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Nitesh Tiwari’s ‘Ramayana’ has been the talk of the town ever since ‘Adipurush’ released in 2023. Soon after, reports emerged that Ranbir Kapoor would step into the role of Lord Ram. This was followed by a wave of speculation, viral videos of the actor preparing for the part and reports about the ensemble cast. The project was eventually made official by producers Namit Malhotra and ‘KFG’ star Yash, who will also be playing the role of Ravana in the film. While several actors associated with the film have often spoken about Ranbir’s dedication, this marks the first time the actor himself has opened up about being offered the role, his initial fears and how the film has been a life-changing experience. Speaking at a Q&A during the New York special IMAX trailer screening, Ranbir recalled his first reaction when Namit approached him. “Coming to play Lord Ram, I remember when Namit offered me this part around four years back, my instant reaction was: ‘I am not fit enough, good enough’. I felt I wouldn’t be able to do full justice. But that fear quickly turned into gratitude because opportunities like this were something I truly needed in my life,” he said. He added that the timing of the role coincided with a deep personal phase. “There was a period when I needed to change my lifestyle. I had just become a father for the first time. The sweet coincidence of playing Lord Ram and becoming a father became a turning point in my life.” Ranbir also shared how ‘Ramayana’ played a crucial role in his preparation. “For me, the preparation began the day I watched Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayana. It is so deeply etched in our subconscious and rooted in us that we feel immense pride in Lord Rama’s journey. When I got the opportunity to portray him, I knew the preparation had to go beyond the physical - it had to be emotional and spiritual. One has to be truthful to the character, because he is loved by billions across centuries and will continue to be long after we are gone,” he said. He concluded by expressing gratitude for the opportunity. “The responsibility is something I take very seriously. I have immense love and respect for this part and for the story of ‘Ramayana’. When that conviction is in place, everything else falls into place.”