Ranbir Kapoor‘s ‘Ramayana’ is one of the most awaited films in recent years. Nitesh Tiwari is directing the ambitious two-part film. Part 1 is scheduled to release on Diwali 2026, while Part 2 will arrive on Diwali 2027. Ranbir Kapoor shared some personal memories during the ‘Ramayana’ teaser launch event in Los Angeles. The actor revealed he initially rejected the role of Lord Ram four years ago. He also recalled a conversation from his school days in 2000.
Ranbir Kapoor’s school memory from 2000
During the event, Ranbir recalled an interesting incident from his school days. He said, “In 2000 I was in school of visual arts and my Italian school mate asked me what you’re gonna do in future? Are you going to work in America? Are you going to get an agent in the USA?” He replied that he would rather come to America with a film from his own culture. Ranbir added, “I replied, ‘I’d rather come to America with a film which is from my culture, from my country’ and today I’m sitting here and talking about #Ramayana it’s just feel so surreal.”
Initial rejection of the ‘Ramayana’ role
Ranbir Kapoor was honest about his first reaction to the offer. He said, “I remember when Namit offered me this part around 4 years ago, my instant reaction was ‘No’, I’m not fit enough, not good enough, and I won’t be able to do full justice.” He felt he was not ready for such a massive role at that time. His perspective changed completely after a major personal milestone.
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Fatherhood as turning point
Becoming a father to Raha played a big role in Ranbir’s decision. He explained, “That fear very quickly turned into gratitude because opportunities like this were needed very much in my life. I was in a period in my life where I needed to change my life and lifestyle. I became a father for the first time. I think the sweet coincidence of playing Lord Rama and becoming a father was needed for a turning point in my life.” The responsibility of fatherhood motivated him to accept the challenging role.
Teaser launch and cast
The ‘Ramayana’ teaser was launched in Los Angeles with much fanfare. Sai Pallavi will play Sita, Yash will portray Ravana, Sunny Deol will be Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey will play Lakshman. Kajal Aggarwal and Rakul Preet Singh are cast as Mandodari and Surpanakha respectively. Arun Govil, Kunal Kapoor, Adinath Kothare, Sheeba Chaddha and Indira Krishnan are also part of the project.Meanwhile, Ranbir looked dapper in an all-black tracksuit when he returned to Mumbai after the teaser launch.
