Ranbir Kapoor and the colossal task of playing Lord Ram: Can modern Bollywood rise to the challenge?

Ranbir Kapoor’s casting as Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming Ramayan has sparked significant discussion across film circles and social media. The choice of one of Bollywood’s leading actors to portray such an iconic figure is both exciting and controversial, raising the question: can Ranbir Kapoor convincingly embody Lord Ram?

The Enduring Legacy of Lord Ram On Screen

Any portrayal of Lord Ram carries the enormous legacy of the 1987 television series Ramayan by Ramanand Sagar. Arun Govil’s portrayal of Ram became so deeply ingrained in Indian households that it remains the cultural benchmark for the role. Recently, Govil expressed skepticism about contemporary actors’ ability to meet this standard, telling NDTV, “Three-four people tried recreating it, [but] they were not successful. I don't think in our lifetime someone should try to recreate Ramayan. As far as some actor playing Ram [is concerned], all the available actors, all the stars at this moment — I don't think anyone is suitable. Maybe you can find someone outside the industry.”

This reflects the intense pressure and reverence surrounding the role — it is more than a character; it is a symbol of dharma, virtue, and spirituality deeply etched in Indian consciousness.

Ranbir Kapoor’s Career: Strengths and Challenges for the Role

Ranbir Kapoor’s filmography showcases a wide range of characters that highlight his versatility. His performances in films like Rockstar (2011) reveal his ability to portray intense emotional turmoil, while Barfi! (2012) showcased his flair for subtlety and charm without dialogue-heavy scenes. Sanju (2018), a biopic of actor Sanjay Dutt, underlined his skill in portraying complex, flawed personalities with depth and nuance.

However, playing Lord Ram demands a distinct set of qualities beyond acting range. It requires an aura of calm strength, righteousness, and spiritual gravitas. Unlike his more rebellious or emotionally volatile roles, Lord Ram is traditionally portrayed with serene dignity and moral clarity. The question is whether Ranbir’s usual screen persona — often layered with vulnerability and youthful angst — can convincingly shift to embody this idealized figure.

Some argue that his performance in Shamshera (2022), where he played a heroic, almost mythic figure, offers promise for his ability to handle larger-than-life roles. Others point out that his comfort with romantic roles, such as in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016), might clash with the stoic and disciplined nature expected of Lord Ram.

Fan reactions on social media are divided. While some welcome Ranbir’s casting as a chance to bring a modern sensibility to the epic, others remain cautious. Many comments reflect the difficulty of reconciling Ranbir’s Bollywood star image with the spiritual and cultural significance of Lord Ram.

One Twitter user acknowledged Ranbir’s acting skills but felt that Lord Ram requires a different kind of presence, expressing curiosity to see if Ranbir can meet that expectation. Another user noted that the role is tough for anyone but said Ranbir’s range offers some hope, emphasizing that cinema allows for evolving interpretations.

The Scale and Ambition of Ramayan

Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayan is set for release in two parts in 2026 and 2027, aiming to retell the epic with a contemporary cinematic approach. The film features Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash from the KGF franchise as Ravana, signaling a blend of popular and serious actors. The project has already received political backing, with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praising the film’s quality and approach to retelling the epic for a new generation. This support raises expectations but also increases scrutiny on casting decisions.

The Broader Context of Mythological Portrayals

Past portrayals of Lord Ram have had varying degrees of success. Arun Govil’s Ram remains the most cherished, while cinematic efforts like Adipurush (2023) with Prabhas drew criticism for both performance and visual treatment. The challenge lies in balancing devotional respect with cinematic storytelling.

Governing this is a wider debate about cultural representation — who has the authority and capacity to play such a revered figure? Govil’s suggestion that someone “outside the industry” might be more suitable underscores how unconventional casting choices could challenge entrenched expectations.

Can Ranbir Kapoor Bridge Tradition and Modern Cinema?

Ranbir Kapoor represents the modern Bollywood star: commercially successful, versatile, and popular among young audiences. His casting might be an effort to make Ramayan more relatable to contemporary viewers while preserving the epic’s essence. However, this transition is fraught with risk. If his portrayal does not align with the public’s spiritual and cultural expectations, it could lead to backlash. On the other hand, a nuanced and respectful performance could redefine how the epic is visualized for decades to come.

Conclusion: A Role That Demands More Than Acting

Ranbir Kapoor’s success as Lord Ram will depend on his ability to transcend his usual film persona and embody the profound dignity and righteousness that the character demands. Arun Govil’s cautionary remarks remind us of the unique challenge this role presents.

As audiences, it is important to watch with measured expectations. The film’s reception will hinge on how well it balances reverence with cinematic innovation. Ranbir’s portrayal could either become a new touchstone or remain a point of contention in India’s continuing dialogue with its mythological heritage.

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