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For years, rumours suggested that Telugu superstar Mahesh Babu was the original choice to play Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, before Ranbir Kapoor eventually landed the role. However, the makers have now addressed the speculation, and their response leaves no room for doubt.
During a recent interaction, producer Namit Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari clarified the casting process. The duo insisted that Ranbir Kapoor was always their first and only choice to portray Lord Ram.
Was Mahesh Babu The Original Choice For Lord Ram?
The speculation around Mahesh Babu being considered for the role has circulated ever since Ramayana was announced. Fans even discussed the possibility of the Telugu star playing the revered character. Reports also claimed that other big names were in contention.
Addressing the rumours, producer Namit Malhotra stated that Ranbir Kapoor was always the team’s preferred choice. Director Nitesh Tiwari echoed the sentiment, and reiterated that there was never any confusion over who would portray Lord Ram.
How Did The Mahesh Babu Rumours Begin?
Producer Madhu Mantena, who was associated with the project during its early stages, explained that the rumours started doing the rounds following early industry speculation.
According to him, the reports about Mahesh Babu playing Lord Ram were majorly assumptions that gained momentum over time and were never reflective of the makers’ final casting plans.
Ranbir Kapoor’s Dedication To The Role
The makers have often praised Ranbir Kapoor’s commitment to portraying Lord Ram. Speaking about the role, Ranbir said the Ramayana is so vast that it could easily have been adapted into a 10-part franchise. He also revealed that work on Ramayana: Part Two is already around 50 per cent complete.
A Star-Studded Cast
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana boasts one of the biggest ensembles in Indian cinema. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman and Sunny Deol as Hanuman, among others.
Ramayana Release
The makers are positioning Ramayana as a global cinematic spectacle. The first installment is slated for a Diwali 2026 theatrical release. The two-part adaptation is said to be among the most ambitious Indian film projects ever mounted.
