Dipika Chikhlia Thinks Arun Govil Being Cast As 'Dasharath' In Ranbir's 'Ramayana' Is Out Of Context

The first look of Nitesh Tiwari's epic, Ramayana, was shared with the world on July 3, 2025, leaving everyone in awe. Despite the few-second glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor as 'Ram' in the teaser, the excitement is already soaring high. Recently, it was announced that Arun Govil will play the role of 'Shri Ram's' father, 'Dasharath', in the film, and now his co-star, Dipika Chikhlia, has reacted to the news.

Dipika Chikhlia reacts to Arun Govil playing the role of 'Dasharath' in Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana

Dipika Chikhlia recently sat for a conversation with The Times of India and shared her views on Arun Govil being cast as 'Dasharath' in the upcoming magnum opus, Ramayana. For the unversed, Arun played the role of 'Shri Ram' in Ramanand Sagar's 1987 series, Ramayan, which remains the OG even after almost three decades. Dipika essayed the role of 'Devi Sita' in the series and was asked about her opinion on the casting decision. The actress, during the conversation, was quoted as saying:

"I have seen him as Ram, and I've seen myself as Sita. For me to see him as Dasarath is really a little out of context."

In the same conversation, Dipika admitted that playing 'Dasharath' after essaying the role of 'Shri Ram' was Arun Govil's personal choice. She added that while it would be an extremely difficult mould to break, given how long he had been associated with the image. She further shared that for her, he was and will always be 'Ram'.

Dipika Chikhlia on not being approached for Ramayana 

In the same conversation, Dipika Chikhlia expressed her disappointment over not being approached to be a part of the new film. She revealed that the makers of Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayan didn't talk to her. However, she added that even if she were approached, she would not have taken on the role, as she cannot picture herself in any role other than that of 'Maa Sita'. Dipika also admitted that she is open to acting in other epic-based films, such as Mahabharata and Shiv Puran, but it won't be possible for her to play any other role in Ramayan. She was quoted as saying:

"I was never approached. I guess they’ve not even bothered to speak to me about it. Once I played Sita, I don’t think I can play any other character in Ramayan."

More about Ramayana

The Ramayana is being directed by Nitesh Tiwari and co-written by Namit Malhotra, who is also co-producing the film alongside South superstar, Yash. The film will be released in two parts, with the first part scheduled for Diwali 2026 and the second part for Diwali 2027. Yash is playing the role of 'Ravana', Ranbir Kapoor stars as 'Ram', Sai Pallavi plays 'Sita', Ravi Dubey will be seen in the role of 'Ram's' brother, 'Laxman' and the role of 'Hanuman' will be essayed by Sunny Deol. The film's music is composed by Hollywood legend, Hans Zimmer and Indian maestro, AR Rahman. The film is expected to be the most expensive Indian film, with a massive production budget of Rs. 1,600 crore. 

What are your thoughts on Dipika Chikhlia's revelations? Let us know.

Next Read: Anurag Kashyap's Daughter, Aaliyah Gets Married To Shane Gregoire 'AGAIN' In A Dreamy White Wedding

AWESOME NEWS! Now you can download BollywoodShaadis app and never miss a story. Get App

AWESOME NEWS! Now you can download BollywoodShaadis app and never miss a story. Choose your device Android or IOS (Apple)