Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, known for his iconic role as Shaktimaan, has stirred controversy after expressing his disapproval of Ranveer Singh being cast in a reboot of the popular superhero series. Khanna believes that none of the current generation of actors, including Akshay Kumar and Aamir Khan, possess the “innocence and honesty” required to portray the legendary superhero. His comments have sparked a heated debate among fans and critics, as they weigh in on whether modern actors can capture the essence of Shaktimaan.

During his recent appearance Mukesh said, “Now people know that Ranveer Singh came to convince me for allowing 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. 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 and the reason is that…Ranveer sat in front of me that day for 3 hours but ultimately I had to tell him that what needs to be seen on his face wasn’t there. He looks playful, like someone who would trick others.”

When the interviewer pointed out that Ranveer Singh has also excelled in serious roles, Mukesh Khanna acknowledged Ranveer’s skill and dedication to his craft. However, he remained firm in his stance that Ranveer isn’t the right fit to play Shaktimaan. “In this industry, it’s the producer who casts an actor, not the other way around,” Mukesh said.

Speaking about Ranveer Singh’s controversial naked photoshoot, Mukesh Khanna shared how his aversion toward the Gully Boy actor began with that incident. He said, “That photoshoot 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. I believed him, but later, when I looked back, I remembered his statement to the media, where he said he was comfortable with it. I recall giving a statement, ‘You may be comfortable, but we aren’t.’”

He added, “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.”

READ MORE: After Bashing Ranveer Singh, Mukesh Khanna Says Shah Rukh Khan Or Any Bollywood Star Cannot Become Shaktimaan