Mukesh Khanna Warns Against Treating Ramayana Like Fantasy Spectacle

Mukesh Khanna, best known for his portrayal of Shaktimaan, has raised concerns about the approach being taken toward adapting religious narratives for cinema. Speaking about an upcoming Ranbir Kapoor project, Khanna expressed apprehension that filmmakers may be prioritizing large-scale visual effects over the sanctity of source material.

Khanna cautioned against applying the cinematic template of fantasy epics to revered Hindu scriptures. "Just because modern technology allows you to create towering demons and impress audiences with visual grandeur doesn't mean you should apply that approach to the Ramayana," he suggested, drawing a distinction between original fantasy narratives like Baahubali and adaptations of classical texts.

The actor's remarks reflect an ongoing debate within Indian cinema about how to balance contemporary filmmaking techniques with cultural sensitivity when adapting religious and mythological content. Several filmmakers in recent years have attempted to bring epic narratives to screen with unprecedented production values, raising questions about authenticity and artistic interpretation.

Khanna's concerns appear rooted in a broader anxiety about whether commercial pressures and technical capabilities might overshadow the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of ancient texts when brought to the modern screen.