New season of 'Shaktimaan' will show origin of superhero

Popular superhero of the 90s “Shaktimaan” is all set to return to TV and actor Mukesh Khanna says the new season will chronicle how the character acquired superhuman powers. Khanna essayed the roles of Shaktimaan and his alter ego Pandit Gangadhar Vidyadhar Mayadhar Omkarnath Shastri on the iconic series.

The actor says the new season will show childhood of the much-loved hero and will give insights about his journey.

“The new season will begin from where the previous ended. But it will also show the childhood of Shaktimaan. How he becomes a superhero through intense training from his seven gurus, and the entire process,” Khanna told PTI.

“I wanted to show the character’s flashback last time, but that would have taken the character of Shaktimaan off-screen for a couple of episodes, which the producers didn’t agree to. But this time we are going to do it. We have some kids in mind (for the role), and a solid idea how to go about the show,” he said.

Khanna, who will be reprising the role and has lost nearly eight kgs to get into shape, says most of the popular characters from the show, such as Geeta Vishwas, Tamraj Kilvish and Dr Jaikal, will also be back. Currently, the 58-year-old actor is in talks with Doordarshan to air the new season.

“I am in talks with DD, to air it every day from 6-6.30 PM. If I get that slot I will bring it there. Talks are on so let’s see. I would also urge other mainstream channels like Colors, Sony, and others to air the show via satellite.  It will have a bigger reach,” he said.

Khanna feels this is the best time to come back with a show like “Shaktimaan” as the youth are becoming materialistic today.

“’Shaktimaan’ was successful because it was made with honesty. Today the youth are interested in the materialistic world and are kind of lost. So this is the perfect time to bring this show,” he added.