On Friday, 8th November 2024, Mukesh Khanna, the owner of Bheeshm International released a teaser video on YouTube announcing the return of Shaktimaan. The teaser has featured scenes from the old series and hinted the return of the character.
Shaktimaan was an Indian Hindi-language superhero television show. It was created by Mukesh Khanna. It aired on DD National from 13th September 1997 to 27th March 2005. Mukesh starred as the superhero Shaktimaan in the television series.
Shaktimaan was depicted as a man who had attained superhuman powers through meditation and five elements of nature including space, earth, air, fire and water. It was one of India’s most beloved superhero shows. This series had a total of 450 episodes. The series was made available to stream on Amazon Prime Video in 2019.
Why has Mukesh Khanna returned as Shaktimaan?
In an interview, Mukesh talked about his bond with the character of Shaktimaan and said, “This is a costume within me. Personally, I feel this costume has come from within. I performed well as Shaktimaan because the character comes from within me. Acting is all about confidence. When I’m shooting, I forget about the camera. I am even happier than others to become Shaktimaan again.”
He then stated the reason to make a comeback as Shaktimaan and said, “I am fulfilling a duty I began in 1997, which continued until 2005. My work should reach the public again by 2027 because today’s generation is running blindly. They need to be told to pause and catch their breath.”
He has also shared a post in his Instagram handle, announcing his comeback as Shaktimaan. The post reads, “It’s Time For HIM to RETURN. Our First Indian SUPER TEACHER- SUPER HERO. YES! As Darkness and Evil prevails over Children of Today. It’s time for him to return. He returns with a Message. He returns with a Teaching. For today’s generation. Welcome Him. With both hands! Watch now teaser only on Bheeshm International YouTube channel.”
However, audience has given mixed reactions regarding this announcement. Some users have shown disappointment. “It’s time to move on. He could have done a cameo or someone who advised the new shaktiman to time so that his ego can be satisfied too,” a user wrote.
One of the users commented, “This guy has lost it!!!! Shaktimaan was a fond memory for many of us, now it is on track to turn into a nightmare!”