November 14, 2024: In a rare and unexpected turn, veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, known for his iconic portrayal of the superhero Shaktimaan, has addressed the recent controversy surrounding his press conference and clarified some of his earlier remarks regarding the Shaktimaan reboot. The 65-year-old actor’s comments about Ranveer Singh playing the next superhero sparked a heated debate among fans and media alike. But in a new post on X (formerly Twitter), Khanna took the opportunity to clear the air and set the record straight.
Mukesh Khanna’s impromptu press conference, where he appeared in full superhero costume, became the talk of the town. The actor was questioned about the long-standing rumors of Ranveer Singh stepping into the role of superhero for a big-screen reboot. During the event, Khanna made it clear that he alone holds the right to decide who can take over the legacy of the superhero, dismissing suggestions that Singh’s involvement was a done deal.
When asked about reports that Ranveer Singh was made to wait for hours at Khanna’s office, the actor dismissed the allegations. “No one forced Ranveer to wait. He sat for three hours because he wanted to. We enjoyed each other’s company. He’s a fantastic actor with great energy. But when it comes to Shaktimaan, the decision lies with me. Producers cast the actors, not the other way around,” Khanna remarked.
Khanna’s blunt response didn’t stop there. He continued, “To play Shaktimaan, you need more than just star power. You need the right face. Why do you think Akshay Kumar wasn’t convincing as Prithviraj Chauhan? He wore a wig and fake moustache, but it didn’t work.”
Mukesh Khanna: “I Am the Real Shaktimaan”
Following the press conference, Khanna took to social media to address growing misconceptions about his stance on the Shaktimaan reboot. “Let me clarify,” he began in his X post. “Some viewers believe I declared myself the next Shaktimaan, which is completely false. I am already the Shaktimaan. There can only be one Shaktimaan, and that’s me. A new Shaktimaan will only emerge when the time is right, but that hasn’t happened yet.”
Khanna went on to stress that he wasn’t trying to compete with Ranveer Singh or diminish his acting abilities. “I’m not here to say I’m better than anyone else,” he wrote. “I’ve always been about passing on messages of hope, strength, and positivity, and that’s why I dressed up as Shaktimaan—to connect with today’s youth. The hunt for the next superhero is still on, and when the time comes, the right person will be chosen.”
The veteran actor further added that he had no personal animosity towards Ranveer Singh, who has been attached to the project since 2022 when Sony Pictures India announced plans for a Shaktimaan film. “Ranveer is a talented actor, and if he does end up playing Shaktimaan, I will have no objections. But I am still the face of Shaktimaan. The legacy of the character belongs to me.”
Shaktimaan Reboot: A Hollywood-Style Makeover for Indian Superheroes?
The superhero film reboot has been one of the most talked-about film projects in recent years. With the rise of superhero films globally, especially after the success of franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe, many believe Shaktimaan could be India’s answer to Hollywood-style superhero blockbusters. Ranveer Singh’s name has been linked to the project since its inception, and director Basil Joseph of Minnal Murali fame was rumored to be behind the camera for this high-octane reboot. However, no official announcements have been made regarding the casting or production timeline.
The original superhero television series, which aired from 1997 to 2005, was a cultural phenomenon in India. It introduced millions of children to the concept of superheroes, blending mythological elements with action-packed storylines. The show’s popularity led to Khanna becoming a household name, and his association with the character remains deeply entrenched in the minds of fans.
Despite the excitement surrounding the film, the question of who will succeed Mukesh Khanna as superhero remains a matter of contention. While many fans believe Ranveer Singh is the natural choice for the role, Khanna’s remarks highlight that the legacy of Shaktimaan is about more than just star power—it’s about maintaining the essence and values the character represents.
What’s Next for Shaktimaan?
While Mukesh Khanna may not yet have the answer to who will take on the role of Shaktimaan, he has made it clear that the character will live on—whether he’s involved or not. As the hunt for the next superhero continues, fans can only wait and see who will be chosen to carry forward the legacy of India’s most beloved superhero.
For now, one thing is certain: Mukesh Khanna remains the heart and soul of Shaktimaan, and the superhero’s legacy will forever be tied to his iconic portrayal.