"Even if I denied him for Shaktimaan…" Mukesh Khanna hails Ranveer Singh’s performance in Dhurandhar

Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has praised Ranveer Singh for his performance in the recently released spy action thriller Dhurandhar. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film stars Ranveer Singh in the lead and features Akshaye Khanna, Arjun Rampal, Sara Arjun, R. Madhavan, and Sanjay Dutt in supporting roles. Since its release, Dhurandhar has received appreciation from critics, fans, and industry insiders alike.

Mukesh Khanna, known for his iconic role as Shaktimaan, shared his thoughts in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. He said, "I would like to praise this film's hero Ranveer Singh. Now you will cross question me by saying that you have disapproved him for the role of Shaktimaan. However, even if I have denied him, he remains one of the best actors. I have always maintained this stance. His infectious energy and courage are visible in the film."

He further noted that Ranveer’s “brooding” eyes suited the character of an Indian spy navigating life in Pakistan, gradually becoming a gang member while gaining sympathy and saving a leader’s son.

Mukesh Khanna had previously opposed casting Ranveer Singh as Shaktimaan, explaining, "If you make him Shaktimaan, people may enjoy it because he makes you dance, but the role needs someone mature enough." Despite this earlier decision, he has now recognised Singh’s dedication and skill in portraying a complex character in Dhurandhar.

On the business front, Dhurandhar continues to perform strongly at the box office. The film has reportedly collected around Rs 492 crore so far and is expected to enter the Rs 500 crore net club by its seventeenth day. Trade analysts suggest that it could eventually cross Rs 700 crore net domestically, with the potential to surpass Pushpa 2 (Hindi) as the highest-grossing Hindi film in India.

With both audience and industry praise mounting, Dhurandhar remains a significant highlight of 2025, and Mukesh Khanna’s comments underline Ranveer Singh’s growth and versatility as an actor in challenging roles.