Entertainment · Indian Cinema · 14 hrs ago
Arun Govil Says He Initially Hesitated to Play Dashrath in Ramayana
Arun Govil is playing King Dashrath in director Nitesh Tiwari’s new Ramayana, with Ranbir Kapoor as Rama.
Govil became widely known for playing Rama in the 1987–88 television series Ramayan.
He was not keen to take the Dashrath role at first, he said in an interview with Variety India.
Tiwari insisted that Govil join the film to connect the new version with the earlier series.
Some viewers have compared Govil’s Rama with Kapoor’s, and Govil said his portrayal remains a touchstone for many people.
The film is the first part of a two-part story and is currently in cinemas.
The second part is expected in 2028.
Arun Govil said he initially did not want to play King Dashrath in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana.
He said Tiwari was insistent and wanted to connect the new film with the earlier television series Ramayan.
Govil played Lord Rama in the 1987–88 TV series and plays Rama’s father in the new film.
Ranbir Kapoor plays Rama, with Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman.
The film is the first part of a two-part story, with the second part scheduled for release in 2028.
- Who
- Arun Govil, actor who plays King Dashrath in the new Ramayana.
- What
- He said he was initially reluctant to take the role. Director Nitesh Tiwari wanted him to join the film to link it with the earlier Ramayan.
- When
- In a recent interview reported on November 10, 2026.
- Where
- Not stated
- Why
- Govil said Tiwari was insistent and wanted a connection between the two versions of Ramayan.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The Doordarshan series Ramayan aired with Arun Govil playing Lord Rama.
Nitesh Tiwari cast Govil as King Dashrath, though Govil said he was initially reluctant.
Reports published Govil’s comments about his casting and the connection between the two versions.
The second part of the film is scheduled for release.
- Actor
- Arun Govil
- Role in new film
- King Dashrath
- Director
- Nitesh Tiwari
- Earlier TV role
- Lord Rama in Ramayan
- New film cast
- Ranbir Kapoor as Rama; Sai Pallavi as Sita; Yash as Ravana; Ravie Dubey as Lakshman
- Second part
- Scheduled for release in 2028
3 sources
Arun Govil Wasn't Keen On Playing Dashrath In Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana, Director Had One Request
Arun Govil who played King Dashrat in 'Ramayana' reveals he 'didn't want to do this role'
Arun Govil didn't want to play Dashrath in Ramayana, says Nitesh Tiwari wanted a connection with Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan
What people are saying
To be honest, initially, I didn’t want to do this role. But Nitesh Tiwari, the director, was insistent.
They wanted some connect between our Ramayan and this Ramayana.
That perhaps is also because my performance as Lord Rama became the touchstone.