Lord Ram, the maryada purushottama, continues to guide millions through his eternal story. With Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir consecration anniversary approaching, let’s celebrate the screen legends who immortalized him, bridging mythology with modern entertainment.
Telugu cinema boasts a rich tradition of Ramayana adaptations. NTR Sr. dazzled in multiple films, including the blockbuster ‘Lava Kusa’ and heartfelt ‘Sita Rama Kalyanam.’ His divine charisma set an unmatched standard.
Jr. NTR’s turn as child Ram in ‘Bala Ramayanam’ (1997) was a revelation. This award-winning film, helmed by Gunasekhar, retold the exile through youthful eyes, with Smita Madhav shining as Sita. It not only entertained kids but also instilled values early.
Shobhan Babu’s ‘Sampoorna Ramayanam’ (1972) offered a complete narrative arc, pairing him perfectly with Chandrakala. Balakrishna’s ‘Sri Rama Rajyam’ elevated the post-Ramrajya era, with Nayanthara and Srikanth in pivotal roles. ‘Sri Ramadasu’ (2006), starring Suman as Ram, became a box-office sensation.
Hindi audiences owe their visual Ram to Arun Govil’s portrayal in the legendary ‘Ramayan’ serial. Ramanand Sagar’s production transcended TV, becoming a cultural phenomenon that still evokes nostalgia and devotion.
The big screen saw Jeetendra as Ram in ‘Lav Kush’ (1987), a Uttara Kanda-focused drama with Jaya Prada and Govil. Though commercially modest, it holds nostalgic value.
Gurmeet Choudhary’s 2008 ‘Ramayan’ brought fresh energy, boosting his career alongside Debina’s Sita. Ashish Sharma in ‘Siya Ke Ram’ offered a poetic take, gaining massive fan loyalty with its strong ensemble.
Prabhas’s ambitious ‘Adipurush’ (2023) reimagined the epic with VFX spectacle. Kriti Sanon and Saif Ali Khan’s performances fueled debates, but Prabhas’s commitment resonated with devotees.
These actors didn’t just play Ram; they became vessels for his message, ensuring the Ramayana’s relevance in pop culture.