
Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, best known for his role as Shaktimaan, recently addressed the long-standing criticism that he had been labeled an “Amitabh Bachchan copycat” early in his career. On October 1, 2024, Khanna opened up in an interview about how the label affected him but also how he eventually overcame it. Khanna said that while Amitabh Bachchan is a towering figure in Indian cinema, he doesn’t have the power to hinder anyone’s career.
Khanna reflected on his early days in Bollywood, where the shadow of Bachchan loomed large over many aspiring actors. However, Khanna emphasized that he carved his own path, especially through his iconic roles in television, which cemented his legacy. His remark, “Amit ji kaun hain jo career ko rok sakte?” (Who is Amitabh to stop anyone’s career?) caught attention, as it highlighted Khanna’s confidence and determination.
The interview comes at a time when Khanna is making a resurgence in the entertainment world, and his comments have sparked discussions on how Bollywood’s superstar culture has impacted generations of actors. Despite early comparisons to Bachchan, Mukesh Khanna has built a career that stands on its own merit.