Nitesh Tiwari‘s ‘Ramayana’ has remained one of the most talked-about upcoming Indian films ever since its trailer was unveiled. As anticipation continues to build around the mythological epic, actor Ajinkya Deo has shared an interesting story about his casting journey. The actor revealed that he originally auditioned for the role of King Dashrath before eventually being selected to portray Sage Vishwamitra.
Ajinkya Deo’s unexpected casting journey
Ajinkya Deo revealed that he first auditioned for the role of King Dashrath nearly three years ago. However, as the project progressed, the makers finalised veteran actor Arun Govil for the role. The actor said he believed the decision was the right one and was later offered the role of Vishwamitra.Talking to Mid-day, Ajinkya said, “I was auditioned. But incidentally, when I was auditioned, it was for the role of Dasharath, and this was like three years ago. But as it went across and as things started moving, Arunji (Arun Govil) came along, which was the best thing that could have happened. He was the perfect Dasharath. And then they offered me Vishwamitra, which of course I lapped up because I know the gravitas of that role in Ramayana.”The actor added that he had no hesitation in accepting the role because of its importance in the epic.
Look tests helped shape the character
Ajinkya also spoke about the preparations that followed his casting. He revealed that the makers conducted several look tests before finalising his appearance as Vishwamitra. According to the actor, the creative team was pleased with the final look, making the experience even more memorable.He said, “And then we had a couple of look tests and everything, and it really shaped up very well. They were very happy to see me in that get-up. And so it was a fantastic feeling to have been given this role. And as everybody said at the Pratham Sankalp trailer launch in Delhi, the main characters are chosen by the Lord himself.”The actor described the opportunity as a special milestone in his career.
Why Vishwamitra felt like the right role
Reflecting on the casting process, Ajinkya said that although he had initially aimed for another character, Vishwamitra ultimately suited him better.He explained, “It just came to me. So, as I said, I was auditioning for something else, and then I landed up playing this role, and I feel this was more apt for me in any case. It basically worked better for me because of my personality in general.”
Filming came with unique challenges
The actor also opened up about the technical demands of working on Ramayana. Since the film relies heavily on visual effects, several scenes required actors to perform with markers and precise blocking that would later be enhanced through CGI.Ajinkya admitted that adapting to this style of filmmaking was initially difficult.He said, “It was initially very difficult to adjust to that. If you ask me, it was difficult because there were certain points where there were markers on you. There were places where you had to stop exactly because everything was designed for what was going to be seen later.”
A star-studded mythological epic
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, ‘Ramayana’ stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. The ensemble cast also features Sunny Deol, Ravie Dubey, Arun Govil, Rakul Preet Singh, Lara Dutta, Vivek Oberoi and Kunal Kapoor in pivotal roles.‘Ramayana’ is scheduled to release its first installment in November 2026.