Mukesh Khanna speaks out on Ranveer Singh's Shaktimaan casting: I never said he is Shaktimaan

Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, who became a household name in the 90s as the original 'Shaktimaan', has finally spoken up about the buzz surrounding the casting of Ranveer Singh in the upcoming film adaptation. The iconic superhero show was a massive hit during its time, and Mukesh Khanna’s portrayal is still deeply cherished by fans.
Mukesh Khanna breaks silence on Ranveer Singh’s Shaktimaan casting rumours
The original face of the iconic Indian superhero, Mukesh Khanna, opened up about the speculations surrounding Ranveer Singh’s casting as Shaktimaan. He shared details about their personal meeting and clarified why he never officially confirmed Ranveer as the new face of the beloved superhero.
Podcast Reveal
During his appearance on Shardul Pandit's podcast, Mukesh Khanna spoke in detail about the confusion and speculation that surrounded the development of the Shaktimaan film.
Mukesh revealed that although Ranveer Singh showed strong interest in playing Shaktimaan, no final decision has been made. "For the last four years, people have been asking me this question. Two years were lost to the COVID era, and the other two got tangled in controversy," he said.
Adding further to the conversation, Khanna stated, "Ranveer Singh was very eager-desperate, even-to do Shaktimaan. I've said many good things about him. But in the end, I had to clarify: I never said he is Shaktimaan. I praised his performance, his energy-he spent three hours with me and was very passionate about the role. But I want to see Shaktimaan as Shaktimaan. I've lived with that character for 30 years. So today, I can't tell you whether Shaktimaan is coming or if it even should come."
Ranveer's interest in playing the role
Earlier in November, reports surfaced that Ranveer Singh had waited for three hours to meet Mukesh Khanna, hoping to get his blessings to play the iconic superhero Shaktimaan. Mukesh Khanna later confirmed that the meeting did happen and shared that Ranveer had shown a strong interest in taking on the role.
Mukesh clarifies on 'Shaktimaan' casting
The actor who recently made a return to his superhero avatar in a patriotic song, took to social media to clarify his stance on the 'Shaktimaan' casting. In a post on X, he further explained his views regarding the ongoing speculation. "I have come to clarify a misconception which a section of my viewers are started having that through this song and press conference I had come to declare to the world that I will be the next 'Shaktimaan'. Totally wrong. Let me explain."
"Firstly why should I say I will be the next Shaktimaan. I am already the Shaktimaan. There would be another Shaktimaan only when there is a Shaktimaan. And I am that Shaktimaan. Without me there cannot be other Shaktimaan. Since as Shaktimaan I have to create the Legacy of Shaktimaan. Secondly I have not come to prove or show that I am better than Ranveer Singh or any one who will wear the mantle of Shaktimaan. Become the next Shaktimaan, he added."