The upcoming film Ramayana has generated considerable interest with its ensemble cast and ambitious retelling of the ancient Indian epic. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra, the film brings together actors from Hindi, Kannada, Marathi and other film industries to portray some of the most recognised characters in Indian mythology.
From Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Rama to Yash’s transformation into Ravana, the film features several leading actors in pivotal roles. Here is a look at the prominent cast members and the characters they are expected to portray.
Ramayana Release Date, Budget and Languages
Ramayana is reportedly being produced on a budget of around Rs 4,000 crore, making it one of the most expensive Indian film projects ever announced. The scale of the production, its ensemble cast and its treatment of the ancient epic have contributed to the anticipation surrounding the film.
The movie is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on November 5, 2026. It is expected to be released in Hindi, English, Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu, reaching audiences across India and international markets.
Ramayana Main Cast and Characters
1. Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama
Ranbir Kapoor plays Lord Rama, the central character of the epic. He is also reported to portray Lord Vishnu and Parashurama, reflecting the film’s broader mythological narrative.
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2. Yash as Ravana
Kannada superstar Yash takes on the role of Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka and the principal antagonist of the Ramayana. His casting has been among the most discussed aspects of the film.
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3. Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita
Sai Pallavi portrays Goddess Sita, the wife of Lord Rama and the daughter of King Janaka. Her character is central to the epic’s narrative, particularly the events surrounding her abduction by Ravana.
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4. Ravie Dubey as Lakshmana
Television and film actor Ravie Dubey plays Lakshmana, Lord Rama’s younger brother and a loyal companion who accompanies him during his exile.
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5. Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman
Sunny Deol has been cast as Lord Hanuman, the devoted follower of Lord Rama who plays a crucial role in the battle against Ravana. His character is expected to have a significant presence in the sequel, although his appearance in the first instalment has not been clearly established.
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6. Arun Govil as King Dasharatha
Arun Govil, widely recognised for playing Lord Rama in the classic television adaptation of Ramayan, returns to the epic in a different role. He portrays King Dasharatha, Rama’s father and the ruler of Ayodhya.
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7. Lara Dutta as Queen Kaikeyi
Lara Dutta plays Queen Kaikeyi, one of King Dasharatha’s wives and the mother of Bharata. Her demand that Rama be sent into exile becomes a turning point in the story.
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8. Sheeba Chaddha as Manthara
Sheeba Chaddha portrays Manthara, Kaikeyi’s maid and confidante. Manthara influences Kaikeyi’s decisions and plays a significant role in the events that lead to Rama’s exile.
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9. Sonal Jha as Queen Sumitra
Sonal Jha plays Sumitra, another of King Dasharatha’s wives and the mother of Lakshmana and Shatrughna.
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10. Adinath Kothare as Bharata
Actor Adinath Kothare portrays Bharata, the son of Kaikeyi and younger brother of Rama. Bharata is known for his loyalty to Rama and his reluctance to take the throne in his brother’s absence.
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11. Nitish Sharma as Shatrughna
Nitish Sharma plays Shatrughna, the youngest son of King Dasharatha and the twin brother of Lakshmana. His character is part of Rama’s extended family and the royal household of Ayodhya.
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12. Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha
Rakul Preet Singh is reported to play Shurpanakha, Ravana’s sister. Her encounter with Rama and Lakshmana sets off a chain of events that contributes to the conflict between Rama and Ravana.
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13. Vivek Oberoi as Vidyutjihva
Vivek Oberoi portrays Vidyutjihva, Shurpanakha’s husband. His character is associated with the wider family history of Ravana and the events surrounding Lanka.
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14. Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari
Kajal Aggarwal plays Mandodari, Ravana’s wife and the queen of Lanka. She is an important figure in Ravana’s household and the larger narrative of the epic.
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15. Anupam Kher as Jatayu
Veteran actor Anupam Kher is reported to lend his voice to Jatayu, the courageous bird who attempts to rescue Sita when Ravana abducts her. Jatayu’s intervention becomes a significant moment in Rama’s search for Sita.]
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16. Kunal Kapoor as Lord Indra
Kunal Kapoor takes on the role of Lord Indra, the king of the devas and ruler of heaven in Hindu mythology.
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Other Supporting Cast Members
Alongside the principal actors, Ramayana features several performers in supporting roles that help bring the epic’s characters and settings to life.
Suhail Nayyar as Sugriva
Indira Krishnan as Queen Kaushalya
Shishir Sharma as Sage Vasishtha
Ajinkya Deo as Sage Vishvamitra
Sonia Balani as Urmila
Faisal Malik as Kumbhakarna
Saurabh Sachdeva as Maricha
Kanchan Chetal as Tataka
Chetan Hansraj as Sumali
These characters represent different aspects of the epic, from Rama’s family and allies to the sages and members of Ravana’s kingdom.
Conclusion
With Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi leading the cast, Ramayana brings together an extensive lineup of actors to portray the legendary figures of the epic. The involvement of established stars such as Sunny Deol, Arun Govil and Anupam Kher further adds to the film’s appeal. As its release approaches, audiences will be watching closely for more details about the characters, the film’s visual presentation and its interpretation of one of India’s most enduring stories.
