Ranbir Kapoor Discusses His Role as Lord Ram in Ramayana

Ranbir Kapoor has recently shared his thoughts regarding his casting as Lord Ram in the upcoming film Ramayana: Part 1, directed by Nitesh Tiwari. The actor acknowledged the diverse opinions surrounding his portrayal of this revered character, recognizing that audiences often have distinct expectations based on their personal interpretations of Lord Ram. Kapoor reflected on his own initial doubts about whether he was the right choice for such a significant role, ultimately embracing the challenge that comes with representing a figure of immense cultural importance in India. The film's trailer has sparked considerable excitement online, with many praising its grand visuals and ambitious scale. However, some viewers have expressed skepticism about Kapoor's casting, prompting him to address the inevitable discussions that arise when a beloved character is reimagined. He emphasized that every devotee has their own unique vision of Lord Ram, which contributes to the varied reactions to his performance. During a promotional event at San Diego Comic-Con, Kapoor recounted his first thoughts upon being offered the role, admitting that his immediate concern was whether he was worthy of the responsibility. He soon realized that embodying Lord Ram transcends merely acting; it involves honoring a figure that has been integral to Indian culture for millennia. Kapoor articulated that there can never be a single, universally accepted representation of Lord Ram, as each individual carries their own interpretation shaped by personal beliefs and experiences. He stated, "All the people who have watched Ramayana have their own interpretation of Lord Ram. Some people will feel I’m the wrong casting, others may think I’m the right one. What matters is approaching the role with the right intentions, faith and belief." Supporting him in this endeavor is his co-star Yash, who plays Ravana in the film. Yash has publicly praised Kapoor's commitment to the role, describing it as one of the most challenging an actor can undertake. He lauded Kapoor's performance as "marvellous," expressing confidence that audiences will witness a portrayal infused with sincerity, sacrifice, and purpose when the film is released. In addition to his role as Lord Ram, Kapoor will also portray Lord Parshurama in this two-part mythological epic. He discussed the complexities of playing two distinct characters, explaining that he focused on the spiritual and emotional nuances that differentiate the two avatars. Kapoor dedicated nearly a year to preparing for the film, immersing himself in the philosophies and motivations of both figures prior to filming. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part 1 is set to premiere during Diwali 2026. The film boasts an impressive cast, including Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Yash as Ravana, promising to deliver a captivating cinematic experience that honors the rich tapestry of Indian mythology.