Arun Govil talks about casting in Ramayan, says "No current star can portray Lord Ram"

Arun Gowil on who can play Ram better in Ramayana

Respected for his role as Lord Ram in Ramanand Sagar's classic 1987 television series Ramayan, veteran actor Arun Govil has voiced doubt about contemporary Bollywood's attempts to recreate the epic.

Govil has commented on whether any modern actor can portray Lord Ram convincingly in the wake of the backlash Adipurush, which starred Prabhas and Kriti Sanon and was criticised for its poor visual effects and contentious dialogue.

In a recent interview with NDTV, the actor said, “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.”

New discussions concerning the legacy of Ramayan, a serial that is still very much a part of Indian popular culture, have been spurred by Govil's comments.

Generations of viewers continue to hold Govil's performance in high regard, along with that of Dipika Chikhlia as Goddess Sita.

His remarks coincide with growing excitement for one of the most anticipated films in Indian cinema, Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming adaptation of the Ramayana. Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi play Lord Ram and Goddess Sita, respectively, in the movie.

Last year, fans were given a preview of their changes through leaked set photos, which stoked both debate and excitement.

Also Read: Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli sport casuals as they return to Mumbai after RCB's IPL 2025 win, watch

During the Waves Summit 2025, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised the upcoming project, stating, “I was amazed to see the quality of Ramayana that you are creating. I think this is the way we need to tell our stories to the new generation, and I believe what you are setting up will be the best in the globe.”

Alongside Sunny Deol, Ravi Dubey, and Lara Dutta, Yash plays Ravana in the movie. It will be made available in two installments, the first of which is set for Diwali in 2026 and the second for 2027.