We had earlier reported that actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar will be seen playing sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar in the much-anticipated Beatles biopic series. Recently, Farhan spoke about taking up the project, and its many challenges.
In an official statement, he said, “It is very important that I get this absolutely right. Playing Pandit Ravi Shankar is a huge responsibility, towards him, his family and his devotees. I want to do everything in my power to ensure it comes out right.” Farhan Akhtar also shared that the journey of getting into his shoes is both challenging and deeply humbling, demanding not just emotional depth but also technical mastery.
According to reports, Farhan Akhtar is planning to spend time with Anoushka Shankar, renowned sitarist and daughter of Pandit Ravi Shankar, hoping to gain personal insights into the man, insights that go beyond public knowledge.
The actor has also reportedly begun learning Sitar from scratch to understand the nuances of the instrument, and embody Ravi Shankar’s artistry with authenticity.
Directed by Sam Mendes, the four separate films, collectively called The Beatles - A Four-Film Cinematic Event, will intersect and chronicle the band's incredible journey from England to the heart of the international music scene, one from the perspective of each Beatles member, all leading up to its 1970 breakup.
Paul Mescal, Barry Keoghan, Joseph Quinn, and Harris Dickinson are signed to play the lead roles. Other cast members include Saiorse Ronan, Mia McKenna-Bruce, Anna Sawai, and Aimee Lou Wood, James Nortonm Harry Lloyd, Harry Lawtey, Lucy Boynton, and Morfydd Clark.
