New Delhi: The buzz around Ranbir Kapoor’s upcoming magnum opus “Ramayana” has reached a fever pitch, particularly after the release of Kapoor’s first look as Lord Ram. The anticipation surrounding the project has been building steadily, and casting director Mukesh Chhabra’s recent revelations have only added to the excitement.
In an insightful conversation with Ranveer Allahbadia on his popular show, Mukesh Chhabra shed light on the film’s meticulous casting process. According to Chhabra, Nitesh Tiwari, the film’s director, had zeroed in on Ranbir Kapoor for the role of Lord Ram early in the casting process. “Bhai had decided to cast Ranbir very early in the process, and once you watch the film, you’ll see why it’s such apt casting. I think the actors I’ve worked with the most in my career are Ranbir and Rajkummar Rao. Nobody can beat Ranbir when it comes to acting… He’s very neutral about it. He doesn’t bother too much about hits and flops; all he’s concerned about is acting,” Chhabra elaborated.
Ranbir Kapoor, who already has an impressive roster of versatile roles, is anticipated to bring a unique depth and sincerity to the character of Lord Ram. Known for his method acting and profound dedication, fans and critics alike are eager to see how Kapoor embodies the revered deity, a task both monumental and deeply symbolic in Indian culture.
As critical as it is to cast the perfect Lord Ram, finding the right actor for Lakshman was equally challenging and essential for the film’s credibility. Chhabra shared that many actors had refused the role of Lakshman. “We’ve found a lovely actor for Lakshman. A lot of people auditioned for the role. But I’m very happy with the actor we’ve gone with; this is going to be his first film in Bollywood. It was the last role we cast. We’ve chosen a young actor who has worked a lot in television; he’s a lovely guy. We couldn’t have found a better Lakshman.”
The choice to cast a fresh face in the pivotal role of Lakshman promises to bring a fresh dynamic and authenticity to the portrayal.
. Chhabra emphasized his satisfaction with landing the ideal actor for the role, despite initial refusals from more established names. He remarked, “I’m very happy that the people we’d initially approached all said no. Two or three people said no, because they think that Ram and Lakshman will always have to be together.”
In addition to the excitement over Ranbir Kapoor and the newly teased Lakshman, casting announcements for other major characters have also stirred significant interest. It has been reported that seasoned actor Sunny Deol will portray Hanuman, reinforcing the film’s star-studded ensemble. Deol’s strong screen presence and commanding performance style are expected to bring a powerful portrayal of the beloved deity.
Meanwhile, Kannada cinema superstar Yash has been roped in to play Raavan, a role that demands a potent mix of charisma and menace. Yash’s previous performances have shown his ability to handle complex characters, making him a fitting choice to bring the epic antagonist to life.
Sai Pallavi, known for her expressive performances and natural screen presence, has been cast as Sita. Pallavi’s casting has been particularly well-received, given her previous work that highlights her ability to portray grace and strength—qualities essential for the role of Sita.
The film’s production has kicked off, adding to the mounting excitement. The choice of actors and Mukesh Chhabra’s well-considered insights assure audiences of a compelling cinematic rendition of one of India’s most cherished epics. Nitesh Tiwari’s vision, combined with this ensemble cast, promises a fresh yet respectful portrayal of the timeless Ramayana.
As all eyes remain glued to further updates on the project, the anticipation is a testament to the filmmakers’ ability to captivate the audience even before a single frame has been released. Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Ram, alongside a stellar cast, raises expectations for a defining cinematic experience that pays homage to Indian culture and storytelling.
The journey from casting decisions to the actual portrayal on screen is fraught with challenges and high expectations. However, with experienced hands at the helm and meticulous casting choices, “Ramayana” is gearing up to be more than a film—it is set to be a cultural milestone. As Ranbir Kapoor steps into the world of mythic grandeur and moral complexity, viewers await a saga of heroism, devotion, and epic narrative brought to life.
