Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is creating waves at the box office following its release on November 5, 2026. But even before the film arrived in cinemas, the film had sparked discussions about the casting. Ramayan’s OG Lord Rama, Arun Govil, was roped in as King Dashrath in his film, which impressed many. However, in a recent interview, Arun Govil revealed that initially he did not want to play King Dashrath and it was the director Nitesh Tiwari’s insistence that convinced him.

Arun Govil reveals he did not want to play Dashrath

For the unversed, Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, while Arun Govil plays the role of his father, Ayodhya’s King Dashratha. Talking about taking up the role, Govil told Variety India, “Had I felt it wasn't right, I would not have done it. To be honest, initially, I didn't want to do this role. But Nitesh Tiwari, the director, was insistent. They wanted some connect between our Ramayan and this Ramayana.”