Kailash Kher, Shaan and Arya Babbar join the mythological musical; grand production blends devotion with the energy of a Broadway-style live performance
Mumbai.
Singers Kailash Kher and Shaan, along with actor Arya Babbar, are set to bring the Broadway-style musical show ‘Mahabali’ to audiences on the occasion of Dussehra. The production will retell the Ramayana from the perspective of Lord Hanuman, presenting the epic through a combination of live theatre, music and mythology.
Produced by experienced producers Randhir Ranjan Roy and Abhishek Narayan, the show aims to present the Indian mythological epic on a larger, global stage.
The soundtrack has been created with the voices and music of Kailash Kher and Shaan. According to the makers, the music combines ancient mantras and powerful rhythms with the dynamic presentation associated with Broadway-style productions.
Focus on Hanuman’s devotion and humility
Rather than simply retelling the familiar story, ‘Mahabali’ seeks to explore the emotional and spiritual dimensions of Lord Hanuman.
The production portrays Hanuman not only as a divine warrior possessing extraordinary cosmic strength, but also as a symbol of humility and devotion. The story highlights how he dedicated his victories to Lord Ram.
The central theme of the production is that true greatness lies not in pride but in devotion, a message that the makers believe continues to inspire generations.
Shaan and Kailash Kher on the musical experience
Shaan said the music of ‘Mahabali’ has been created to evoke deep devotion while retaining the spectacular rhythm and energy of a Broadway-style production. He added that each song reflects different emotional aspects of Hanuman’s journey.
Kailash Kher said the soundtrack combines ancient mantras with powerful beats to create music that is intended not only to entertain audiences but also to evoke remembrance and devotion towards the divine.
Arya Babbar to play Ravana
Actor Arya Babbar will portray Ravana in the production. He said playing Ravana in a story centred on Lord Hanuman brings a different dimension to the performance and that the live presentation will offer audiences a fresh experience.
The cast includes Ankit Mohan as Lord Hanuman, Arya Babbar as Ravana, Sanand Verma as Vistaarvaachi and Pankaj Berry as Kaal Drishti. Mukul Nag and Aadesh Bharadwaj will also appear in important roles.
Ankit Mohan calls Hanuman’s role a major challenge
Ankit Mohan said portraying a character as emotionally complex and physically powerful as Lord Hanuman on a Broadway-style live stage is both a major honour and a significant challenge for him.
According to him, the production aims to move beyond conventional portrayals and showcase both Hanuman’s immense strength and his deep, unwavering humility.
