In a moment of cinematic pride for India, Salman Khan’s blockbuster spy thriller Ek Tha Tiger has been officially honoured at the prestigious International Spy Museum in Washington DC. Thirteen years after its release, the film has earned a coveted spot among the world’s most iconic espionage titles, becoming the first and only Indian film to be featured in the museum’s celebrated spy cinema section.
This recognition not only cements Ek Tha Tiger’s legacy as a genre-defining film in Bollywood but also places Indian storytelling on a global pedestal alongside legendary franchises like James Bond, Mission Impossible, and The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
Key highlights of the honour
- Ek Tha Tiger is the only Hindi-language film featured at the International Spy Museum
- The museum showcases around 25 globally acclaimed spy films and series
- The film now shares space with titles such as Casino Royale, Spy Game, Homeland, and Bridge of Spies
- Director Kabir Khan was unaware of the honour until fans spotted the poster and informed him
- The recognition is a recent addition, reflecting the film’s enduring popularity
A legacy built on grit and realism
Directed by Kabir Khan and produced by Aditya Chopra under Yash Raj Films, Ek Tha Tiger was released in 2012 and starred Salman Khan as RAW agent Avinash Singh Rathore and Katrina Kaif as ISI agent Zoya. The film broke away from Bollywood’s conventional action-romance formula, introducing audiences to a globe-trotting spy narrative rooted in raw action and minimal reliance on visual effects.
Kabir Khan reflected on the film’s journey, noting that its grounded action sequences and authentic storytelling helped it stand apart. He emphasized that the film’s success was not just due to star power but also its pioneering role in launching the YRF Spy Universe, which later expanded with titles like Tiger Zinda Hai, War, Pathaan, and Tiger 3.
Global recognition and cultural impact
The International Spy Museum, located in the heart of Washington DC, is renowned for its immersive exhibits on espionage history, tradecraft, and pop culture. Its cinema section honours films that have shaped public perception of spies and intelligence work. Ek Tha Tiger’s inclusion signals a growing appreciation for Indian cinema’s contribution to global narratives.
The museum’s selection includes Cold War classics, modern thrillers, and television series that explore the psychological and political dimensions of espionage. By featuring Ek Tha Tiger, the museum acknowledges the film’s unique blend of action, romance, and geopolitical intrigue.
Fan reactions and director’s surprise
The news of Ek Tha Tiger’s inclusion surfaced when fans visiting the museum spotted the film’s poster and shared it online. Kabir Khan expressed his amusement and pride, stating that he had no prior knowledge of the honour. He received messages from viewers who were thrilled to see Salman and Katrina’s faces on the museum’s wall of fame.
Videos like [At International Spy Museum, Washington DC, Salman Khan's ...](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRWssHToFIo) and [Salman Khan Ek Tha Tiger Poster In International Spy ...](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMo6b9EkgBM) capture the excitement of fans and showcase the film’s placement among global spy legends, offering a visual testament to its international acclaim.
What this means for Indian cinema
Ek Tha Tiger’s recognition is more than a tribute to one film—it’s a milestone for Indian cinema’s global outreach. It demonstrates that Bollywood’s storytelling, when executed with authenticity and ambition, can resonate across cultures and borders. The film’s success has inspired a new wave of spy thrillers in India, elevating the genre and expanding its audience.
As Salman Khan prepares for his upcoming war drama Battle of Galwan and a potential reunion with Kabir Khan for Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2, the legacy of Ek Tha Tiger continues to grow. Its place in the International Spy Museum is a reminder that stories rooted in Indian ethos can find a place on the world stage.
Sources: Bollywood Hungama, Zoom TV, News18, Hindustan Times, India Today, MSN India, Odisha Bytes
