Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is one of India’s most anticipated epics, and it has just drawn a pointed critique from a screen legend. Mukesh Khanna, famous as Shaktimaan and Bhishma Pitamah in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, says the film’s trailer shows Lord Rama in a way he doesn’t recognise.
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What Mukesh Khanna Said?
Speaking to Bollywood Now on YouTube, Khanna singled out a trailer sequence where Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama climbs a tree and shoots arrows. He said he had never come across that depiction in the versions of the epic he had read or watched.
In his view, Rama is Maryada Purushottam, a calm figure known for his smile. He argued that the film turns him into a “man of action” in the mould of a mainstream action star, even comparing him to Clint Eastwood. His blunt verdict on the fighting style: “Ramji aise fight nahi karte the.”
On the VFX
Khanna also questioned the film’s large-scale visual effects. He believes international audiences may see Ramayana mainly as a fantasy spectacle, while Indian viewers will connect Rama’s portrayal with their faith. His message to the makers was to show Rama with reverence in India.
Mukesh Khanna: Ramayana at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Director | Nitesh Tiwari |
| Lord Rama | Ranbir Kapoor |
| Sita | Sai Pallavi |
| Ravana | Yash |
| Also starring | Sunny Deol, Ravie Dubey, Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, Rakul Preet Singh, Vivek Oberoi |
| Part 1 | Diwali 2026 |
| Part 2 | Diwali 2027 |
Conclusion
This is one person’s opinion, and the debate is about artistic choices. Epics are retold differently across generations. Some viewers want a modern, cinematic Rama, while others prefer the gentler tradition of earlier adaptations. The report doesn’t include a response from the makers.
Fans will get their own answer when the first part arrives this Diwali.
Want more? Read our latest entertainment news and our Bollywood updates. Learn more about Mukesh Khanna.
FAQs
What did Mukesh Khanna criticise in Ramayana?
He objected to the action-heavy portrayal of Lord Rama and the extensive VFX.
When does Ramayana release?
Part 1 arrives during Diwali 2026 and Part 2 during Diwali 2027.
