Ranbir Kapoor reveals the real reason on why he chose Lord Ram in 'Ramayana' and it’s not what you think

Highlights:

• Ranbir Kapoor reveals what made him accept Ramayana.
• The actor admits he questioned whether he deserved the role.
• He explains why Lord Ram has no "fixed face."
• Ranbir responds to online criticism over his casting.
• Ramayana is set to release in two parts beginning this Diwali.

For months, Ranbir Kapoor has been at the center of one of Indian cinema’s biggest casting debates. Ever since filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari announced that the Bollywood star would portray Lord Ram in the epic adaptation of Ramayana, social media has been flooded with opinions. While some fans celebrated the choice, others questioned whether Kapoor was the right actor to bring one of Hinduism’s most revered figures to life.

Now, Kapoor is finally breaking his silence and his answer may surprise audiences.

Rather than dismissing the criticism, the actor admitted that he initially had the exact same question himself.

Speaking in a recent interview, Kapoor revealed that his first reaction to the offer wasn't excitement or confidence. Instead, it was self-doubt.

"The first question that popped into my head was, 'Am I worthy? Am I the right person? Why am I being given this responsibility?'" he shared, explaining that portraying Lord Ram felt like much more than just accepting another movie role.

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For Kapoor, the opportunity wasn't about starring in a blockbuster. It was about representing a figure who has inspired millions for thousands of years.

That realization ultimately became the reason he accepted the project.

According to the actor, he quickly understood the filmmakers' larger visios to bring a timeless story to a new generation while honoring its cultural and spiritual significance. He described Ramayana as a narrative that has remained deeply rooted in people's consciousness for nearly 4,000 years, making the responsibility both humbling and meaningful.

Kapoor also addressed one of the biggest criticisms surrounding his casting: whether anyone can truly be the "perfect" Lord Ram.

His response was refreshingly simple.

"There is no right actor to play Lord Ram," he said.

The actor explained that every person who has grown up with the Ramayana imagines the character differently. Whether through religious teachings, family traditions, books, artwork, television, or cinema, audiences naturally develop their own image of Lord Ram over time.

Because of that, Kapoor believes there can never be one universally accepted face for the role.

"There is no fixed face to Lord Ram," he explained, acknowledging that opinions will always vary. Some viewers may believe he is the wrong choice, while others may fully support the casting. In his view, neither perspective is inherently wrong.

Instead, Kapoor believes what truly matters is the actor's sincerity.

He emphasized that anyone portraying Lord Ram should approach the role with genuine faith, respect, and honest intentions rather than trying to match a preconceived physical image.

Those comments have added a new layer to the conversation surrounding the highly anticipated film. Much of the online criticism has focused on Kapoor's previous performances, public persona, and whether they align with the ideals associated with Lord Ram. Rather than responding defensively, the actor chose to recognize those concerns while explaining the mindset he is bringing to the project.

That perspective may resonate with audiences who have been waiting to hear directly from Kapoor instead of relying on speculation across social media.

The film itself continues to generate enormous anticipation.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana features an impressive ensemble cast. Sai Pallavi stars as Sita, while Ravie Dubey plays Lakshman. Kannada superstar Yash takes on the role of Ravana, one of mythology's most iconic antagonists.

The production has also attracted global attention for its creative team. Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer is collaborating with legendary Indian musician A.R. Rahman on the score, while celebrated cinematographer Pankaj Kumar is overseeing the film's visual style.

The filmmakers recently showcased the ambitious project during San Diego Comic-Con through special presentations and media interactions, signaling their intention to introduce Ramayana to audiences far beyond India.

The epic will unfold across two films, with the first installment scheduled to hit theaters this Diwali and the concluding chapter arriving on Diwali 2027.

Whether audiences ultimately embrace Kapoor as Lord Ram remains to be seen. But one thing is now clear: his decision to accept the role wasn't driven by the chance to play a legendary hero. It came from confronting his own doubts, recognizing the weight of the responsibility, and believing that honoring the character with sincerity matters more than fitting anyone's preconceived image.