Bobby Deol as Kumbhakarna, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi in Nitesh Tiwari's ‘Ramayan’: Reports

Director Nitesh Tiwari is in advanced discussions with Lara Dutta for the role of Kaikeyi in his upcoming film, ‘Ramayan,’ according to Pinkvilla. He's also keen on roping in Bobby Deol for Kumbhkaran's part, and negotiations are underway with Sunny Deol for the role of Lord Hanuman.

Tiwari aims to cast actors perfectly suited for the iconic characters in this timeless Indian historical tale.

‘Nitesh Tiwari wants to cast actors who are apt to play the characters belonging to the most timeless tale of Indian History. He feels Lara Dutta is perfect to play the part of Princess Kaikeyi, the third consort of King Dasharatha. It’s a pivotal character that leads to the entire conflict in Ramayana, and Lara is excited to enter the fantastical world of Nitesh Tiwari,’ a source close to the development said.

The upcoming ‘Ramayan’ film is envisioned as a trilogy, with Lara Dutta taking on a significant role in ‘Ramayan: Part One.’ She is expected to join Ranbir Kapoor during the initial shoot scheduled for March.

While the casting is a work in progress for other characters, Nitesh Tiwari is eager to have Bobby Deol play Kumbhkaran. However, there's been no response from Bobby Deol yet, as he's currently evaluating numerous offers following the success of ‘Animal.’

‘Bobby is yet to get back to Nitesh Tiwari on Ramayana. He might or might not do the film, and will take a call in the next 2 months. Post the success of Animal, Bobby is right now flooded with offers from across the industry and he will be making his choices over the coming few months,’ the source said.

The team of ‘Ramayan’ is in advanced discussions with Sunny Deol, a prospect that excites both Nitesh Tiwari and Ranbir Kapoor. In the film, Ranbir will portray Lord Ram, while Sai Pallavi is cast as Sita. Additionally, Kannada actor Yash, renowned for his role in KGF, is set to play Ravana, as previously reported by Pinkvilla.

Also Watch: Ayushmann Khurrana, Asha Bhosle invited for Ram Mandir's Pran Pratistha ceremony in Ayodhya