Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, beloved for portraying Shaktimaan, India’s first superhero, has thrilled fans with news of the character’s return. In a recent interview with ANI, Khanna expressed his enthusiasm for revisiting this iconic role and emphasized his deep personal connection to the character that made him a household name.
Reflecting on what Shaktimaan means to him, Khanna explained, “This costume feels like a part of me. I believe Shaktimaan is within me, not just a role I played. When I put on that suit, it transforms me because it comes from within. Confidence is key in acting, and for Shaktimaan, I don’t even notice the camera—I become him. I’m as excited as the fans if not more, to step into this role once again.”
In a passionate conversation, he spoke about the importance of bringing back Shaktimaan for today’s youth, noting how much has changed since the show’s original run from 1997 to 2005. “I’m fulfilling a duty I began long ago,” he shared. “Today’s generation is rushing through life, often missing the bigger picture. They need a reminder to pause, reflect, and understand true values. Shaktimaan is here to help them reconnect and find direction.”
On November 10, Khanna teased fans with a poster and teaser of Shaktimaan’s return. In the short clip, Shaktimaan is seen soaring through the sky before landing at a school, where he sings about freedom and looks thoughtfully at photographs of freedom fighters like Chandrasekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, and Subhash Chandra Bose. The visual hints at a message rooted in patriotism and a call to action for the youth to remember India’s ideals.
Originally aired on Doordarshan in 1997, Shaktimaan became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless viewers nationwide. While Khanna has yet to reveal if the new project will be a film, television series, or web series, he has made one thing clear: Shaktimaan’s message of integrity and strength is needed now more than ever, and Khanna is ready to bring it to a new generation.
