Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has once again stirred up nostalgia with his recent teaser for the return of Shaktimaan, the iconic TV superhero he portrayed in the late 90s. However, the reception hasn’t been as enthusiastic as expected, with many on Reddit expressing skepticism about the show’s potential to resonate with today’s youth.
Khanna took to Instagram on Monday to announce the return of Shaktimaan, sharing a teaser that harked back to the early 2000s. The video shows the superhero flying into a school while singing a patriotic song, honoring freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh and Subhash Chandra Bose. Along with the teaser, Khanna wrote:
“It’s time for HIM to RETURN. Our first Indian SUPER TEACHER—SUPER HERO. YES! As darkness and evil prevail over today’s children… it’s time for him to return. He returns with a message. He returns with a teaching. For today’s generation. Welcome him with open arms.”
Reddit Reacts: ‘Not a Hit with the New Generation’
The teaser has sparked mixed reactions, with many Reddit users suggesting that the show’s nostalgic appeal might not be enough to capture the interest of today’s audience. One user remarked, “It’s not the 90s anymore. Today’s kids don’t care about Shaktimaan. They’ll watch an episode for nostalgia, but that’s it.” Another commented, “Mukesh Khanna needs to realize that the TV landscape has changed drastically. The market is more fragmented now, and the old TV habits have vanished.”
Further criticisms included concerns about the show’s outdated production quality, with one person stating, “The graphics look like they were made in the ’60s. This nostalgia trip won’t work anymore.”
A Missed Opportunity with Ranveer Singh?
Some users also reminisced about the shelved Shaktimaan movie project, which actor Ranveer Singh had reportedly begged Khanna to allow him to create. “It would’ve been better if Ranveer had made the movie,” said one user. “The VFX here look terrible, and I doubt the nostalgia will help.” Another user added, “Mukesh Khanna is sitting on a goldmine but refuses to let others take it forward. This move might be doomed.”
Shaktimaan: A TV Legend
Originally airing on Doordarshan in 1997, Shaktimaan became one of India’s most beloved superhero shows, running for over 450 episodes. For millions of fans, it remains a cherished part of their childhood. Mukesh Khanna, reflecting on his deep connection to the character, expressed his excitement about reprising the role. “This costume has always been within me,” he shared with ANI. “Acting is all about confidence, and I’m excited to bring Shaktimaan back for a new generation.”
Khanna also spoke about his dedication to continuing the legacy of the show, saying, “This is my duty that started in 1997 and went on until 2005. My work should reach the public in 2027 because today’s youth needs guidance and direction.”
But with the internet divided, the big question remains—will Shaktimaan’s return be able to captivate the younger generation, or will it be nothing more than a nostalgic blip in the modern entertainment landscape?
