Ramayana Actor Finally Responds to the VFX Debate—His Take on Ranbir Kapoor Is Making Waves

MUMBAI — Actor Chetan Hansraj, who portrays the demon character Mali in Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming cinematic adaptation of Ramayana, publicly defended the film's visual effects and cast selection on August 2, 2026. Responding to social media debate following the release of the film's official trailer, Hansraj strongly backed lead actor Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal of Lord Rama. He dismissed online detractors criticizing the CGI as "keyboard VFX superstars" who are "living in dreamland" and fail to comprehend the massive scope of the production.

Defense Of Lead Casting And Creative Deliberation

Following the debut of the trailer, online discussion surfaced concerning the suitability of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Maa Sita. Addressing these criticisms during an interview, Hansraj emphasized that the core creative team, led by director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra, executed extensive research before finalizing the ensemble cast.

Hansraj praised Kapoor's look and screen presence, describing the overall casting as "fabulous". He noted that casting decisions were made after rigorous deliberation and testing. The film also features Kannada star Yash as Ravana, alongside Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, and Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman.

Response To VFX Criticism And On-Set Scale

The trailer's visual effects also drew detailed scrutiny from online commentators. Hansraj countered these opinions by asserting that mobile and computer screens cannot convey the actual technical fidelity designed for theatrical distribution. He noted that international technical talent, including Academy Award-winning visual effects supervisors and action directors, were deployed on set.

Hansraj, who completed his 20-day filming schedule for the first installment, termed the experience as the highlight of his 47-year acting career. He reiterated that the true magnitude of the visual effects will only be clear when viewed on large format cinema screens during its theatrical run.

Official Sources Section

According to official interview releases and production documentation:

"Statements published by Variety India and reported by The Times of India confirm that Chetan Hansraj defended the creative choices and technical production of Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana on August 2, 2026."

"Official production notes from Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus and Monster Mind Creations confirm that Ramayana: Part One is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release during Diwali 2026."

Quote Section

According to official interview disclosures:

"I think the casting is fabulous. Ranbir as Ram is fabulous. I really like the manner in which he has carried off his look. Sai Pallavi is also very nice. Everyone has their opinion, but Namit Malhotra, Nitesh Tiwari and the team have done a lot of research for the looks and characters, and finalized the cast after a lot of deliberation."

Addressing VFX critics, Hansraj added: "They are in dreamland. When you see Ramayana on the big screen, you will understand the scale. It is unfathomable. All these critics don't understand the scale."

Why It Matters

The public defense by cast members highlights key aspects of high-budget film production in India:

• Production Investment: The adaptation represents one of Indian cinema's most expensive projects, leveraging global VFX partners.

• Audience Expectations: Public reaction to casting iconic mythological figures underscores the intense scrutiny faced by high-profile adaptations.

• Box Office Strategy: Distributing the project in two parts starting in Diwali 2026 reflects a multi-year theatrical strategy aimed at international markets.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Actor Defense: Chetan Hansraj defended Ranbir Kapoor's casting as Lord Rama and rejected visual effects criticism.

• Role: Hansraj plays the demon character Mali in the Nitesh Tiwari directorial.

• Star Cast: Features Ranbir Kapoor (Ram), Sai Pallavi (Sita), Yash (Ravana), and Sunny Deol (Hanuman).

• Release Timeline: Ramayana: Part One is slated for a global release during Diwali 2026.

FAQ Section

Who is Chetan Hansraj playing in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana?

Chetan Hansraj plays the role of the demon (Rakshasa) Mali in the film.

What did Chetan Hansraj say about Ranbir Kapoor's casting as Lord Rama?

Hansraj praised the casting choice as "fabulous," stating that the director and production team conducted extensive research before finalizing Ranbir Kapoor for the role.

How did the actor respond to the criticism regarding the film's VFX?

He dismissed social media critics as "keyboard VFX superstars" living in "dreamland," explaining that the full technical scale can only be appreciated on a large cinema screen.

When is Ramayana scheduled to release in theaters?

Ramayana: Part One is scheduled to be released worldwide in theaters during Diwali 2026, followed by the second part in 2027.

Source: Variety India, The Times of India, Hindustan Times, India Today.