Mumbai: Actor Ranbir Kapoor has opened up about the extensive spiritual and mental preparation he underwent to portray Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, revealing that he spent two years practising yoga, met religious scholars and meditated for hours to understand the essence of the revered character rather than simply focusing on his physical appearance.
Speaking during a promotional event for Ramayana, Ranbir described the role as one of the most profound experiences of his acting career and said the preparation was centred on understanding Lord Ram’s philosophy, values and way of life.
Two years of yoga and meditation
Ranbir said his transformation into Lord Ram went beyond conventional acting preparation.
According to the actor, he dedicated two years to practising yoga and spent long hours meditating under the guidance of his guru to develop the mental discipline required for the role. He explained that the process was aimed at connecting with the spiritual teachings associated with Lord Ram.
“I practised yoga for two years,” Ranbir said, adding that meditation became an important part of his daily routine during the preparation.
Studied scriptures and met scholars
Apart from physical and spiritual training, Ranbir said he immersed himself in religious texts and discussions with scholars to gain a deeper understanding of Lord Ram’s character.
He revealed that he read extensively and consulted experts to understand the ideals, compassion, sacrifice and sense of duty associated with the epic’s central figure.
Ranbir emphasised that internalising these values was far more important than merely achieving an external resemblance.
“Understanding it was more important than the superficial transformation,” he said while explaining his approach to the role.
A role unlike any other
The actor described playing Lord Ram as one of the most meaningful roles of his career.
Known for portraying a wide range of characters in films across different genres, Ranbir said the responsibility of bringing one of India’s most revered figures to the screen required a different level of commitment and sensitivity.
He added that the experience had also influenced him personally by encouraging discipline and introspection throughout the preparation process.
Ramayana aims for a global audience
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is among the most ambitious Indian film projects to date. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana.
The production is backed by producer Namit Malhotra and features music by A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer. The makers have positioned the project as a global cinematic adaptation of the ancient Indian epic with extensive visual effects and large-scale production values.
Growing anticipation
The film has generated significant excitement ahead of its release, with audiences eager to see Ranbir Kapoor’s interpretation of Lord Ram.
His revelations about studying scriptures, consulting scholars and adopting spiritual practices have further highlighted the emphasis placed on authenticity while preparing for the role.
As promotional activities continue, Ramayana remains one of the most anticipated Indian films of the year, with fans awaiting its trailer and eventual theatrical release.