The makers of Ramayana have unveiled new character posters featuring Lara Dutta as Queen Kaikeyi and Sheeba Chadha as Manthara, offering a first look at the two characters whose actions influence the course of events in the epic. The latest reveal brings additional members of the film’s ensemble into focus as anticipation builds around the upcoming two-part adaptation.
The makers shared the posters on social media with the caption, “A queen. A mother. Two wishes that would betray a father’s love and change Rama’s destiny forever. A cunning mind. Whose whispers would turn a mother’s love into a kingdom’s darkest hour. Lara Dutta as Queen Kaikeyi. Sheeba Chadha as Manthara.”
In her character poster, Lara Dutta appears as Queen Kaikeyi in elaborate traditional attire and jewellery, reflecting the character’s royal standing in Ayodhya. Sheeba Chadha’s poster presents her as Manthara, with the actor seen holding a staff. The visual reveals introduce the characters’ appearances without disclosing further details about their portrayal in the film.
The latest announcement follows the unveiling of Arun Govil as King Dashrath. Govil, who became widely associated with the role of Lord Rama through his portrayal in the television series Ramayan, will play the king of Ayodhya in the upcoming film. His casting brings another familiar face associated with the epic’s screen adaptations into the new production.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Rocking Star Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman. The film is being developed as a two-part cinematic adaptation of the Indian epic, with the makers gradually revealing the actors and characters who will feature in the project.
The production is led by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release during Diwali 2026, while Ramayana: Part 2 is slated to arrive during Diwali 2027. The films are planned for release in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, with an IMAX release also planned.
