Why Ranbir Kapoor-Yash's Ramayana feels like a moment for Indian cinema
It carries within its values, devotion, bonding, feminism, power, history, defiance, and a wealth of emotions that resonate with every heart. And while it's too soon to know if Tiwari's 'Ramayana' will successfully capture all this on screen, one thing is already clear - the casting is pitch perfect.Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram might be the most inspired casting choice in years. Arguably the finest actor of his generation, kapoor has consistently proven his craft - regardless of box office outcomes. His maturity, sincerity and effortless ability to become the character make him a thrilling fit for the role.advertisementTiwari's choice of Sai Pallavi as Sita seems equally profound. The goddess is reverred for her simplicity, quiet strength and inner beauty - qualities that Pallavi exudes. The actor is known across the Indian film industry for her no-glam image and expressive presence, especially in Malayalam cinema. She brings a rare authenticity to the role.And yet the boldest move was perhaps casting Yash as Ravana. The 'KGF' fame is not just a striking presence, he commands the screen. He's a brave actor, never afraid to experiment, and his declaration of his craft is evident in every frame. He is not just watched on the big screen - he is experienced.Then comes Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, a television star with an undeniable presence and proven talent. Tiwari's faith in Dubey - choosing sincerity and emotional depth over stardom - reflects his commitment to storytelling over spectacle.The casting of 'Ramayana' looks as vibrant and powerful as the epic itself: a Bollywood powerhouse, a Malayalam gem, a Kannada superstar and a TV icon - all anchored by one of the most electrifying choices of all: Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman.Deol's thunderous energy, towering screen presence, and innate heroism make him the embodiment of Hanuman's fierce devotion and strength. His casting doesn't seem just right, but almost destined. Deol is to 'Ramayana' what Lord Hanuman is to the epic: a relentless warrior who wins hearts.advertisement The ensemble cast makes 'Ramayana' a promise of more than just a big-screen spectacle - a promise of an emotion, a memory, a generational experience. The film doesn't seem to be trying to modernise the epic, nor is it trying to reimagine it to suit trends. It's almost like Tiwari has bowed down to its source, honoured its scale, its essence, and the immense emotional capital it holds in most Indian households.'Ramayana' is attempting to recreate a world, revive a belief, and retouch the moral compass that the epic so powerfully embodies. In a time when mythology often drives a battleground of opinions, Tiwari's attempt at making this film looks more like reverence than revision.This is probably a one-of-its-kind effort to bring generations of audiences together, and offer them an opportunity to reconnect with their shared cultural space - realise a shared dream. It may just also become the defining cinematic mythology of our times.The epic deserves no less. Neither does the audience.- EndsMust Watch
IN THIS STORY#Ranbir Kapoor#Yash#Sunny Deol
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