'Ramayana': Yash boards as a producer; will not portray Ravana
Yash has reportedly taken on a new role behind the scenes in Nitesh Tiwari's highly-anticipated mythology film, Ramayana. Contrary to previous speculation, recent reports suggest that KGF fame will not be playing Ravana but has instead joined the production team as a co-producer. The star-studded cast of the film includes Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. However, the official cast announcement is still awaited.
Yash's decision and the director's discontent over leaks
A source disclosed to Zoom, "Yash desisted the offer to play Ravana for a long time. He finally agreed only as a producer." It added, "Rather than accept a fee (of around ₹80cr), he agreed to come on board as a producer." The same source revealed that director Tiwari was upset over leaked images of the cast in costume, leading him to implement a strict no-phone policy on set.
Ensemble cast and release date of 'Ramayana' revealed
The ensemble cast of Ramayana reportedly includes Bobby Deol and Vijay Sethupathi, with Bobby being considered for the role of Kumbhkaran and Sethupathi rumored to portray Vibhishan, Ravana's youngest brother. Lara Dutta and Sheeba Chaddha are also part of the project, reportedly locked in as Kaikeyi, Lord Rama's stepmother, and Manthara, respectively. Per Pinkvilla, the official declaration of Ramayana is scheduled for April 17, coinciding with Ram Navami.
Production for the film has already started!
Filming for Ramayana reportedly commenced in the first week of April. Separately, to fit into the role of Rama, Kapoor is currently undergoing intensive training. His fitness coach recently shared a video on Instagram of the actor working out in a picturesque countryside setting. Notably, the film is slated for a Diwali 2025 release and is planned as a trilogy.
Yash's upcoming project, 'Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups'
In addition to his new role in Ramayana, Yash is also preparing for his next project titled Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-ups. This action-packed drama—announced last December—is directed by Geetu Mohandas and produced by Venkat K Narayana's KVN Productions and Yash's Monster Mind Creations. It reportedly explores the world of the drug mafia. The film is scheduled to hit screens on April 10, 2025.