The long-discussed reboot of India’s iconic superhero Shaktimaan continues to generate buzz, and at the center of it all is the evolving stance of veteran actor Mukesh Khanna toward Ranveer Singh. For nearly two years, speculation has linked Ranveer Singh to the titular role in the Shaktimaan reboot. However, Mukesh Khanna, who immortalized the character in the original series has repeatedly voiced strong objections to this casting choice.
Mukesh Khanna
Mukesh Khanna On Ranveer As Shaktimaan
Now, in a recent interaction, Khanna appears more appreciative of Ranveer’s talent, even as he maintains his reservations. Praising Ranveer, he acknowledged the actor’s tremendous energy and powerful performances in films like Dhurandhar, Gully Boy, and Padmaavat. However, Khanna emphasized that playing Shaktimaan requires something beyond sheer acting ability.
Mukesh Khanna
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According to Khanna, the role of Shaktimaan demands a unique combination of physical presence, facial identity, and moral aura, not just performance skills. He explained that the character must embody a larger-than-life, almost mythological quality, comparing the required look to that of historical figures like Prithviraj Chauhan. In his view, even accomplished actors may fall short if they don’t naturally fit this image.
Mukesh Khanna
Khanna also hinted at deeper concerns about how the reboot might be handled creatively. He expressed reluctance to see Shaktimaan transformed into what he described as a disco drama, suggesting that the essence of the character must remain rooted in its original values.
Mukesh Khanna
He revealed that years ago, Aditya Chopra and his team had approached him for the rights to Shaktimaan. At the time, he declined the offer, preferring collaboration over complete creative handover. Interestingly, Khanna shared that Ranveer Singh had personally met him in an attempt to convince him for the role. While the meeting reflected Ranveer’s enthusiasm, it didn’t change Khanna’s stance.