‘Don’t expect a star to touch my feet, Ranbir Kapoor always does’: Arun Govil on new Rama
Source Entity
The Indian Express
Arun Govil has publicly endorsed Ranbir Kapoor for his portrayal of Rama in Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming Ramayana film. Govil, who played the iconic role in the 1987 epic, will portray King Dasharatha in the new production.
A Symbolic Passing of the Torch: Govil Endorses Kapoor
The casting of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming two-part film adaptation of the Indian epic Ramayana has been a subject of intense public discourse. In a significant development, Arun Govil—the veteran actor whose 1987 portrayal of Rama in Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan remains the cultural benchmark—has publicly offered his endorsement of Kapoor. This endorsement is not merely professional; it represents a symbolic passing of the mantle between generations of Indian cinema.
Character and Conduct on Set
Beyond the screen, Govil highlighted the personal demeanor of the younger actor. He noted that despite Kapoor’s status as a contemporary superstar, the actor exhibits a level of humility that resonates with the traditional virtues associated with the character of Rama. Specifically, Govil remarked on Kapoor’s habit of touching his feet, a traditional Indian gesture of reverence, which Govil interpreted as a reflection of the character’s internal grace and respect for elders.
Collaborative Dynamics and Casting
An intriguing aspect of this production is the direct collaboration between the two actors. In a casting choice that bridges the gap between the original television classic and the new cinematic iteration, Arun Govil has been cast as King Dasharatha, the father of Rama, in the first installment of the film. This dynamic allows for a unique mentorship on set, where the predecessor to the role of Rama now assumes the role of the patriarch in the narrative, physically and metaphorically grounding the new production in the legacy of the original.
Interpretations of the Divine
Govil’s analysis of Kapoor’s performance goes beyond mere physical appearance, focusing on the nuanced mannerisms that define the character. He observed that Kapoor captures the specific cadence of how Rama sits and walks, suggesting a deep level of preparation. Govil stated, “Out of all the young stars there are today, Ranbir is the closest to playing Rama,” reinforcing the belief that the role requires a specific temperament that transcends traditional acting prowess.
The Impact of Legacy on Modern Adaptation
Nitesh Tiwari’s decision to include Govil in the cast serves as a masterstroke in managing audience expectations. By aligning the face of the 1987 Ramayan with the modern production, the filmmakers are creating a sense of continuity that honors the emotional connection Indian audiences have with the source material. This endorsement acts as a bridge, potentially soothing skepticism among purists who are protective of the 1987 legacy.
Future Trends in Epic Storytelling
This collaboration signals a broader trend in Indian cinema where modern mythological adaptations are increasingly seeking to harmonize contemporary star power with established cultural icons. As the industry moves toward high-budget, multi-part epics, the validation from legacy actors will likely become a recurring strategy to ensure cultural resonance and commercial success. The mutual respect displayed by both actors suggests a production environment that prioritizes reverence for the source material, setting a high standard for future adaptations of Indian mythology.