Mumbai: From television’s unforgettable villains to larger-than-life cinematic interpretations, several talented actors have brought the legendary character
of Ravan to life over the years.
Ravan, the powerful king of Lanka from the Ramayana, has long been one of the most fascinating characters in Indian mythology. Known for his intelligence, devotion to Lord Shiva, immense strength and arrogance, the ten-headed ruler has inspired numerous portrayals across Indian cinema and television.
While some actors have presented Ravan as a terrifying antagonist, others have explored his complexity, highlighting his pride, knowledge and emotional conflicts. Yash is the latest actor to portray the legendary character in Nitesh Tiwari-directed Ramayana film. Here’s a look at actors who have played Ravan on screen in the past.
1. Arvind Trivedi – Ramayan (1987)
Arvind Trivedi’s portrayal of Ravan in Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan remains one of the most memorable performances in Indian television history. His commanding voice, expressive eyes and powerful dialogue delivery made his interpretation of the evil king instantly recognisable. Even decades after the show’s original broadcast, his performance continues to be remembered by audiences.
2. Akhilendra Mishra – Ramayan (2008)
Akhilendra Mishra stepped into the role of Ravan in Anand Sagar’s 2008 television adaptation of Ramayan. The actor brought intensity and theatrical flair to the character, portraying Lanka’s ruler as a proud and formidable king. His performance offered a different interpretation of a role already made famous by earlier adaptations.
3. Saif Ali Khan – Adipurush (2023)
Saif Ali Khan took on the role of Lankesh in Om Raut’s mythological film Adipurush. His portrayal featured a striking appearance, elaborate visual effects and a darker interpretation of Ravan. The film attracted criticism over its creative choices about characterisation of its central characters and many other elements of the film.
4. Nikitin Dheer – Shrimad Ramayan (2024)
Nikitin Dheer portrayed Ravan in the television series Shrimad Ramayan. Known for his imposing physique and strong screen presence, the actor brought a menacing quality to the ruler of Lanka. His portrayal emphasised Ravan’s authority, ambition and confidence, introducing the character to a new generation of television viewers.
5. Tarun Khanna – Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev
Tarun Khanna appeared as Ravan in the mythological television series Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev. His interpretation explored the character’s connection with Lord Shiva, highlighting the contrast between Ravan’s deep devotion and overwhelming ego. The role allowed audiences to see a different side of the legendary antagonist.
6. Om Puri – Bharat Ek Khoj (1988)
Late actor Om Puri portrayed Ravan in Shyam Benegal’s acclaimed television series Bharat Ek Khoj. Known for his natural acting style and remarkable versatility, Puri brought depth and gravitas to the mythological character. His portrayal formed part of a series that explored India’s rich history, literature and cultural traditions.
7. Karthik Jayaram – Siya Ke Ram (2015)
Karthik Jayaram, popularly known as JK, played Ravan in the television series Siya Ke Ram. The show presented the epic largely through Sita’s perspective, offering a fresh approach to the familiar story. Jayaram’s portrayal captured Ravan’s pride, intelligence and intimidating personality, making him a significant presence in the series.
8. NT Rama Rao – Seetha Rama Kalyanam (1961)
Legendary Telugu actor NT Rama Rao portrayed Ravan in the mythological film Seetha Rama Kalyanam. His performance presented the king of Lanka as a powerful and complex figure. The film remains an important example of how mythological characters were brought to life during the golden era of Telugu cinema.
9. BM Vyas – Sampoorna Ramayana (1961)
BM Vyas played Ravan in the classic Hindi mythological film Sampoorna Ramayana. His performance reflected the dramatic acting style associated with early Indian mythological cinema. With an authoritative presence and expressive delivery, Vyas helped establish a memorable cinematic image of Lanka’s ruler.
10. Abhishek Bachchan – Raavan (2010)
Although Abhishek Bachchan did not portray the mythological Ravan directly, his character Beera Munda in Mani Ratnam’s Raavan was inspired by the epic’s central antagonist. The film reimagined elements of the Ramayana in a contemporary setting, exploring morality, revenge and the blurred boundaries between good and evil.
Yash brings a new Ravan to the big screen
After several memorable portrayals across generations, Kannada superstar Yash has taken up the role of Ravan in the two-part film adaptation of the Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari. Ever since the film’s release, Yash’s performance has generated discussions among audiences about how the actor has interpreted one of Indian mythology’s most complex characters.
