Mukesh Khanna clarifies he never confirmed Ranveer Singh as Shaktimaan—says his statement was misunderstood

Mukesh Khanna, the actor who made the iconic superhero Shaktimaan a part of every Indian’s childhood, has now addressed the swirling rumours about Ranveer Singh being cast in the upcoming film version. The veteran actor recently broke his silence and cleared up the confusion during his conversation with Shardul Pandit on his podcast.

Speaking about the hype, Mukesh shared, “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 added that although he met Ranveer Singh, and the actor showed strong interest in the role, nothing has been finalised yet.

Mukesh went on to say, “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.” He explained that Ranveer spent almost three hours with him and seemed genuinely passionate about the character. However, Mukesh feels a strong emotional connection with Shaktimaan and is still unsure whether a film adaptation should even happen. “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,” he said honestly.

Reports earlier had claimed that Ranveer waited patiently to meet Mukesh Khanna to seek his blessings. Confirming this, Mukesh said the meeting did happen and Ranveer indeed showed deep interest in playing the superhero. Addressing fans directly on social media, Mukesh further clarified, “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.”

He also made it clear that he isn’t comparing himself with Ranveer or anyone else. “I have not come to prove or show that I am better than Ranveer Singh or anyone who will wear the mantle of Shaktimaan,” he added. For now, fans will have to wait to see who finally becomes the next Shaktimaan.