Mukesh Khanna Rejects Tiger Shroff as New Shaktimaan: ‘He Is Still a Child Among Children’ Following Ranveer Singh’s Exit
In a recent development in the casting debate surrounding the revival of the iconic superhero character *Shaktimaan*, veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has expressed his disapproval over the consideration of Bollywood star Tiger Shroff for the lead role. This comes shortly after actor Ranveer Singh was also speculated to take on the mantle of India’s beloved superhero, only to face skepticism from Khanna, who famously portrayed the character in the original TV series that aired in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Mukesh Khanna, who remains closely associated with *Shaktimaan* and is considered synonymous with the character, has not been shy about sharing his opinions on the reboot. His recent remarks on Tiger Shroff have sparked a new wave of conversations among fans and the media. According to Khanna, while Tiger Shroff has made a name for himself with his athletic prowess and action-packed roles, he still falls short of what the role of *Shaktimaan* demands.
In an interview, Khanna stated, “Tiger Shroff is undoubtedly a talented actor, especially known for his stunts and martial arts. But when it comes to playing *Shaktimaan*, I feel he is still a child among children. *Shaktimaan* is not just about physical fitness or action skills; it’s about embodying a certain gravitas and depth that goes beyond mere acrobatics.” Khanna’s comments suggest that he believes *Shaktimaan* requires a more mature and authoritative presence, qualities he finds lacking in Shroff’s current screen persona.
The debate over casting has gained momentum as the anticipation for the reboot continues to grow. Fans of the original show have been both excited and anxious about how the new version will shape up. Many agree that finding the right actor to step into the role is crucial, given the profound impact *Shaktimaan* had on Indian pop culture during its heyday. The series was not just a superhero show but also carried strong moral messages, something Mukesh Khanna emphasized in his portrayal. This combination of heroism with a moral compass was integral to *Shaktimaan’s* charm, making it more than just an action series.
Khanna’s rejection of Tiger Shroff as a suitable candidate for *Shaktimaan* echoes his earlier concerns about casting younger actors who, according to him, may not have the necessary experience to bring a complex character like *Shaktimaan* to life. Khanna has been a vocal advocate for maintaining the essence and spirit of the original show, which, he feels, would be lost if an actor focused solely on physicality takes on the role. “There’s more to *Shaktimaan* than action sequences,” Khanna added. “It’s about a philosophical and spiritual journey. It’s about someone who has wisdom and the maturity to guide the younger generation. That is why I have reservations.”
While Tiger Shroff’s fans argue that his background in martial arts and familiarity with action-oriented films make him a perfect fit for a superhero role, others share Khanna’s concerns. The original *Shaktimaan* series had a unique charm that blended Indian mythology, spirituality, and moral lessons—elements that Khanna believes should be preserved in any reboot.
This isn’t the first time Khanna has voiced his concerns over the potential casting choices. When rumors about Ranveer Singh taking on the role surfaced, Khanna expressed doubts about his suitability, suggesting that the character required someone who could resonate with audiences on a deeper level, beyond just charisma and star power. These remarks indicate Khanna’s protective stance over the legacy of *Shaktimaan* and his desire for a respectful and accurate representation of the character.
Tiger Shroff has yet to publicly respond to Khanna’s comments, and neither have the producers of the planned *Shaktimaan* film addressed the matter. The project has been in development for some time, with fans eagerly awaiting more details about the direction the reboot will take. The original series, created and produced by Khanna, remains a nostalgic favorite, and its influence has spanned generations, making the stakes high for anyone stepping into the superhero’s shoes.
Despite Khanna’s reservations, the final casting decision will ultimately rest with the production team, who will have to balance the expectations of nostalgic fans with the need to appeal to a younger, contemporary audience. With superhero films enjoying immense popularity globally, there’s a clear intent to bring *Shaktimaan* back to the forefront as India’s very own superhero on a larger cinematic scale. However, the question of who can best embody the cultural significance and moral depth of *Shaktimaan* remains a contentious one.
This recent controversy highlights the challenges of reviving a beloved character in an era where superhero cinema has become synonymous with grand action sequences and visual spectacle. The legacy of *Shaktimaan* was built on a foundation of storytelling that emphasized ethical values and Indian traditions, something Mukesh Khanna seems determined to protect. His disapproval of actors who, in his view, lack the gravitas needed to play *Shaktimaan* reflects a broader concern about the dilution of classic characters in favor of commercial viability.
As the discussions continue, fans of the original show have taken to social media to voice their opinions. Many express support for Khanna’s perspective, agreeing that *Shaktimaan* requires an actor who can bring both physical and emotional weight to the role. Others, however, argue that a fresh face like Tiger Shroff could introduce the character to a new generation, blending old and new sensibilities to create a version of *Shaktimaan* that resonates in the modern era.
The debate over who should wear the iconic suit is far from over, and with the project still in its pre-production phase, casting announcements are expected to draw considerable attention. Mukesh Khanna’s influence and attachment to the character cannot be underestimated, and it remains to be seen whether the filmmakers will heed his advice or take a different direction altogether. For now, the only certainty is that the return of *Shaktimaan* has reignited passionate conversations about one of India’s most iconic superheroes, underscoring the deep connection audiences still feel towards a character who defined an era of Indian television.
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