Vivek Oberoi called a press conference on All Fools Day. But what he said was no joking matter: he alleged that Salman Khan had called him up 41 times in one night and threatened him.

Vivek claimed Salman warned him to stay away from Aishwarya Rai.

Salman's much-publicised relationship with Ash had made headlines for one controversial reason or the other.

Every Indian news channel televised Vivek's diatribe live, pushing back all other news, including the ongoing Gulf War.

Salman refused to comment.

Soon after, Ash issued a statement saying she would not work with Salman and declared, 'The Salman chapter was a nightmare in my life and I am thankful to God that it is over!'

Ironically, when the heat and dust subsided, Vivek was the butt of tinsel town jokes while Salman - Bollywood's brat in residence -- came off looking much better than he has in years.

Text: Sita Menon

Salman threatened me, says Vivek
Salman amused
Welcome to the Bollywood circus