For millions, Dipika Chikhlia is more than just an actress; she is still “Mother Sita.” Her portrayal of Sita in Ramanand Sagar’s classic ‘Ramayana’ left a lasting mark. Recently, when the teaser for Nitesh Tiwari’s new film ‘Ramayana’ came out, Chikhlia shared her thoughts with Amar Ujala Digital. She spoke candidly about her impressions of the modern retelling.
Chikhlia admitted she liked the movie’s visual effects. However, she quickly added a crucial point. “Ramayana isn’t just about cool graphics or new technology,” she explained. “It’s a story brimming with feeling.” She felt the teaser looked very modern, from its lighting to its color palette. She wondered if the powerful emotions of the story would get lost amidst the grand scale and special effects. The original ‘Ramayana’ had limited technology, but it connected deeply with people’s hearts.
– Photo : Instagram- @iamnamitmalhotra
A Familiar Face as Ram
When asked about Ranbir Kapoor as Ram, Chikhlia had a touching response. “Seeing Ranbir as Ram immediately brought Arun Govil to mind,” she shared. “It’s hard for me to imagine anyone else as Ram. For 35 to 40 years, he has been Ram for all of us.”
– Photo : Instagram
Sai Pallavi as Sita: A New Take
For the role of Sita, Sai Pallavi has been cast. Chikhlia offered her thoughts on this choice. “Sai Pallavi is a wonderful actress,” she said. “I’ve seen her work in Malayalam films. Her acting style is very natural.” Chikhlia trusts Sai Pallavi will do a good job with the character. She also noted that Sai Pallavi’s portrayal would naturally be different from her own.
– Photo : [email protected]
The Challenge of Iconic Roles
Chikhlia shared a unique perspective on playing such revered characters. When she and Arun Govil first appeared in ‘Ramayana’, they were new faces. This helped people truly accept them as divine figures. “Even now, people see Arun ji and me as Ram and Sita,” she stated. However, she believes it might be tougher for today’s actors. Many of them are already well-known for playing various roles. It could be harder for audiences to then accept them as gods.
– Photo : Social Media
Arun Govil as Dasharatha: A Surprising Twist
In the new film, Arun Govil, who played Ram, will now play Dasharatha. This news brought an emotional reaction from Chikhlia. “When I saw him as Dasharatha on social media, my heart just said, ‘That’s Ram ji!'” she admitted. She found it a bit difficult to see him in the new role. She feels he still carries the same calm and image of Ram.
– Photo : Amar Ujala Bureau, Mumbai
Forever Sita
Chikhlia also confirmed that no one contacted her about being in the new ‘Ramayana’ film. She remains firm about her connection to the story. “I’ve always said I am only Sita,” she stated. “I cannot see myself in any other role in ‘Ramayana’.” While she might consider other epic tales like ‘Mahabharata’, ‘Ramayana’ is different for her.
– Photo : Instagram
Beyond the Budget: The Soul of Ramayana
The new ‘Ramayana’ film has a massive budget, reportedly around 850 crore rupees. Chikhlia addressed this, emphasizing her main concern. “Ramayana is not just a story,” she said. “It’s about deep relationships and devotion.” She believes showing these true feelings needs emotion, not just money. “Ramayana is something you feel, not just watch,” she stressed. Her biggest worry remains: will the real feelings and devotion get lost behind the big budget and visuals? She believes the true ‘Ramayana’ is one filled with devotion and heartfelt emotions.
– Photo : IMDb