Jaideep Ahlawat Turns Down Vibhishan's Role In Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana Due To Scheduling Conflicts & Prior Commitments
Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi's much-anticipated mythological epic Ramayana continues to grab headlines with its star-studded cast and high-profile production. While the film already boasts big names like Ranbir as Lord Ram, Sai as Sita, Yash as Ravana, and Sunny Deol as Hanuman, it has now come to light that actor Jaideep Ahlawat was also approached for a pivotal role - that of Vibhishan, Ravana's righteous brother.
According to a report in ETimes, Jaideep was quite keen to join the magnum opus. However, despite initial interest, the actor had to decline the offer due to scheduling conflicts and prior professional commitments.
Sources close to the production reportedly revealed that the makers were eager to bring Jaideep on board, considering the emotional depth and gravitas the role of Vibhishan demands. The role is integral to the narrative, and Jaideep was one of the top choices. But his dates just didn't align.
It may be mentioned that, last year, speculation was rife that Tamil actor Vijay Sethupathi was also in talks to portray Vibhishan. However, those discussions eventually fell through as well, with no confirmation from either party.
With casting still underway for a few important roles in the film, fans are eager to see who will finally step into the shoes of Vibhishan, a character often seen as the moral compass in the tale of Ramayan, and a key player in the eventual downfall of Ravana.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra, Ramayana promises to be a cinematic spectacle, blending mythology with grand visuals and modern storytelling. The film is currently in the production phase. The shooting of the highly-anticipated film began in 2024 in Mumbai.
The film is being planned as a franchise and the first part of Ramayana is being reportedly made on a budget of nearly Rs 835 crore. The makers are leaving no stone unturned to make it larger-than-life and a "global spectacle", according to a report in Bollywood Hungama.
The first part of Ramayana will focus on Lord Ram's youth, marriage with Sita, exile and eventually, Sita's abduction.
Ranbir and Sai began shooting for their roles in April 2024. Several pictures of the lead stars were leaked on social media.
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