Dipika Chikhlia Supports Ranbir Kapoor's Role in Ramayana Amid Controversy

The upcoming film adaptation of Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has sparked significant discussion among audiences, especially following the release of its much-anticipated trailer. The film has garnered praise for its impressive visuals and grand scale, yet the casting of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram has become a contentious topic. Veteran actress Dipika Chikhlia, who is widely recognized for her portrayal of Sita in the classic television series by Ramanand Sagar, has publicly voiced her support for Kapoor during a recent podcast interview, amidst the ongoing debates surrounding his casting.

In her conversation on the Hindi Rush podcast, Chikhlia addressed the criticism directed at Kapoor, particularly from those who have expressed concerns about his previous roles, such as in the film Animal. She emphasized that an actor's ability to take on a variety of characters is a fundamental aspect of their profession. Chikhlia argued that it is unfair to judge an actor solely based on their past performances, insisting that versatility is a hallmark of true talent. She remarked, “He’s an actor. It’s not like we descended from above,” referring to herself and her co-star Arun Govil, who famously played Lord Ram in the earlier television adaptation. Chikhlia further elaborated that the ability to portray diverse roles is commendable, stating that someone who has successfully played a character in Barfi can also take on the role of Lord Ram, highlighting Kapoor's range as an actor.

Ranbir Kapoor himself has acknowledged the mixed reactions regarding his casting in this iconic role. During an interview with Review Nation at San Diego Comic-Con, he reflected on the weight of the responsibility that comes with portraying such a revered figure. Kapoor expressed his initial doubts about whether he was the right choice for the role, questioning his worthiness to represent Lord Ram. However, he soon recognized the significance and noble intent behind the filmmakers' vision to tell a story that has resonated for thousands of years. He stated, “The first question that popped into my head was, am I worthy? Am I the right person, and why am I being gifted this responsibility to not play Lord Rama but represent him?” This introspection illustrates Kapoor's deep respect for the character and the cultural importance of the Ramayana. The film features a stellar ensemble cast, including Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol, Rakul Preet Singh, and Ravi Dubey, among others, all set to bring this epic tale to life. The first part of Ramayana is scheduled for release during Diwali 2026, with the sequel expected to follow a year later, on Diwali 2027.