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Following the grand launch of filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana in New Delhi on July 18, anticipation for the epic has reached a fever pitch. While many are eager to witness the film's grand retelling of the timeless epic, others can't wait to see its star-studded ensemble bring the iconic characters to life.
After the principal cast was unveiled amid much fanfare at the grand Ramayana trailer launch, fans finally got a glimpse of the actors stepping into some of Indian mythology's most iconic roles. If you're still wondering who's playing whom in Nitesh Tiwari's ambitious adaptation of the epic, here's a complete guide to the film's star-studded cast and the characters they portray.
Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram
The actor, who has impressed audiences with his versatility over the years, will be seen playing the role of Lord Ram in the epic. The eldest son of King Dashratha of Ayodhya, Ram is revered as the embodiment of righteousness, duty and compassion, and remains one of the most beloved figures in Indian mythology.
Ranbir's portrayal, glimpsed in the trailer, has already left fans impressed, with many praising his serene screen presence and expressing excitement to see him bring the iconic character to life on the big screen.
Sai Pallavi as Sita
After making her acting debut with the Malayalam blockbuster Premam in 2015, actor Sai Pallavi is set to strengthen her presence in Hindi cinema by taking on one of mythology's most iconic roles. She will be seen portraying Maa Sita, a character revered for her grace, resilience and unwavering strength.
Known for bringing authenticity and emotional depth to every performance, Sai Pallavi appears to be a natural fit for the role. Her expressive screen presence and understated elegance are expected to add warmth and dignity to the beloved character, making her portrayal one of the film's biggest highlights.
Ravie Dubey as Lakshmana
Actor Ravi Dubey is set to take on what could be one of the most defining roles of his career with Ramayana. The actor will portray Lakshman, Lord Ram's devoted younger brother, whose unwavering loyalty, courage and sacrifice form the emotional backbone of the epic.
Revered for his fierce dedication and unbreakable bond with Ram, Lakshman is one of mythology's most admired characters. With his intense performances and strong screen presence, Ravi is expected to bring both conviction and emotional depth to the role, marking a significant milestone in his acting journey.
Arun Govil as Dashratha
After immortalising Lord Ram in Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan (1987), Arun Govil is set to surprise audiences by stepping into the role of King Dashratha in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana. The veteran actor, known for bringing depth and nuance to his performances, takes on the complex role of Ayodhya's revered king. As a devoted ruler, a loving husband to his three queens and a deeply emotional father, Dashratha's journey is filled with duty, sacrifice and heartbreak. Arun Govil's experience and command over such layered characters are expected to make his portrayal one of the film's emotional highlights.
Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi
Lara Dutta steps into the role of Queen Kaikeyi, King Dashratha's favourite queen and one of the most pivotal characters in the Ramayana. Her decisions alter the course of the epic, making Kaikeyi a complex figure driven by love, ambition and conviction. Though seen only briefly in the trailer, Lara's commanding screen presence and powerful portrayal have already sparked curiosity.
Sheeba Chaddha as Manthara
Sheeba Chaddha essays the role of Manthara, Queen Kaikeyi's trusted maid and Bharat's governess, whose influence sets in motion one of the most significant turning points in the Ramayana. A pivotal yet deeply layered character, Manthara plays a crucial role in shaping the destiny of Ayodhya. Known for bringing remarkable depth and authenticity to every performance, Sheeba is expected to lend nuance and complexity to the role, making it stand out.
Indira Krishnan as Kaushalya
Indira Krishnan plays Queen Kaushalya, King Dashratha's first and eldest queen, and the mother of Lord Ram. After winning audiences over with her memorable performances on television, the actor is set to make a strong impression in this pivotal role. As Kaushalya, she will portray a mother's unconditional love, strength, and heartbreak, especially during Ram's exile. It will be interesting to see how Indira brings these deeply emotional moments to life on screen.
Sonal Jha as Sumitra
She was the second queen of Ayodhya and the mother of Lakshman and Shatrughan. Sumitra is often seen as the emotional anchor of the family, known for her wisdom, compassion and unwavering support. Given Jha's impressive body of work and ability to portray layered emotions with authenticity, the actor is expected to bring warmth and grace to the revered character.
Shishir Sharma as Vashishtha
Sage Vashishtha was the revered chief priest of the Ikshvaku Dynasty and served as a guiding force for King Dashratha and Lord Ram. Known for his wisdom, righteousness and spiritual guidance, he played a crucial role in shaping the decisions of Ayodhya's royal family. Shishir Sharma, who brings years of experience and versatility to his craft, is expected to add depth and gravitas to this respected character.
