Grand Indian cinema megastar Sanjay Leela Bhansali has once again created a stir at the international level! His iconic song “Malhari” from Bajirao Mastani has made its way into the Marvel Universe, recreating the cinematic magic in What If…. Season 3.
In the second episode of the animated series, Kumail Nanjiani returns as Kingo, the Bollywood-superstar-turned-superhero from Marvel’s Eternals. This time, Kingo dances to the electrifying tunes of “Malhari” in a dazzling sequence that blends Marvel’s epic storytelling with Bhansali’s majestic musical grandeur. Originally presented by Ranveer Singh in the 2015 Bollywood hit, the entertainment maintains the high-energy festivities while adding a superheroic twist.
Indian Marvel fans were very happy to see this cultural crossover. The animation features Kingo leading a dynamic, Bollywood-style dance routine with complex choreography and vibrant visuals. The sequence was praised for remaining authentic to the spirit of the original song while seamlessly integrating into the Marvel narrative.
watch the video:
Bhansali’s Bajirao Mastani has been adapted into Marvel’s “What If…?” Rebuilt in. season 3 pic.twitter.com/dZo5uKR9r5– Alena (@alena_112000) 24 December 2024
Marvel’s What If…? Cultural fusion has been attempted before, but the inclusion of “Malhari” is an extraordinary moment, representing Indian cinema on the global stage. For many fans, it was a proud moment of representation and a celebration of Bollywood’s universal appeal.
Adding to the excitement, fans are also eagerly waiting for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s upcoming magnum opus, Love and War. The film, starring the powerhouse trio of Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal, promises to be another great cinematic experience. Set to release on March 20, 2026, the collaboration is already generating massive buzz.
With Bollywood making its mark in Hollywood and Bhansali enthralling the audiences, the union of these two cinematic worlds seems like a match made in heaven.