Mukesh Khanna Accuses Kalki 2898 AD Makers Of Twisting Mahabharat

Mukesh Khanna accuses Kalki 2898 AD makers of twisting Mahabharat. Mukesh Khanna Takes Aim at "Kalki 2898 AD" for Altering Mahabharata's Narrative.

Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, best known for his portrayal of Bhishma in BR Chopra's iconic "Mahabharat" television series, has expressed his disappointment with the film "Kalki 2898 AD," which draws heavily on the Hindu epic. In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Khanna, while praising the film's production values, criticizes the filmmakers for taking liberties with the Mahabharata's storyline, finding it "offensive."

Khanna specifically points out two instances where the film deviates from the epic:

Ashwatthama's "Mani": Khanna states that in the original Mahabharata, it was Draupadi, not Krishna, who ordered the removal of Ashwatthama's "mani" after he killed her five children. He argues that the filmmakers' alteration of this pivotal moment is disrespectful to the original narrative.

Krishna's Plea to Ashwatthama: Khanna expresses disbelief at the film's depiction of Krishna asking Ashwatthama for protection in the future. He emphasizes Krishna's immense power and argues that such a request would be out of character for the divine figure.

Khanna believes these changes will offend Hindu viewers, comparing the situation to the backlash against "Adipurush." He calls for a government-appointed committee to review and approve mythological projects at the script stage, ensuring adherence to religious traditions.

Khanna further criticizes the film's pacing, finding the first half "slow" and designed for Western audiences, "People are more intelligent than us over there," he remarks. However, he acknowledges the film's impressive scope, effects, and performances, awarding it 100 points out of 100 for those aspects.

"Kalki 2898 AD" has achieved remarkable success, grossing over ₹700 crore worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing Indian film of the year. This latest critique from Mukesh Khanna, however, raises questions about the film's interpretation of the Mahabharata and its potential to alienate a significant portion of its audience.