Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has voiced his thoughts on Ranbir Kapoor playing Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari’s highly anticipated magnum opus, Ramayana. Known for his iconic portrayal of Bhishma Pitamaha in Mahabharat, Khanna raised concerns about the choice of casting, emphasizing the importance of an actor’s real-life persona aligning with the revered character.
Mukesh Khanna on Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama
Speaking to Mid-Day, Mukesh Khanna remarked:
“Aap jo actor ko cast kar rahe ho, unki zindagi bhi Ram ke against nahi honi chahiye. Humare Kapoor khaandaan ke chirag hain, bohot achhe actor hain. Unki life bhi aisi nahi hai jo aap Ram ke against bol sakein. He’s just done Animal, and his negative personality was highlighted in that movie. I hope that doesn’t disturb this.”
“The actor you are casting should not have a life that goes against Ram’s character. Ranbir Kapoor, a shining star of the Kapoor family, is a great actor. His life doesn’t go against Ram’s image. However, his negative role in Animal may affect the audience’s perception.”)
On Comparisons with Arun Govil
Khanna also discussed the inevitable comparisons between Ranbir Kapoor and Arun Govil, the beloved actor who immortalized Lord Rama in Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan. He stated:
“Agar Ramayana banate ho, toh Arun Govil ke saath comparison hoga, aur wo zaroor hoga. Bhishma Pitamaha banate ho toh Mukesh Khanna ke saath comparison hoga, chahe aap chahein ya na chahein, kyunki unhone ek icon bana diya hai.”
“If you make Ramayana, there will be comparisons with Arun Govil. Similarly, if Bhishma Pitamah is portrayed, comparisons with me are inevitable, because these roles have become iconic.”
Star-Studded Cast and Release Details
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana boasts an impressive cast. Sai Pallavi has been cast as Sita, while Yash and Sunny Deol are rumored to play significant roles, with Deol speculated to portray Hanuman. The film will release in two parts, with the first set for Diwali 2026 and the second expected on Diwali 2027.
While Mukesh Khanna has expressed his reservations, fans eagerly await how this modern retelling will resonate with audiences and honor the timeless epic.
