Nitesh Tiwari Reveals Insights on Casting Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram in 'Ramayana'
Following the exclusive first glimpse screening of the highly anticipated film 'Ramayana' in Los Angeles, director Nitesh Tiwari, actor Ranbir Kapoor, and producer Namit Malhotra traveled to New York City for a second private event. Similar to the LA gathering, the filmmaker and lead star engaged in an open discussion about the monumental project, covering topics from casting decisions to the film's core message and production details.
Why Ranbir Kapoor Was the Ideal Choice for Lord Ram
In a video captured during the New York screening, director Nitesh Tiwari elaborated on his decision to cast Ranbir Kapoor in the pivotal role of Lord Rama. Tiwari expressed deep confidence in Kapoor's ability to embody the character's complexities and bring him to life on the silver screen. Speaking passionately at the event, Tiwari stated, "Lord Ram was a man of few words. His love was boundless, and his pain, though invisible, was profoundly felt. The role demanded immense physicality to convey his courage authentically. Given these rigorous requirements, we believed there was no one better suited than Ranbir Kapoor to portray these multifaceted traits and meet the sky-high expectations of billions of viewers worldwide."
Staying True to the Original Epic: No Modernization Needed
During a question-and-answer session, Tiwari addressed why the team chose to remain faithful to the ancient epic rather than attempting to modernize it. He clarified that this was a deliberate artistic choice rooted in reverence for the source material. Nitesh explained, "We did not consciously strive to transform 'Ramayana' into a contemporary tale. The essence of this epic lies in its enduring values, which are universal and timeless. These principles do not require modernization; instead, they need to be remembered and celebrated. In today's world, where such values are often forgotten, a film like this can serve as a powerful reminder and potentially contribute to making the world a better place."
Star-Studded Cast and Release Details for 'Ramayana'
The film features an impressive ensemble cast, with Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash portraying the formidable Ravana, Sunny Deol as the mighty Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey in the role of Lakshman. 'Ramayana' is poised to be one of the most awaited cinematic releases of 2026. While the first glimpse has been showcased to select audiences in the United States, producer Namit Malhotra announced via social media that fans globally, including in India, will get to see the clip on April 2. The full film is scheduled for a grand theatrical release during Diwali 2026, promising a spectacular visual and narrative experience.
This project represents a significant milestone in Indian cinema, blending traditional storytelling with cutting-edge production techniques to honor a cultural legacy. The team's dedication to authenticity and emotional depth aims to resonate with audiences across generations, reaffirming the timeless relevance of the 'Ramayana' saga.
