Actors Bringing Ravana to Life on Screen: A Look at Bollywood Interpretations

The festival of Vijayadashami, celebrated widely across India, marks the triumph of good over evil, symbolized by Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. As the festive season approaches, it is timely to reflect on how Bollywood has been inspired by these mythological stories, particularly the character of Ravana, in its films.

Arjun Kapoor, known for his performances in various Bollywood films, is set to break the mold with a negative role in the upcoming film, “Singham Again.” In this film, slated to release around Diwali, Kapoor’s character draws inspiration from Ravana, presenting a modern-day antagonist that resonates with audiences. The film’s trailer has already teased his portrayal, hinting at a fierce and formidable adversary.

Similarly, Arjun Rampal made a memorable impact with his villainous role named ‘Ra.One’ in the sci-fi film “Ra.One,” directed by Anubhav Sinha. The character of Ra.One was heavily inspired by Ravana, showcasing Rampal’s ability to embody complex and menacing personas on screen.

Another notable depiction of a Ravana-inspired character was brought to life by Abhishek Bachchan. In Mani Ratnam‘s film “Raavan,” Bachchan played a role reminiscent of Dashanan, exhibiting emotional depth and internal conflict that offered a nuanced take on the traditional villain.

Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan’s portrayal of Ravana in Om Raut’s “Adipurush” stirred significant public and critical discourse. This film, featuring Prabhas as Lord Ram, faced backlash for its screenplay and visual effects, yet Khan’s exaggerated depiction of Ravana was notable for its divergence from traditional interpretations.

Drawing from mythological tales, Srikanth Odela’s “Dussehra” featured Shine Tom Chacko in a role inspired by Ravana, presenting a narrative of good versus evil with a fresh perspective. The film reflects the enduring fascination of filmmakers with these age-old epics and their characters.

The enduring appeal of Ravana is evident as actors such as Arvind Trivedi, Akhilendra Mishra, and Karthik Jayaram among others, have embraced the character on television, each bringing their unique interpretation to the multifaceted villain. Their portrayals have not only entertained but also stimulated discussions around character representation and mythology.