The much-anticipated adaptation of the classic superhero saga, Shaktimaan, featuring Ranveer Singh as the lead, has faced unexpected delays, leaving fans eager for answers. Originally announced in January 2025, the big-screen reboot was to be spearheaded by acclaimed filmmaker and actor Basil Joseph, with Wamiqa Gabbi joining as the leading lady. Production was set to begin by May 2025, targeting a festive Diwali 2026 release date. Despite these promising details, there have been no further official updates regarding the film’s progress, prompting widespread speculation about the reasons behind the silence.
Basil Joseph, best known for his work on the celebrated film Minnal Murali, had confirmed his involvement in bringing Ranveer Singh’s Shaktimaan project to life. The director’s transition from Malayalam cinema to Bollywood raised expectations, with fans hoping to see the iconic superhero reinvented for a new generation. However, following the initial flurry of excitement, Basil admitted that his writing process for Shaktimaan was being challenged by an increasing number of acting commitments, making it difficult to focus exclusively on his directorial vision.
During promotional interviews for his recent film Maranamass, Basil Joseph shed light on some of the obstacles that may have contributed to the delay of the Ranveer Singh Shaktimaan movie. He drew attention to the differences between the Malayalam film industry and its larger counterparts, explaining that the “unnecessary complications” present in other industries often hinder creative projects. Addressing these challenges, Basil noted,
“The Malayalam film industry operates like a cottage industry and is not corporatized like the other major movie industries. So, when it comes to experimenting with genres like sci-fi and zombies like in Vala, all it needs is for a few people to get together and just do it. You don’t have to negotiate contracts, or have multiple discussions between stakeholders, etc.; you don’t encounter unnecessary complications.”
Basil further elaborated that the collaborative and streamlined nature of Malayalam cinema allows for rapid innovation, in contrast to the bureaucratic hurdles he has faced elsewhere.
“In the process, it takes forever to greenlight a project. I believe, Malayalam cinema has the most potential as far as experimentation goes. It is a lot easier to pull off a film like Vala in Malayalam than anywhere else.”
These remarks have fueled speculation that similar industry complications may be delaying the Ranveer Singh Shaktimaan movie, despite the initial readiness of the cast and creative team.
The continued absence of concrete updates regarding the Ranveer Singh Shaktimaan movie has created a sense of urgency and frustration among fans, who are eager to see one of Bollywood’s most dynamic talents bring a beloved superhero to life. The delay highlights the growing challenges faced when ambitious creative projects transition between different film industries, each governed by its own set of operational norms. As the wait stretches on, the excitement surrounding Ranveer Singh’s association with Shaktimaan remains undiminished, while questions about the project’s future persist. Observers are now watching closely for the next official announcement, hopeful that the obstacles outlined by Basil Joseph can be overcome, paving the way for this high-profile superhero adventure to move forward.
