
Fresh updates have shaken up the casting buzz around Ramayan, one of India’s biggest upcoming film projects. The role of Surpanakha, a key character in the epic, was reportedly first offered to Priyanka Chopra. But due to her international commitments, the part eventually went to Rakul Preet Singh.
This surprising detail came via a report in The Times of India, quoting an insider:

“Surpanakha is one of the main reasons Ramayan took place. The makers were keen on having Priyanka Chopra for the role. But her packed international schedule didn’t allow it. That’s when Rakul came on board—and she brought the right energy and freshness.”
The production team hasn’t confirmed this yet, but in Bollywood, where smoke usually means fire, fans are already debating the switch.
A Film That’s Thinking Global
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayan is shaping up to be a cinematic beast. With a reported ₹835 crore budget and 600 days of post-production, this isn’t just another epic—it’s India’s attempt at building a global franchise.
Producer Namit Malhotra even revealed at WAVES 2025 that the film will be lip-synced in native languages for global markets—English, Spanish, Japanese, and beyond. That’s not dubbing. That’s going all in. Source: Indian Express
The Cast: Heavyweights All Around
Besides Rakul as Surpanakha, the confirmed cast includes:
- Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram
- Sai Pallavi as Sita
- Yash as Ravana
- Sunny Deol as Hanuman
- Ravi Dubey as Lakshman
- Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi
- Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari
- Arun Govil as King Dasharath
Yes, that Arun Govil—from the classic TV Ramayan. Full-circle moment.
Drama Behind the Divine
It’s no surprise that a character like Surpanakha—bold, twisted, tragic—is stirring up casting chatter. And while Priyanka would have been a power move, Rakul Preet may just surprise us.
Let’s be honest—PC might’ve made Surpanakha viral. But Rakul might make her unforgettable.
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