Most actors are playing superheros these days. But Salman Khan might just essay the role of the original superhero Hanuman. It seems Hanuman will take over from Spiderman, Superman, Batman, and of course, G.One.
Reportedly, Salman has been approached to play Hanuman in the modern version of the epic Ramayana that will be set in New York. The story is based on the rebirth of Hanuman.
Initially, Aamir Khan was approached for the role, but things did not work out. We assume Aamir has been keeping extremely busy with his TV show and upcoming films.
Apparently, Shilpa Shetty and Hollywood star Keanu Reeves will play Rama and Seeta, and Gary Oldman (um, Gary's not a Hollywood star?!) will essay (what is the obsession with this word rme) the role of Raavan.
If Salman gives his nod for the film, this would definitely be the most unique and different movie done by Sallu (fan nickname for Salman Khan).
While he has successfully built his image of an 'action hero' from being the romantic chocolate boy (lolwut), playing a superhero is something Salman hasn't done till yet. (ESL fail on whomever wrote this.)
Salman has also been approached to play Iron Man in the Hindi remake of the film The Avengers.
However, not everyone in the Hindu community, both in India and the US, are excited about the upcoming film.
Hindu leaders in America are concerned Keanu's reported portrayal of the incarnation of Lord Vishnu in a new movie will be another awful Hollywood depiction of their religion, belief system and gods."Top Hindus are still reeling from the way Mike Myers poked fun at their religion in The Love Guru, and they fear Reeves' new film Hanuman, in which he'll play Rama, will be another misinformed film about Hinduism.
Hindu statesman Rajan Zed tells WENN, "Hindus are concerned. If the makers of this proposed movie intend to base the storyline on the epic Ramayana and make references to it or portray Hindu gods/goddesses in the movie, we would urge the makers to stay true to the story and the spirit of the timeless epic and other Hindu scriptures."
For those of you who don't know, Ramayana is an ancient Sanskrit epic about the life and journey of Rama, an avatar of Vishnu. It's not just a story, it's an insanely important part of Hindu history, philosophy, religion, etc. It's not a joke. (Read more about Ramayana at Wikipedia.) I think if it's done tastefully, it could be amazing, and I would love to see more Hindu influence in the Western world. ETA: Thank you to all of the Hindu ONTDers who are leaving comments -- it's very interesting to read your feelings and thoughts. I have read a shortened (and English translated) version of the Ramayana, and I grew up with several Hindu friends, but to me it's just brilliant literature as I am an Anglo-American Christian.
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