Director Basil Joseph has put an end to widespread speculation linking him to a superhero project titled Shaktimaan starring Telugu actor Allu Arjun. Addressing the rumours, the Minnal Murali director clarified that there is no truth to reports suggesting a collaboration with Allu Arjun for a film based on the iconic 1990s TV character.
“There is no such project. The Shaktimaan film is being developed with Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh,” Basil Joseph confirmed in a statement, dismissing claims of a partnership with Allu Arjun. The clarification comes amid reports that a big-budget adaptation of Shaktimaan was in the works with the Telugu star in the lead.
Plans for a cinematic revival of Shaktimaan have been ongoing in Hindi cinema, with Ranveer Singh long speculated to headline the project. Joseph’s latest remarks reaffirm that the film remains firmly tied to Bollywood and is not part of any South Indian collaboration.
Meanwhile, Allu Arjun, fresh from the massive success of Pushpa 2: The Rule, is currently lining up future projects. He is expected to team up with director Atlee for a sci-fi film backed by Sun Pictures. The film reportedly revolves around themes of parallel worlds and reincarnation, with Deepika Padukone likely to play the female lead.
Though discussions between Allu Arjun and Basil Joseph may be underway for another venture, it has been confirmed that the project will not be Shaktimaan.