Mukesh Khanna Speaks Out on the Ranveer Singh 'Shaktimaan' Controversy

Synopsis

In a recent podcast, veteran actor Mukesh Khanna addresses the ongoing controversy surrounding Ranveer Singh's potential portrayal of Shaktimaan, clarifying his views and the confusion that has arisen. He emphasizes his deep connection to the character and his stance on the future of the iconic superhero.

Key Takeaways

Mukesh Khanna clarified his position on the Shaktimaan controversy involving Ranveer Singh.
Khanna praised Singh's enthusiasm but did not confirm his role.
He expressed his emotional connection to Shaktimaan after 30 years.
Ranveer Singh had shown eagerness to take on the superhero role.
Khanna emphasizes the legacy of Shaktimaan that he has created.

Mumbai, April 17 (NationPress) Esteemed actor Mukesh Khanna has addressed the much-talked-about 'Shaktimaan' controversy involving Ranveer Singh for the first time.

Khanna elaborated on his views regarding Ranveer’s connection to the legendary superhero role, sharing insights about their encounter, the persistent misunderstandings, and why he has not confirmed Singh as the next Shaktimaan. On a recent episode of Shardul Pandit’s podcast, Mukesh disclosed that Ranveer Singh was highly enthusiastic about taking on the role. When queried about the future of Shaktimaan, the actor refrained from giving a clear-cut answer, instead providing a thoughtful response. “For the last four years, people have been inquiring about this. Two years were lost due to the COVID pandemic, while the other two were consumed by controversy.”

He continued, “Ranveer Singh was incredibly keen—almost desperate—to portray Shaktimaan. I’ve spoken highly of him. However, I must clarify: I never stated he is Shaktimaan. I admired his enthusiasm and energy—he spent three hours with me and showed great passion for the role. Yet, I wish to see Shaktimaan as Shaktimaan. I have lived with that character for three decades. Therefore, I cannot confirm whether Shaktimaan is on the way or if it even should be.”

In November of last year, reports surfaced that Mukesh Khanna mentioned that Ranveer had once waited three hours to meet him, aspiring to gain his approval for the iconic role of Shaktimaan. During a media interaction, the veteran actor addressed speculation regarding Singh waiting for hours at his office while discussing the role.

Mukesh Khanna, who recently reprised his iconic role as Shaktimaan for a patriotic song, clarified that he holds no objections to Ranveer Singh stepping into the superhero’s role. He took to his X handle to explain: “I want to clarify a misunderstanding that some viewers may have formed: through this song and press conference, I did not declare that I will be the next Shaktimaan. This is completely incorrect. Let me elaborate.”

“Firstly, why should I claim I will be the next Shaktimaan? I am already Shaktimaan. There can only be another Shaktimaan when there is a Shaktimaan. And I am that Shaktimaan. Without me, there cannot be another Shaktimaan. As Shaktimaan, I must uphold the legacy of Shaktimaan. Secondly, I am not here to prove or demonstrate that I am superior to Ranveer Singh or anyone else who may take on the role of Shaktimaan. Become the next Shaktimaan,” he concluded.