One of Bollywood’s most versatile actors, Amit Sial, known for Maharani, The Hunt, Raid 2 and Kesari 2, is taking a leap into mythological cinema with Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious Ramayana. Box Office Worldwide brings you exclusively that Sial has been cast as Sugriv, with shooting already underway this August at a suburban Mumbai studio.
Amit Sial’s Career Momentum with Raid 2 and Kesari 2
Amit Sial’s career has been on an upward trajectory. After earning acclaim in the digital space, he has been now appearing in big-screen outings like Raid 2 alongside Ajay Devgn and in the upcoming Kesari 2. Both films place him in significant roles, expanding his presence in mainstream cinema. His addition to Ramayana further reinforces his standing as one of the most versatile performers of his generation.
The Kanpur-born actor has carved a unique place in the industry. He once revealed that before the OTT boom he had almost quit the industry multiple times. His persistence paid off with breakthrough roles that showcased his intensity and depth. From playing gritty cops in Jamtara to corrupt politicians in Maharani, Sial has displayed remarkable range. Stepping into a mythological role marks a new chapter, one that will test his ability to bring grandeur and gravitas to the screen.
Who is Sugriv in Ramayana?
Sugriv is one of the most pivotal figures in the Ramayana. Cast out by his brother Bali, he lives in exile until he encounters Lord Rama in the forests of Kishkindha. Their meeting becomes a turning point in the epic. Rama helps Sugriv reclaim his throne from Bali, and in return, Sugriv pledges his kingdom’s vast Vanara army to assist Rama in the search for Sita.
Beyond his alliance, Sugriv’s journey is marked by internal conflict and redemption. Initially hesitant and fearful after years of exile, he momentarily delays fulfilling his promise to Rama. This lapse in loyalty leads to Rama’s stern reminder of duty, after which Sugriv redeems himself by leading the Vanara forces in the great war against Ravana.
About Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana
The director Nitesh Tiwari’s two‑part Ramayana is one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious adaptations. It brings together an epic ensemble that reads like a roll call of Indian cinema’s most respected names. Leading the saga is Ranbir Kapoor in a dual role as Lord Rama (and possibly Parashurama), with Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash embodying Ravana. The powerhouse cast includes Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, Adinath Kothare as Bharat, and Arun Govil as King Dasharath. Veteran actors add gravitas: Amitabh Bachchan voices Jatayu; Lara Dutta portrays Kaikeyi; Indira Krishnan brings Kausalya to life; Anil Kapoor is King Janak; Kajal Aggarwal plays Mandodari; Rakul Preet Singh is Surpanakha; Kunal Kapoor appears as Indra; Vivek Oberoi as Vidyutjihva; Sheeba Chaddha as Manthara; Shishir Sharma as Vasishtha; Ajinkya Deo as Vishvamitra; and Sonia Balani as Urmila. The film weaves in other seasoned performers like Shobana, Vikrant Massey, and Mohit Raina in supporting capacities, altogether forming one of the most expansive and compelling cast lineups in recent Bollywood history.
Ramayana is on track to become India’s most expensive film ever. Producer Namit Malhotra, backed by Prime Focus Studios, leads the self-financed project. Estimates place the budget at around ₹4,000 crore (approximately $500 million USD).
The much‑anticipated first glimpse of Ramayana, labelled The Introduction, was unveiled on July 3, 2025, across major Indian cities in an IMAX 3D event attended by director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra.
Even before the film hits theaters, the Ramayana has already generated staggering interest. The initial first look has reportedly brought in ₹1,000 crore in value, significantly boosting Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios’ valuation on the stock market. This early traction reflects massive confidence in the film’s potential.
