The age-old debate between South Indian cinema and Bollywood has often sparked discussions and comparisons. While these two industries have distinct styles and audiences, they have also occasionally intersected in intriguing ways. Now, another such encounter is on the horizon, as two of the biggest superstars in Indian cinema, Mahesh Babu and Shah Rukh Khan, prepare to face off indirectly in Disney’s upcoming film, Mufasa: The Lion King.
Although Mahesh Babu and Shah Rukh Khan have never directly competed at the box office, they will now be vying for audiences’ attention in the same film. Both actors will be lending their voices to the iconic character of Mufasa, but in their respective regional languages. Mahesh Babu will voice Mufasa in the Telugu version, while Shah Rukh Khan will take on the same role in the Hindi version.
Directed by Barry Jenkins, Mufasa: The Lion King is set for a worldwide release on December 20, 2024, in multiple languages. The Telugu version will also feature the iconic voices of Brahmanandam and Ali as Pumbaa and Timon, respectively. Adding to the excitement, Shah Rukh Khan’s sons, Aryan Khan and AbRam Khan, will also be part of the Hindi version, voicing Simba and the younger Mufasa, respectively. AbRam’s debut in voice acting adds an extra layer of intrigue to the project.
As fans eagerly await the release of Mufasa: The Lion King, it will be interesting to see how audiences in different regions respond to the performances of Mahesh Babu and Shah Rukh Khan. This unusual clash of titans promises to be a treat for cinema lovers across the country.
