Mumbai: The makers of Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana have unveiled the first look of Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, introducing another important character from the Indian epic. The newly released poster presents the actor as the Princess of Janasthan, offering audiences a glimpse of her appearance in the ambitious two-part cinematic adaptation.
Sharing the poster, the makers announced her casting with the caption, “Jansthan ki Rajkumari, Surpanakha. Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha.”
In the first-look poster, Rakul appears in a royal ensemble featuring intricate detailing, ornate gold jewellery and an elaborate headpiece. The look reflects the visual design created for the character in the film.
Rakul calls Surpanakha role a special experience
Speaking about her association with the project, Rakul said playing Surpanakha was a special experience and an opportunity to explore a character with a significant place in the epic.
“Being a part of Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana and playing Surpanakha is a truly special experience for me. She is a character with a significant place in this epic, and exploring her world has been an incredible journey as an actor,” she said.
The actor also spoke about the cultural significance of the story and the privilege of being part of a cinematic adaptation of an epic cherished across generations.
“To be part of a story that has been cherished across generations and holds such a special place in our culture is a privilege. I’m excited for audiences to see this portrayal and experience the world that Nitesh Tiwari and Namit Malhotra are bringing to life on such a grand scale,” she added.
Surpanakha’s role in the Ramayana
In the Ramayana, Surpanakha is Ravana’s sister. Her encounter with Rama and Lakshman during their exile becomes a pivotal episode in the narrative.
The events following this encounter set in motion a chain of developments that eventually lead to the conflict between Rama and Ravana. Surpanakha’s character therefore occupies an important place in the larger storyline of the epic.
Rakul’s casting introduces the character into the film’s ensemble, which brings together several prominent actors to portray figures from the Indian epic.
Star-studded cast and two-part release
The film features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations.
Planned as a two-part cinematic adaptation, Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for a worldwide release on November 5, 2026, while Part 2 is slated for Diwali 2027.
The films are planned for release in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, with an IMAX release also planned. Sony Pictures will handle international distribution outside India, while Dharma Productions will distribute the film in the Hindi-speaking market.
With Rakul’s first look now revealed, the makers have introduced another key character as anticipation builds around the two-part adaptation.