Arun Govil reacts to Ranbir Kapoor playing Lord Ram in Ramayana: Nobody wants to see another Rama

Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana continues to be one of the most eagerly awaited films in Indian cinema. Featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and Sai Pallavi as Sita, the ambitious mythological epic has remained in the spotlight ever since its announcement. The excitement only grew further after the unveiling of the film’s first teaser, which generated extensive discussion among audiences and industry insiders alike.

Adding to the anticipation, veteran actor Arun Govil, whose portrayal of Lord Ram in Ramanand Sagar’s iconic television series Ramayan remains deeply cherished by generations of viewers, is also a part of the upcoming film. Arun will be seen playing King Dashrath, the father of Lord Ram, in the big-budget adaptation.

In a recent conversation with Variety India, Arun Govil was asked about Ranbir Kapoor stepping into the role of Lord Ram, a character that has become synonymous with Govil’s own legacy over the decades. While he refrained from commenting on Ranbir’s performance before the film’s release, he expressed complete confidence in the actor’s talent and sincerity.

"As Rama, I won't be able to tell you anything about him, but he is a good actor, there is no doubt about that. He is also a fine human being. As I said earlier, every actor pursues every character in their own way. And he must have played Lord Rama in his own unique way," he said.

Arun Govil was also asked about the criticism and comparisons that surfaced online after the first look of Ramayana was released. Responding to the conversation surrounding Ranbir’s portrayal, the veteran actor suggested that such reactions stem from the lasting impact his own interpretation of Lord Ram has had on audiences.

"That perhaps is also because my performance as Lord Rama became the touchstone. It is still alive in the hearts and minds of people. Nobody wants to see another Rama. You know, my Ramayan keeps playing somewhere or the other at any given time. Even today in North and Central India, whenever there are melas and tamashas and photos of Rama are sold, they have my face on them. So, for me, to talk about an actor's performance as Lord Rama doesn't feel right," he said.

The performance of Arun Govil as Lord Ram in the famous TV show Ramayan created by Ramanand Sagar is still considered one of the best performances made in Indian television until today. The serial, where Deepika Chikhalia played the role of Sita and Sunil Lahri played Lakshman, enjoys a lot of success even many years after it was first broadcasted.

Another very important piece of information regarding the movie was also shared at the big teaser event conducted in Los Angeles. According to Ranbir Kapoor, he would play a double role and portray not only Lord Ram but also Parashurama in the movie.

Also read: Ranbir Kapoor spotted in new look as he visits Ramayana producer Namit Malhotra’s office

Ramayana is directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra. It is planned to be made on a large scale and released in two installments. First, the film will be released in cinemas during Diwali 2026, and then the next chapter will hit the theatres in 2027.

Apart from Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Arun Govil, the ensemble cast also includes Ravi Dubey, Lara Dutta, Rakul Preet Singh and several other prominent names in key roles.