"The stuff dreams are made of."
Farhan Akhtar has recently shared his excitement about playing Pandit Ravi Shankar in the upcoming biopics on The Beatles.
The Indian actor is set to make a significant Hollywood debut in this ambitious four-part cinematic project.
Directed by Oscar-winning Sam Mendes, the films will explore the individual lives of the legendary British band members.
Each film will focus on a different musician while their stories overlap across the four distinct features.
Farhan will portray the world-renowned sitar maestro who famously influenced the band’s musical direction during the 1960s.
The casting announcement was officially confirmed by Sony Pictures earlier in February 2026.
Farhan took to social media to express his deep gratitude for being selected for such a pivotal role.
He noted that the opportunity to work with Sam Mendes is a career highlight for him.
The actor has long been an admirer of the director’s previous works, like 1917 and Skyfall.
He said: “Honoured and grateful to be part of the ever-expanding legacy of The Beatles and of Pandit Ravi Shankar ji.”
Farhan further explained how the music of the Fab Four has served as a companion throughout his life.
He described their creative output as a rite of passage for listeners across multiple generations.
The actor is reportedly already undergoing rigorous training to master the basics of the sitar for the role.
Although he is a skilled guitar player, the classical Indian instrument presents a unique challenge for him.
He said: “To be directed by you in this film, is the stuff dreams are made of.”
Pandit Ravi Shankar played a crucial part in the history of The Beatles, particularly through his friendship with George Harrison.
Their collaboration introduced Indian classical music and spirituality to a global Western audience.
This cultural exchange is expected to be a central theme in the upcoming biographical films.
Farhan’s portrayal will highlight the mentorship that shaped iconic tracks like ‘Norwegian Wood’ and ‘Within You Without You’.
The production for the four-film event is currently underway in the United Kingdom.
This project marks the first time that the band has granted full life story and music rights for a scripted film.
The ensemble cast features Harris Dickinson as John Lennon and Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney.
Joseph Quinn will take on the role of George Harrison while Barry Keoghan portrays Ringo Starr.
Supporting cast members include Saoirse Ronan as Linda McCartney and Anna Sawai as Yoko Ono.
Farhan Akhtar is widely recognised in India for his versatile performances in films such as Bhaag Milkha Bhaag.
This new international role represents a major step forward for Indian representation in global cinema.
Industry experts believe his musical background makes him the perfect choice to embody the spirit of Ravi Shankar.
The actor has previously appeared in the Marvel Studios series Ms. Marvel in a brief cameo role.
However, The Beatles project will be his first major leading role in a large-scale Western production.
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