Ramayana's Surpanakha is very misunderstood: Rakul Preet Singh
Actor Rakul Preet Singh is looking forward to bringing a different side of Surpanakha to the screen in Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming film Ramayana: Rise of a Legend. While the film's trailer sparked discussions about Ranbir Kapoor's look as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and the scale of the mythological epic, Rakul's brief appearance as Surpanakha also caught viewers' attention. The actor has now opened up about what drew her to the role, describing the character as complex and often misunderstood.
Speaking to news agency PTI, Rakul explained that the opportunity to represent Indian culture to a global audience was one of the reasons she was excited about the film. She also spoke about the different layers of Surpanakha's character.
"I think what was so exciting were a couple of things. First, it's India's representation to the world. Our history, our truth represented to the world's first ever-global film. Secondly, Surpanakha is a very misunderstood and layered character. She was the reason why the war takes place in the first place. So it has been really interesting to play someone with multiple shades," she said.
Rakul had earlier responded to a fan letter about her casting by sharing it on X. She explained that Surpanakha's complexity was what convinced her to take up the role.
"Thank you for this beautiful letter. What made me say yes to Surpanakha was exactly what you mentioned - her complexity. History often remembers her for one moment, but there is so much more to her story. As an actor, roles that challenge perception are the most exciting. I hope audiences discover her with an open mind when Ramayana arrives," she wrote.Why Surpanakha is important to Ramayana
In the Ramayana, Surpanakha, Ravana's sister, plays a significant role in the chain of events that leads to the war between Lord Rama and Ravana. After an encounter with Lord Rama and Lakshman, she approaches her brother, and the events that follow eventually lead to Ravana abducting Sita. Rama's attempt to rescue his wife culminates in the battle against Ravana.
Rakul's comments suggest that the film will explore the character beyond her role in setting these events in motion.About Ramayana
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is the latest screen adaptation of the ancient Indian epic attributed to sage Valmiki. The story follows Lord Rama, played by Ranbir Kapoor, as he sets out to rescue his wife, Sita, played by Sai Pallavi, after she is abducted by Ravana, portrayed by Yash.
The film also features Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha. Backed by Namit Malhotra and Yash, the project is reportedly being made on a budget of around Rs 4,000 crore for its two parts combined.
The first instalment titled Ramayana: Rise of a Legend is scheduled to release in theatres on November 5, 2026, ahead of Diwali, while the second part is expected to arrive during Diwali 2027.- Ends
