Gajendra Chauhan Praises Ranbir Kapoor’s Look in Ramayana but Criticises Kaikeyi’s Modern Styling
Veteran actor Gajendra Chauhan, widely known for portraying Yudhishthir in BR Chopra’s television series Mahabharat, has shared his perspective on Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming mythological film Ramayana. Speaking on an episode of the Hindi Rush Podcast, Chauhan offered praise for Ranbir Kapoor’s visual portrayal as Lord Rama while raising questions regarding the visual adaptation of other characters, notably Kaikeyi.
What Happened
During the podcast appearance, Chauhan discussed the specific hurdles involved in portraying revered mythological figures. He noted that actors taking on such roles should ideally maintain limited public exposure and avoid heavily fixed public images, explaining that audiences find it difficult to separate performers from their frequent appearances in commercial films and advertisements.
Reviewing the Ramayana trailer, Chauhan voiced disappointment regarding the scene where Kaikeyi, played by Lara Dutta, asks King Dashrath to exile Lord Rama. Chauhan remarked that he was not impressed by the sequence, pointing directly to the character’s costume choices: “Her dressing, for one, is very modern. They have given her a modern saree.”
Despite his reservations regarding the costume design, Chauhan gave a positive assessment of Ranbir Kapoor’s appearance in the titular role. Noting that Kapoor looks convincing, Chauhan stated, “He’s looking good,” while adding that he will reserve his ultimate evaluation until seeing the complete performance on the big screen.
Key Highlights
- Praise for Ranbir Kapoor: Gajendra Chauhan confirmed that Kapoor looked convincing as Lord Rama in the film’s trailer.
- Casting Concerns: Chauhan stated that performers portraying sacred characters should avoid excessive commercial exposure and established public images.
- Critique of Kaikeyi’s Scene: The veteran actor expressed disappointment with the modern saree styling used for Kaikeyi during the exile demand sequence.
- Two-Part Release: Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is structured as a two-part epic starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita.
- Multiple Roles: Actor Chetan Hansraj portrays seven characters in the film, including Ravana’s maternal grandfather.
Why This Matters
Portraying revered epic figures requires visual authenticity and careful presentation. Chauhan’s commentary highlights the balance filmmakers face between modern aesthetic interpretations and traditional visual expectations. His observations emphasise how public familiarity with commercial actors and contemporary styling choices can shape initial viewer perception of sacred stories.
What to Watch Next
The first part of Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is scheduled to debut globally in theatres on November 6, followed by its release in India on November 8. The second instalment is slated to release during Diwali 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Gajendra Chauhan say about Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama?
Chauhan praised Kapoor’s appearance in the trailer, stating that he looked good and convincing, while noting that he would make a final assessment after watching the full film in theatres.
Why was Gajendra Chauhan unimpressed by the Kaikeyi scene?
Chauhan voiced disappointment with the sequence where Kaikeyi demands Rama’s exile, stating that her saree and overall styling appeared too modern for the setting.
When is Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana scheduled to release?
The first part is scheduled for a worldwide release on November 6 and an India release on November 8, with the second part planned for Diwali 2027.
Source: Based on an interview report published by Bollywood Hungama.