Entertainment
Salman Khan as Karna? Bollywood Buzz Grows as Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra Plans Epic Mythological Saga
Reports suggest Salman Khan has been approached for the lead role in a two-part film based on Karna, but one big question remains… how will audiences compare him with Prabhas?
The world of Bollywood may soon witness one of its most ambitious mythological projects yet. According to recent media reports, superstar Salman Khan has been approached to play the legendary warrior Karna in a grand mythological film being developed by acclaimed filmmaker Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra.
The proposed project, reportedly backed by Excel Entertainment, is said to be envisioned as a two-part cinematic saga exploring the life and legacy of one of the most complex and revered characters from the Mahabharata.
Sources close to the development claim that Salman Khan has reacted positively to the narration, and preliminary discussions between the actor and the filmmakers are ongoing. However, the project remains in its early stages, and no official confirmation or signed agreement has been announced so far.
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A Dream Project in the Making
Known for delivering visually rich and emotionally compelling films, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra is reportedly keen on bringing Karna’s story to the big screen on a scale never seen before. The character of Karna, celebrated for his bravery, loyalty, generosity and tragic destiny, has long fascinated storytellers and audiences alike.
If the project moves ahead as planned, production is expected to begin sometime in mid-2027. Given the scale of the film and the significance of its central character, the makers are believed to be carefully evaluating every aspect before making an official announcement.
The Prabhas Factor Could Spark Debate
One major talking point surrounding the reported casting is the inevitable comparison with Prabhas, who appeared as Karna in the blockbuster sci-fi epic Kalki 2898 AD.

Prabhas’s portrayal received appreciation from audiences, and industry observers believe comparisons could intensify if the character receives an expanded role in the upcoming sequel, often referred to as Kalki 2.
Should Salman Khan step into the same legendary role, fans are likely to engage in intense debates over the different interpretations of Karna. While Salman brings unmatched star power and a loyal fan base, Prabhas has already established a visual connection with the character in a modern cinematic universe.
A New Chapter for Salman Khan?
For Salman Khan, the role could mark a significant departure from his recent commercial entertainers. Portraying Karna would require emotional depth, physical transformation and a nuanced understanding of one of Indian mythology’s most layered heroes.
The actor has experimented with diverse characters throughout his career, but a full-fledged mythological epic would represent a fresh challenge and potentially open a new chapter in his filmography.
As of now, fans will have to wait for an official statement from the makers. Until then, the possibility of Salman Khan wielding Karna’s legendary bow on the big screen remains one of Bollywood’s most intriguing rumours.
Whether the superstar ultimately signs the project or not, the speculation has already generated significant excitement among movie lovers across the country.
