Bollywood Star Akhtar Joins Star-Studded Cast of Beatles Cinematic Saga

Bollywood star Farhan Akhtar, renowned for his work as an actor, director, and producer in Indian cinema, is set to make his first major mark in Hollywood.

Sony Pictures recently confirmed Akhtar’s casting in The Beatles: A Four-Film Cinematic Event, directed by Oscar-winner Sam Mendes. The ambitious four-part series will explore the rise and evolution of the legendary British rock band. Akhtar will bring to life Pandit Ravi Shankar, the celebrated sitar virtuoso whose collaboration with The Beatles, particularly his influence on George Harrison, helped introduce Indian classical music and philosophy into Western pop, giving birth to Raga rock in the 1960s.

While Akhtar has previously appeared on international screens, including a cameo in the American series Ms. Marvel, this project marks his first significant Hollywood role. The announcement has been celebrated globally as a landmark moment for Indian representation in major international cinema.

The Beatles story will be told across four interlinked films, each centering on a different band member’s perspective. Filming is currently underway in the UK, with a worldwide theatrical release planned for April 2028.

The international ensemble cast also includes Paul Mescal as Paul McCartney, Joseph Quinn as George Harrison, Harris Dickinson as John Lennon, and Barry Keoghan as Ringo Starr, bringing the iconic musicians and their world vividly to life.