Acclaimed actor and filmmaker Aamir Khan has confirmed that production on his long-anticipated Mahabharat project will begin in August 2025. He described the film adaptation of this epic Hindu poem as an extensive franchise, indicating the story’s depth and scale will require a series of films to be told comprehensively. Citing the sensitive and profound nature of Mahabharat, Aamir emphasized that the narrative is deeply personal to him, fueling his determination to bring it to the screen.
“Well, I’m starting work on it in the month of August. It will be a series of films. It’ll be back to back. Because you can’t tell the Mahabharat in just one film. And you know, the Mahabharat is very dangerous. It’s again a story which is in my blood. No one can do anything about it. I need to tell it. So I’m starting work on it.”
— Aamir Khan, Actor and Filmmaker
An Entirely New Cast to Portray Iconic Characters
Aamir Khan has revealed his intent to cast entirely new faces in the project, refusing to choose known actors to portray the legendary characters of Mahabharat. He considers the story’s figures as stars themselves, wanting the audience to connect with the characters devoid of preexisting associations to contemporary actors. This approach reflects a conscious effort to keep the narrative pure and focused on the timeless roles rather than celebrity appeal.
“I don’t plan to take any known faces in the film. For me, the characters are the stars. I want unknown faces. There’ll be entirely new cast for it, is what I’m thinking.”
— Aamir Khan, Actor and Filmmaker
Deep Inspiration from Lord Krishna’s Character
Throughout various discussions about this dream project, Aamir Khan has frequently mentioned his admiration for the character of Lord Krishna in the Mahabharat. At the India@2047 Summit hosted by ABP Live, he shared his profound connection and inspiration drawn from Krishna, though he refrained from confirming whether he would portray the deity himself. Given the scale of the project and the complexity involved, Aamir preferred to maintain discretion on specific casting choices at this early stage.
“Actually… mujhe Krishna ka kirdaar bohot hi prabhavit karta hai…I’m very inspired by him. So that’s a character I really love. Kyunki yeh bohot bada project hai, toh main kuch badi cheezein bolna nahi cha raha hoon.”
— Aamir Khan, Actor and Filmmaker
Mahabharat to Be Developed as a Cinematic Franchise
The decision to adapt Mahabharat as a multi-film series highlights Aamir Khan’s commitment to capturing the epic’s vast narrative and emotional layers. Recognized as the longest epic poem, Mahabharat encompasses generations of tales rich in mythology, philosophy, and drama. This ambitious plan reflects Aamir’s understanding that a single film could not sufficiently portray the depth or resonance of the classic story, necessitating multiple back-to-back productions to do justice to it.
Such a methodology also implies a long-term vision for the franchise, potentially setting new benchmarks in Indian cinema for mythological storytelling, blending traditional narratives with contemporary filmmaking techniques.
Challenges of Adapting a Revered Epic
Aamir Khan has openly acknowledged the risks involved in working with a story as culturally and emotionally significant as the Mahabharat. Labeling the project as “dangerous,” he underscored the sensitivities tied to public sentiment and the responsibility that comes with retelling such a sacred tale. The epic’s layered characters and philosophical depth make it a formidable challenge, but also an irresistible calling for the filmmaker, whose personal connection to the story drives his resolve.
Impact of Casting New Talent on Audience Reception
Choosing an entirely new cast is a bold creative choice that shapes expectations around the project’s reception. By introducing unknown actors, Aamir Khan aims to immerse audiences in the characters rather than star personas, potentially allowing for more authentic and unbiased engagement with the story. This casting policy may also open doors for fresh talent to rise, reshaping future patterns of celebrity and storytelling in Indian cinema.
Anticipated Production Scale and Timeline
With production slated to begin in August 2025, Aamir Khan’s Mahabharat franchise is expected to commence intensive filming and development shortly. The schedule of back-to-back films suggests an extended production phase spanning several years. This timeline positions the project as one of the most significant undertakings in Bollywood, demanding meticulous planning, substantial resources, and a committed creative team to realize Aamir’s vision.
Future Prospects and Audience Expectations
As anticipation builds, Aamir Khan’s Mahabharat adaptation stands poised to become a landmark production in Indian cinema, blending mythological significance with cinematic innovation. The filmmaker’s dedication to respecting the source material while introducing fresh talent sets a precedent for future epics. Audiences and critics alike will watch closely as this ambitious reimagining unfolds, eager to see how the timeless tale is given new life on the big screen.
