Sunny Deol on ‘Ramayana’ success: ‘I don’t predict’; says Dara Singh is irreplaceable as Hanuman |
Sunny Deol has shared his thoughts on Nitesh Tiwari‘s much-awaited ‘Ramayana‘. The actor plays Hanuman in the two-part mythological epic, which features Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. Despite the great anticipation around the movie, Sunny Deol said he is not in a position to predict its eventual impact. The actor revealed that he has not seen the complete film yet. In a conversation with Shubhankar Mishra, Sunny Deol was asked whether ‘Ramayana’ could “change Indian cinema”. He said he would rather wait before making any predictions about the movie’s outcome.“Dekhiye, kisi cheez ke baare main kuch predict karna, main unme se nahi hoon. But definitely, because maine poori film toh dekhi nahi hai, sirf voh trailer dekha hai… the special effects are of great calibre.” (“Look, I’m not someone who likes to predict the outcome of anything. But definitely, since I haven’t seen the entire film, I’ve only watched the trailer… the special effects are of great calibre.”) Sunny Deol, however, praised the work done by director Nitesh Tiwari. He believes the filmmaker has the creative ability to bring the story to audiences effectively.
Sunny Deol praises Nitesh Tiwari’s vision
According to Sunny Deol, the creative team has several strengths working in its favour. He also expressed hope that the story would be presented in a straightforward manner. “I’m sure, since the director is very talented and very good, I hope we come across with the story as simple as possible. We’re all good actors everywhere, so, mere hisaab se, from the creative side, he’s got everything going for it,” he said.
Sunny Deol talks about following Dara Singh
Playing Hanuman also places Sunny Deol in a role previously immortalised by Dara Singh. The veteran actor portrayed Hanuman in Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayan’, which remains one of the most remembered television adaptations of the epic. Sunny Deol acknowledged the significance of stepping into a role associated so strongly with Dara Singh. “Pichli baar Dara ji the, abhi main, I don’t know main kahan tak pohochunga.” (“Last time, it was Dara ji. This time, it’s me. I don’t know how far I will be able to reach.”) He also admitted that Dara Singh’s portrayal continues to hold a special position. “I have no idea, but Dara ji is irreplaceable as Hanuman ji. Diwali aayegi, we’ll get the glimpse of what tomorrow is gonna be.” (“I have no idea, but Dara ji is irreplaceable as Hanuman ji. Diwali will come, and we’ll get a glimpse of what tomorrow is going to be.”)Sunny Deol’s Hanuman has become one of the most anticipated elements of the upcoming movie. His absence from the recently released trailer has further fuelled speculation about his screen presence.
Sunny Deol says he still has work left on ‘Ramayana’
Sunny Deol had previously spoken about his involvement with the project at the trailer launch in July. At the time, he revealed that his filming was still at an early stage. “To tell you the truth, I have done only a little work on the film so far. I still have a long way to go,” he said. The actor also spoke about the responsibility attached to portraying Hanuman. He thanked the makers for giving him the opportunity and promised to approach the role sincerely. “I am grateful that I received the opportunity to play Hanuman ji. I will make every possible effort to portray him in the right way.”
‘Ramayana’ release date and star cast
Nitesh Tiwari is directing ‘Ramayana’, while Namit Malhotra is producing the ambitious project. The story is planned across two films. Ranbir Kapoor portrays Rama, while Sai Pallavi plays Sita. Yash takes on the role of Ravana, with Sunny Deol portraying Hanuman. The movie is being developed on a large scale, with extensive visual effects expected to be a key part of its presentation.‘Ramayana’ Part One is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on November 8, 2026, coinciding with Diwali.
