"I have put my foot down."
Mukesh Khanna is celebrated for his television portrayal of the iconic superhero Shaktimaan.
However, he has expressed disapproval over rumours that Ranveer Singh will play the hero.
After a film adaptation was reportedly announced, fans were excited.
But when it was reported that Ranveer would essay the superhero, Mukesh was less than keen.
In a video, Mukesh said: “There are rumours on social media that Ranveer Singh would portray Shaktimaan.
“And everyone was angry about it. I remained silent.
“But when channels started announcing that Ranveer has been signed, then I had to speak up.
“And I have said that no matter how big a star he is, a person with such kind of image can never become Shaktimaan. I have put my foot down. Now let’s see what happens next.”
Mukesh Khanna also bashed Ranveer’s nude photoshoot for Paper Magazine.
“If he feels comfortable with nudity then he should go to countries where he can do nude scenes any every third scene.”
He stressed the importance of prioritising content over star power in any cinematic venture, including a potential Shaktimaan adaptation.
Mukesh continued: “I have told the producers, that your competition is not with Spider-Man, Batman, Captain Planet.
“Shaktimaan is not just a superhero, he has also become a super teacher.
“Now, the actor who takes on the role should have the quality that when he speaks, people will listen.
“There are big actors, but their image comes in the middle.
“If Shaktimaan is made, then he has to be powerful because he comes next to Sarva Shaktimaan.
“Sarva Shaktimaan is God. He is the strongest in the universe. He has everything.
“The physical casting is a must.
“I have also said that if the movie runs, it will run on content and not because of a superstar.”
In response to Mukesh Khanna’s comments, fans have expressed mixed opinions.
Some echo his sentiments about preserving the integrity of Shaktimaan’s character.
Others have defended Singh’s versatility as an actor.
Defending Ranveer’s versatility as an actor, one said:
“Sir if you ask me he is a versatile actor and a good fit to play Shaktimaan, he can do anything in his personal life, we want our hero Shaktimaan.
“I am not saying that I am a big fan but he is the right fit for playing Shaktimaan and Gangadhar.”
However, another sided with Mukesh, saying:
“Totally agree with you sir, he would be the worst choice.
“Shaktimaan is one of the best memories of our childhood and we don’t want anyone to ruin that image in our mind.”
“It would be very difficult for us to see anyone else as Shaktimaan, and you would be the best to select one.”
Despite the division of opinion, Mukesh Khanna’s comments have reignited discussions about the qualities needed for an actor to embody such an iconic and beloved character.
Shaktimaan aired from 1997 to 2005.
It remains one of Indian television’s most cherished and enduring superhero shows.
Mukesh Khanna’s portrayal of the titular character left an indelible mark on generations of viewers.
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