Farhan Akhtar is set for his Hollywood acting debut, cast as legendary sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar in Sam Mendes’ four-part cinematic event on The Beatles, announced by Sony Pictures on February 12, 2026.
Project Details
The ambitious series comprises four standalone films, each from one Beatle’s viewpoint—Paul McCartney (Paul Mescal), John Lennon (Joseph Quinn), Ringo Starr (Barry Keoghan), and George Harrison—covering their rise to 1970 breakup, with filming underway for an April 2028 release.
Additional casting includes Lucy Boynton as Jane Asher, Morfydd Clark as Cynthia Lennon, and Harry Lawtey as Stuart Sutcliffe.
Role Significance
Akhtar portrays Ravi Shankar, whose 1960s friendship with George Harrison introduced the sitar to Western music via tracks like “Norwegian Wood,” bridging Indian classical and rock legacies.
This marks his biggest international role post a Ms. Marvel cameo, amid buzz over Don 3 back home.
Industry Buzz
Directed by Oscar-winner Mendes with scripts by Jez Butterworth and others, the films leverage full Beatles rights for authenticity.
Fans hail it as a cultural milestone for Indian talent on global cinema.
