New Delhi: Ranbir Kapoor has put considerable time and effort into preparing for his role as Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited film Ramayana. The
actor recently revealed that his preparation began nearly 18 months before filming, with archery training being an important part of the process.
From learning the right techniques to understanding the character’s personality, Ranbir‘s preparation went beyond the usual demands of an acting role. He also attended special workshops to work on his movement, breathing and physicality.
Ranbir Kapoor learnt Archery for Ramayana
In a recent conversation with Review Nation, Ranbir opened up about the training that went into playing Lord Rama. He revealed that he worked with an Indian Olympian to learn archery, as the character is known for his skill with the bow and arrow. The actor began this preparation around a year and a half before the film went on floors and also spent some time in New York attending classes.
Ranbir said, “Lord Rama was a great archer. So, about a year and a half before we started filming, I worked with an Indian Olympian on the right technique. I was in New York for some time, and I also took some classes. The deeper part, however, was to understand the essence of who Lord Rama is. You can read as much as you want and see different interpretations, but eventually, what soul are you putting into the character? I could be playing Lord Rama, but the soul is mine. How do I change that? How do I bring a new soul?”
Ranbir Kapoor on Preparing for Lord Rama:✨🏹
“I took training from an Indian Olympian archer for a year and a half to get the technique right but that’s all superficial stuff you get to do as an actor. The real challenge is understanding the essence of who Lord Rama is and what soul you bring to the character, because eventually, the soul is yours.”
— 𝓐𝔂𝓪𝓷 🚩 (@behind_you_rk) November 2, 2026
Terry Notary helped Ranbir Kapoor physical training
Apart from archery, Ranbir also worked with renowned action and movement specialist Terry Notary. Known for his work in films such as the Planet of the Apes franchise, X2 and Superman Returns, Terry conducted workshops that focused on much more than action sequences.
Ranbir said, “Terry Notary had workshops where he taught us breathing techniques, how to walk, how to climb a tree and things like that. As actors, we are so lucky and grateful that we get to learn new skills with new movies. But Ramayana will always be special because it is the most beloved story with beloved characters. So doing all of this was awesome.”
All About Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana
Directed byNitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra, Ramayana: Part 1 is the first instalment of a planned two-part adaptation of the Indian epic. The film features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as Ravana. Sunny Deol will be seen playing Hanuman, while Ravie Dubey essays the role of Lakshman. The film was released worldwide on November 5.
The film recently had its premiere at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles on October 27, bringing its cast and creative team together ahead of its theatrical release. It also had a screening in London on November 1, followed by a Mumbai premiere on November 3.
Written By Uditi Sharma!
