rival games: SRK is the reason why Salman was roped in to host an Awards gala

Salman Khan may be hosting an awards event for the first time this weekend

However what's equally interesting is the industry buzz about roping in the Dabangg star for the gala. The awards are organised by an entertainment company (that also hosts film awards at international destinations every year) along with the Film and Television Producers Guild.

The said company was taken by surprise when another group decided to host a similar Bollywood awards at Vancouver in Canada - the same destination they were to host the 2013 edition of their awards. With Shah Rukh Khan launching the new awards and being part of the event, it was but natural that they turn to his archrival Salman for their show.


Says a source, `Of late, Salman has been staying away from award galas. He does not even go on the dais to receive honours for his film. So there is a lot more about his decision to now actually host such a gala!

The company was keen to get him on board at any cost. It was their way of trying to get back. It was like if you have SRK, we have Salman kind of scenario.` Adds the source, `It won't be a surprise if they try and convince Salman to host their international awards too this year!`

As reported 'Spot in the sun?' (Hitlist, January 22), the entertainment company was forced to cancel their Vancouver plans as the rival awards show was to be held earlier. They are now looking for an alternate overseas destination for their awards this year.