New Delhi | Aug 17, 2025 : For many Indians who grew up in the late 1990s, Shaktimaan was more than just a television show — it was a cultural milestone. Running on Doordarshan from 1997 to 2005, the superhero series made Mukesh Khanna a household name and defined the childhood of an entire generation. Now, with a big-screen adaptation of the classic in development, the debate over who should play the iconic superhero is heating up.

According to reports, the studio behind the project is considering Ranveer Singh for the titular role. However, Mukesh Khanna, the original Shaktimaan, has openly expressed his disapproval. Speaking to Filmygyan, Khanna admitted that while Ranveer is a talented and energetic actor, he does not see him as the right fit.

“You like Ranveer Singh, and I like him too. We’ve even sat and talked for three hours. He has a lot of energy. But I told him to his face — you can play Tamraj Kilvish (the villain). His face has a mischievous positivity. But Shaktimaan requires maturity,” Khanna said.

He further emphasized that casting a superhero is not just about acting skills but also about the actor’s public image. “For Shaktimaan, I need not only an actor but also the right face. If an actor’s real-life image is problematic, it affects how the character is seen. Many people told me, ‘Sir, don’t let this nashedi (druggie) become Shaktimaan — it will ruin our childhood memories,’” Khanna added.

His remarks have sparked debate among fans — with some agreeing that the legacy must be protected, while others believe Ranveer Singh could bring fresh energy to the role.