Ajinkya Deo as Vishwamitra
A mighty king who later embraced the life of a sage, Vishwamitra played a foundational role as a mentor and guide to Lord Ram. He was instrumental in shaping Ram's journey, imparting knowledge, wisdom and training that helped him become the revered figure he is known as. Having previously been associated with the epic tale, it will be interesting to see what new dimension Deo brings to the character in Ramayana.
Mukesh Tiwari as Agastya
Do you remember the sage who gave shelter to Ram, Sita and Lakshman during their exile in the forest? It was Swami Agastya who recognising Ram's divine mission, constructed a golden bow which was indestructible. With Tiwari's body of work, we can only wait to witness his depiction of the character on the big screen.
Kunal Kapoor as Indra
Indra, the king of the gods and the lord of the skies, weather and thunderstorms, is being portrayed by Kunal Kapoor in Ramayana. Known for his versatile performances across genres, Kunal has often taken on roles that showcase his range as an actor. However, stepping into the world of mythology and playing a revered divine figure marks a distinct departure from his previous work.
Anupam Kher as Jatayu
Jatayu was the king of the vultures and a friend of King Dashrath. Looking at Kher's work in Indian cinema, this has left many of his fans excited.
Yash as Ravana
Kannada actor Yash is set to portray the mighty character of Ravana in Ramayana. Known for his commanding screen presence, charisma and powerful performances, the actor's portrayal of the legendary antagonist has already sparked immense curiosity among fans.
After gaining nationwide recognition as "Rocky Bhai" in the KGF franchise, Yash has now stepped into a role that goes beyond mass appeal, exploring the complexity, intellect and grandeur of one of mythology's most formidable figures. It will be interesting to see how the actor brings a new dimension to Ravana with his distinct style and intensity.
Shobhana Pillai as Kaikesi
An acclaimed actor and trained Bharatanatyam dancer, Shobana brings a unique grace and intensity to every character she portrays. In Ramayana, she will be seen playing Kaikesi, the mother of Ravana, a character that holds great significance in the epic. With her rich experience, powerful expressions and ability to bring depth to complex roles, Shobana's portrayal is expected to add another layer of strength and emotion to the grand adaptation.
Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari
Known for her work across Telugu, Tamil and Hindi cinema, Kajal Aggarwal will be seen portraying Mandodari, the wife of Ravana. A woman known for her wisdom and strength, Mandodari played a significant role in the epic and was among those who urged Ravana to return Sita to Lord Ram after her abduction.
Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha
Known for her beauty, cunning nature and impulsive behaviour, Shurpanakha was the sister of Ravana. Captivated by Lord Ram's appearance, she expressed her desire to marry him, but was stopped by Lakshman, who cut off her nose and ears as a consequence of her actions.
Faisal Malik as Kumbhakarna
After impressing audiences with his stellar work in the Panchayat series, Faisal Malik is set to be part of the grand epic alongside the ensemble cast. He will portray the mighty Kumbhakarna, Ravana's powerful brother, who was considered his trump card against Lord Ram during the famous battle.
Vivek Oberoi as Vidyutjihva
Vidyutjihva was a demon prince and the husband of Shurpanakha. It will be interesting to see how Vivek Oberoi brings this lesser-explored yet significant character to life on screen.
Harish Uthaman as Vibhishana
Vibhishana was Ravana's brother and one of the wisest figures in Lanka. Unlike his brother, he was known for his peaceful nature, pragmatism and honesty. Uthaman, who has worked across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam and Kannada cinema, is expected to bring his own flavour and depth to the role.
Saurabh Sachdeva as Mareech
Mareech was an asura and a close ally of Ravana. Sachdeva, known for his impactful performances, is expected to bring the same magic and intensity to this iconic role.
Adinath Kothare as Bharata
Despite being born a prince, he never desired power for himself. Kothare, who has predominantly worked in Marathi and Hindi cinema, will be a delight to watch as he portrays a devoted brother to Lord Ram.
Nitish Sharma as Shatrughna
The youngest prince of Ayodhya, Shatrughna was known for his loyalty, courage and unwavering support for his family. Nitesh Tiwari has entrusted the responsibility of bringing this lesser-explored yet significant character to life to Nitish, who will add his own interpretation and depth to the role.
With such a diverse and accomplished ensemble stepping into the world of Ramayana, Nitesh Tiwari's adaptation promises to bring together some of Indian cinema's finest talents for one of the most revered stories ever told.
Co-producers Namit Malhotra's DNEG and Yash's Monster Mind Creations have joined hands with Karan Johar's Dharma Productions, which will oversee the film's distribution across India. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the first part of the film will release in theatres on Diwali 2026, while the second part will hit screens in 2027.
