Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming directorial Ramayana is one of the most highly anticipated films, not only for its storyline but also for its impressive cast. The casting of the Ranbir Kapoor starrer has been creating waves lately. Ranbir Kapoor will be seen stepping into the role of Lord Ram, while Sai Pallavi will play Sita. Joining them are Yash as Raavan and Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman. Apart from these characters, the role of Surpanakha has been a topic of discussion. Rakul Preet Singh is reportedly set to play this role, but do you know who was Nitesh Tiwari's first choice before her? It was none other than Priyanka Chopra. According to the latest buzz, she was approached by the makers for the film but seemingly stepped back from being part of this live-action epic drama.

Priyanka Chopra Was First Choice For Surpanakha 

Priyanka was approached for this pivotal role, but due to her already tied-up schedule, she stepped back. "Surpanakha is one of the main reasons the Ramayan took place. The makers were keen on having Priyanka Chopra for the same role. But things didn't work out owing to her packed schedule with international projects. That's when Rakul came on board. She fitted the role perfectly and brought intensity and a fresh take to the character," a source quoted by ETimes.

 
 
 
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Ramayana Movie Cast

The movie, which is based on the Hindu epic Ramayana, will be released in two parts. The first part is slated for November 2026, and the second part will follow in November 2027. To bring this epic drama to the screen, actors like Ranbir Kapoor will play the central role, with Sai Pallavi making her Bollywood debut with this project. Ranbir will face off against KGF star Yash, who will portray the role of Ravana. Ravi Dubey will play Lakshman. Several reports suggest Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi and Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari.

 
 
 
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ALSO READ: Ramayana Update: Kajal Aggarwal Joins Ranbir Kapoor Starrer Movie As Mandodari Opposite Yash’s Ravana

Not only that, Mohit Raina, known for portraying Lord Shiva in the TV show Devon Ke Dev Mahadev, is also expected to play Shiva in the movie. The star cast reportedly also includes Kunal Kapoor, Vivek Oberoi, and others.

ALSO READ: R Madhavan To Join Priyanka Chopra And Mahesh Babu In SS Rajamouli’s Epic Movie SSMB29? Here’s What We Know

Meanwhile, Priyanka is busy gearing up for Heads of State,which is set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video on July 2. The series also stars John Cena and Idris Elba in lead.

She also has action drama film The Bluff, directed by Frank E Flowers.

Apart from Hollywood projects, Priyanka is reportedly set to be seen in S. S. Rajamouli's upcoming movie SSMB29, starring Mahesh Babu.