Ranbir Kapoor
as Lord Ram
in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayan (2026) · Produced by Namit Malhotra / Sony Pictures
About Ranbir Kapoor
Ranbir Kapoor is one of Bollywood's most celebrated actors, known for his nuanced performances and ability to completely transform for a role. Born into the legendary Kapoor family, Ranbir has carved out his own identity with films like Barfi!, Rockstar, Tamasha, Sanju, and Animal. His casting as Lord Ram is considered the most significant casting announcement in recent Indian cinema history.
The Character: Lord Ram
Lord Ram — the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, the ideal son, ideal husband, and ideal king. Ranbir plays a double role: both Ram and Parashurama (the sixth avatar of Vishnu). Ram's journey from the prince of Ayodhya to the conqueror of Lanka forms the backbone of the story.
Why Ranbir Kapoor Was Cast
Nitesh Tiwari chose Ranbir Kapoor for his ability to convey deep emotions through subtle expressions. Ram is a warrior, but also the embodiment of dharma, love, sacrifice, and duty. Ranbir's range — from Animal's raw intensity to Brahmastra's heroism — made him the right fit for the most revered figure in Indian mythology.
Physical & Spiritual Transformation
Ranbir has been training for over 18 months for this role. He follows a strict vegetarian diet, practices archery daily, and has undergone extensive training in classical Indian martial arts and yoga to embody the physical and spiritual grace of Lord Ram.
Notable Filmography
Key Facts
- Ranbir plays a double role — both Lord Ram and Lord Parashurama, the sixth avatar of Vishnu
- Ranbir spent 6 months in Ayodhya to understand Ram's spiritual energy
- He learned Sanskrit shlokas for the role
- His physical training included archery, sword fighting, and classical dance
- He studied the Valmiki Ramayan extensively before accepting the role
Frequently Asked Questions
How long did Ranbir Kapoor prepare for Ramayan?
Ranbir Kapoor spent over 18 months preparing for Lord Ram — including archery, classical Indian martial arts, yoga, Sanskrit shloka learning, and a 6-month stay in Ayodhya to absorb the spiritual energy of the character.
Does Ranbir Kapoor play a double role in Ramayan?
Yes. Ranbir plays both Lord Ram (seventh avatar of Vishnu) and Lord Parashurama (sixth avatar of Vishnu) — making this the most unique double role in Indian cinema history.
Was Ranbir Kapoor the first choice for Ram?
Yes. Nitesh Tiwari has confirmed Ranbir was always his first and only choice. His range — from Animal's raw intensity to Brahmastra's heroism — made him ideal for Ram's spiritual and emotional depth.
What diet did Ranbir Kapoor follow for Ramayan?
Ranbir followed a strict vegetarian diet throughout preparation and shoot — as a mark of respect to Lord Ram. He also observed spiritual practices during filming.
When does Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayan release?
Ramayan releases November 8, 2026 (Diwali 2026) in India. International markets get it from November 6, 2026 via Sony Pictures in 37+ countries — 50,000+ screens worldwide.
Also in Ramayan
Explore the other lead performances in Nitesh Tiwari's epic