Imtiaz Ali expressed excitement about Ranbir Kapoor playing Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari’s ‘Ramayana’, saying the role will deeply enrich Ranbir as an actor. Meanwhile, Imtiaz is reuniting with Diljit Dosanjh for ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’, a Partition-set love story releasing June 12, with music by AR Rahman and Irshad Kamil.
Imtiaz Ali and Ranbir Kapoor share a strong creative bond, having delivered two iconic films: ‘Rockstar’ (2011) and ‘Tamasha’ (2015). While both are presently occupied with their individual projects, Imtiaz expressed genuine excitement about watching Ranbir take on the role of Lord Rama in the upcoming mythological epic, ‘Ramayana’. The two-part saga, helmed by director Nitesh Tiwari, centers on Ranbir in this grand cinematic endeavour. The director admitted that seeing Ranbir portray such a legendary figure would be a deeply fulfilling experience for him.
Imtiaz Ali says Ranbir Kapoor will take from Rama
Speaking to Filmibeat, Imtiaz shared his excitement about Ranbir taking on the dual roles of Lord Rama and Parshuram, noting that as an actor, Ranbir has the ability to bring a sense of authenticity and depth, both to Rama as a character and to Bhagwan Rama as a divine figure. The director expressed his belief in approaching Rama’s character with humanity and intimacy, making it feel personal rather than distant. Imtiaz also highlighted what this role could mean for Ranbir’s own journey as an artist, saying, “It’ll be hugely beneficial for Ranbir to have played Rama because he is the kind of actor, [that] he imbibes from the character. He will take from Rama and that will be so enriching for him.”
Ramayana’s star-studded cast ahead of Diwali 2026 release
‘Ramayana: Part 1’ is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on Diwali 2026, and the film has already begun generating global buzz after a special preview was unveiled at CinemaCon this year. The movie boasts an impressive ensemble alongside Ranbir, bringing together Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh, Vivek Oberoi, Ravi Dubey, Kunal Kapoor, Adinath Kothare, and Arun Govil, with Lara Dutta also part of the lineup. Completing the stellar cast is the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, who takes on the role of Jatayu and also lends his iconic voice as the film’s narrator.
Imtiaz Ali and Diljit Dosanjh reunite for Partition love story ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’
Following the success of ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’, Imtiaz is once again joining forces with Diljit Dosanjh for his upcoming project ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’. The Hindi film, penned and helmed by Imtiaz himself, weaves a romantic tale set against the backdrop of the Partition, featuring Vedang Raina and Sharvari in lead roles. Naseeruddin Shah portrays the older avatar of Vedang’s character, while Diljit steps into the shoes of his grandson.
Imtiaz Ali brings back AR Rahman and Irshad Kamil
Unlike ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’, which went straight to Netflix, ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ is headed for a theatrical release on June 12. For the film’s music and lyrics, Imtiaz has brought back his trusted collaborators AR Rahman and Irshad Kamil. Go to Source
