'Ramayana': Ranbir Kapoor to play double roles, Amitabh joins cast
Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor is set to portray dual roles in Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming mythological epic, Ramayana. According to Peepingmoon, Kapoor will play both Lord Rama and Parashuram—two avatars of Lord Vishnu. This will be his third double role after Shamshera and Animal. The film, which has not yet been officially announced, also stars Sai Pallavi and Lara Dutta, among others.
Parashuram's role is brief but significant
The source further explained the significance of Parashuram's role, stating, "Parashuram had a conflict with Ram after Shiva's bow, Pinaka, was broken. He challenges Ram to bend Vishnu's bow, and upon witnessing Ram succeed, he acknowledges Ram as an incarnation of Vishnu and retreats to his penance." "Although Parashuram's role in the epic is brief, it holds significant importance, and the filmmakers have ensured it reflects that. Ranbir will have a completely distinct and unrecognizable look as Parashuram."
Amitabh Bachchan to lend voice for Jatayu in 'Ramayana'
In another significant casting update, the portal reported that Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan has been confirmed to join the ensemble cast of Ramayana. However, he will not be physically present on screen. Instead, he will lend his voice to the divine bird Jatayu, who loses his life during a violent confrontation with Ravana while attempting to rescue Goddess Sita. The filmmakers have reportedly scanned Bachchan's eyes for VFX purposes to enhance Jatayu's portrayal.
'Ramayana' is being produced on a staggering budget
The two-part mythological saga is being produced by Namit Malhotra—founder of the renowned global VFX company DNEG—under Prime Focus Studios in partnership with KGF star Yash's Monster Mind Creations. The film reportedly has a staggering budget of $100 million and is among the most ambitious Indian projects ever. Other cast members reportedly include Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Laxman, Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha, and Arun Govil as Dashrath.
