Mukesh Khanna Faces Backlash After Announcing Return as Shaktimaan

On Nov 12 2024 : Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, renowned for his role as the beloved Indian superhero Shaktimaan, has sparked a wave of online trolling following his announcement to reprise the iconic character. The 66-year-old actor donned the familiar red superhero suit and expressed his excitement about returning to the role that made him a household name in the late 1990s.

A Nostalgic Comeback

• Announcement Details: Mukesh Khanna confirmed his return as Shaktimaan during a media interaction, stating, “This is a costume within me… I am even happier than others about becoming Shaktimaan again.” His enthusiasm was palpable as he discussed the deep personal connection he feels with the character, which he first portrayed from 1997 to 2005.
• Cultural Significance: Khanna aims to reintroduce Shaktimaan’s values to today’s youth, asserting that “today’s generation is running blindly” and needs guidance. He hopes his work will resonate with a new audience by 2027.

Netizens React

• Trolling and Criticism: Despite Khanna’s excitement, many netizens expressed their disapproval on social media. Comments ranged from humorous jabs, calling him “Senior Citizen Shaktimaan,” to serious concerns about whether he should reprise the role at his age. Users urged him not to “ruin” the legacy of Shaktimaan.
• Mixed Feelings: While some fans are thrilled about the return of their childhood hero, others feel it’s time for a new generation to take over. The announcement comes amid speculation about a potential film adaptation featuring a younger actor, further fueling the debate among fans.

Image Source : IMDB

What are the key points Mukesh Khanna mentioned about his connection to the Shaktimaan character?

Mukesh Khanna, the actor renowned for portraying Shaktimaan, recently expressed his deep connection to the character as he prepares for its return. Here are the key points he highlighted:

Deep Personal Connection

• Khanna described Shaktimaan as a “costume within me,” emphasizing that the character resonates deeply with him personally. He believes that his portrayal comes from an intrinsic passion, stating, “I did well in Shaktimaan because it came from within me” .

Confidence in Acting

• He articulated that confidence is essential in acting, mentioning that he often forgets about the camera while performing. This immersion allows him to connect authentically with the role, making him feel even more excited about reprising Shaktimaan .

Duty to a New Generation

• Khanna views his return as a duty that began in 1997 and continued until 2005. He feels compelled to bring the character back for today’s youth, whom he believes are “running blindly.” He aims to provide them with guidance and a message through Shaktimaan, stating, “They have to be stopped and told to catch their breath” .

Anticipation of Impact

• He shared his hope that his work will reach audiences by 2027, suggesting that Shaktimaan’s return will offer valuable lessons and inspiration for contemporary viewers. He expressed a desire for the character to resonate with children today, reinforcing its relevance .

Khanna’s comments reflect both his personal attachment to Shaktimaan and his vision for its role in modern society, aiming to blend nostalgia with contemporary relevance.

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