New Delhi: Actor Rajiv Kumar appears to have a crucial role in Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited Ramayana, but his character has remained under wraps. Now,
reports circulating online claim that the actor is set to portray Raja Janak, the father of Sita, in the two-part epic starring Ranbir Kapoor and Yash.
Kumar had earlier hinted at his association with the ambitious project without revealing details about his character. If the latest reports are accurate, he will be joining an impressive cast assembled for one of the most anticipated Indian films in recent years.
Rajiv’s mystery role
Kumar seemingly dropped a hint about his involvement in Ramayana in July when he shared the film’s trailer on Instagram.
“A privilege beyond words to be part of a journey that celebrates the legacy of Ramayana. Grateful beyond measure. Yeh Hai Ram Ke Yug Ka Aarambh,” he wrote.
While Kumar did not disclose which character he plays, his post confirmed that he is part of the project. His reported casting as Raja Janak has now added another interesting name to the film’s ensemble.
Ramayana Exclusive : Actor Rajiv Kumar is reportedly playing an important role in Ramayana, He is mostly playing the Iconic character of Raja Janak in the Movie. pic.twitter.com/1kh7Rl1lF0
— KBP Reviews🏹 (@KshitizCritic) August 30, 2026
The Janak legacy
If Kumar is indeed playing Raja Janak, he will be taking on a character that has previously been portrayed by several actors across different Ramayana adaptations.
Mulraj Rajda played Janak in Ramanand Sagar’s iconic 1987 television series Ramayan. This characters were played by Pradeep Sharma in Ramayan (2002), Gyan Prakash in Ramayan (2008), Bijay Anand in Siya Ke Ram (2015), and Jiten Lalwani in Shrimad Ramayan (2024).
Cast and release plans
Ramayana will be released in a two-part cinematic adaptation, with Ranbir Kapoor playing Lord Ram and Sai Pallavi portraying Sita. Yash has been cast as Ravana.
The film has generated considerable anticipation because of its reported Rs 4,000 crore budget, large ensemble cast and ambitious scale. The makers are also planning a worldwide theatrical release for the epic.
The first part of Ramayana is scheduled to arrive around Diwali 2026. The makers announced that the film will release internationally on November 6 and in India on November 8. The second instalment is scheduled to release during Diwali 2027.
While Rajiv Kumar’s reported casting as Raja Janak has created fresh buzz around the project, the makers are yet to officially confirm his character.
