Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, renowned for his iconic portrayal of ‘Shaktimaan’ on Indian television, has been vocal about his disapproval of Ranveer Singh being cast in the upcoming film adaptation of the beloved superhero show. Recently, the actor opened up about the reasons behind his resistance, revealing that it stemmed from Ranveer’s controversial nude photoshoot.
“Ranveer Singh came to convince me”
In a conversation with Bollywood Thikana, Mukesh Khanna explained, “Now people know that Ranveer Singh came to convince me to allow him to reprise the role of Shaktiman. I can’t hide it also because later people said that I lauded Ranveer and called him a terrific actor. News of Ranveer being confirmed to play Shaktiman started coming but I hadn’t agreed to it.”
Khanna further elaborated on why he wasn’t sold on Ranveer playing the titular superhero role, stating, “I also have a conflict with Sony, and I had put up a video clarifying that I haven’t approved Ranveer to play the role. The reason is that… Ranveer sat in front of me that day for three hours, but ultimately I had to tell him that what needed to be seen on his face wasn’t there. He looks playful, like someone who would trick others.”
Mukesh Khanna on Ranveer Singh’s nude photoshoot
Mukesh also expressed that his unease with Ranveer began after the actor’s nude photoshoot for Paper Magazine in 2022. He criticised both Ranveer and his wife, actress Deepika Padukone, for their lack of objection to the photoshoot. Mukesh said, “That photo shoot was the start of my aversion towards him. However, Ranveer told me he didn’t actually do it. He said he was wearing underwear and had fired his promotional team.”
While Mukesh initially believed Ranveer’s explanation, he later recalled the actor’s public statement about being comfortable with the shoot. Mukesh remarked, “I recall giving a statement, ‘You may be comfortable, but we aren’t.’ His wife was also comfortable, according to a statement they gave to the media. She also didn’t object. Every wife would object. Don’t be so advanced.”
About Ranveer’s controversial photoshoot
The controversial photoshoot, which saw Ranveer posing nude on a carpet, was reminiscent of a famous shoot by 1970s American actor Burt Reynolds. Following its release, the Mumbai Police filed a case against Ranveer under several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 292, 293, and 509, as well as the IT Act, accusing him of offending the sentiments of women.
