Is This Why Yash Said Yes to Play Ravana?

Ramayana is one of the most anticipated releases of this year. This Nitesh Tiwari directorial features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as Ravana. The recently released teaser, introducing Ranbir as Rama, generated huge buzz among the audience despite some mixed reactions. Now, they are eagerly awaiting the first-look teaser of Yash as Ravana.

When it was announced that Yash would be playing the role of Ravana, everyone wondered why he chose to do a negative role, especially after scoring two pan-India blockbusters, KGF and KGF 2. But Nitesh Tiwari’s recent statements about Ravana’s character design in the film make one think this might be the reason Yash signed the role.

In a recent interview with The Times of India, Nitesh Tiwari said that instead of showing Ravana just as a menacing villain, Ramayana showcases both his strengths and weaknesses. He stated that Ravana will be presented in a complex manner rather than in a one-dimensional way.

He said that the film shows not only the powerful nature of Ravana but also his supreme knowledge and talent. He added that there are many layers to Ravana, as he was a great warrior, musician, able king, and a true devotee of Lord Shiva. Nitesh opined that there are many shades to him, rather than him being just a negative character.

Nitesh opined that it was important for him to showcase all these aspects, as they hide a great lesson: if a man is overdriven by his ego and vengeance, none of his great qualities matters, and he ends up like Ravana.

Even Ranbir Kapoor said that Ravana’s interpretation in this film will be very different from what we have seen in other Ramayana films over the years. He added that only an actor with the huge stardom and aura of Yash could pull off this role.

Apart from acting, Yash also serves as a co producer of this film. He is producing Ramayana along with Namit Malhotra. Ramayana is being made in two parts, with the first part scheduled for release during Diwali 2026 and the second part on Diwali 2027.