Ramayana: Panchayat Star Faisal Malik Joins Ranbir Kapoor’s Epic as Kumbhakarna
Director Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious mythological epic Ramayana continues to expand its star-studded ensemble. The latest addition to the cast is Faisal Malik, best known for his role as Prahlad Pandey in the hit series Panchayat.
According to recent reports, the actor has been roped in to play the powerful character Kumbhakarna, the brother of Ravana, in the upcoming film.
Faisal Malik Shoots Introductory Scene with Yash
As per reports, Faisal Malik has already filmed an introductory sequence for the character alongside Yash, who is portraying Ravana in the film. The scene was reportedly shot at Prime Focus Studios in Mumbai with an international action crew.
Sources suggest that the sequence is heavy on visual effects and large-scale action, drawing comparisons to the visual style of films like Avatar.
Interestingly, actor Bobby Deol had earlier been rumored to play the role of Kumbhakarna, but the role has now reportedly gone to Faisal Malik. Insiders believe the actor’s tall and heavily built frame perfectly suits the legendary character.
Faisal Malik’s Growing Filmography
Faisal Malik gained massive popularity for playing Prahlad “Chacha” Pandey in Panchayat. Apart from the acclaimed series, he was recently seen in Subedaar starring Anil Kapoor.
He has also appeared in Thamma, part of Maddock Films’ expanding horror-comedy universe featuring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna.
Massive Star Cast of Ramayana
Touted as one of the biggest Indian films ever mounted, Ramayana boasts a massive ensemble cast. The film stars:
- Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram
- Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita
- Yash as Ravana
- Ravi Dubey as Lakshman
- Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman
The film also features actors like Lara Dutta, Rakul Preet Singh, Arun Govil, Indira Krishnan, Sheeba Chaddha, Adinath Kothare, and Kunal Kapoor in key roles.
Character Reveal Event Postponed
The makers had initially planned a grand event at Gateway of India to unveil the first character posters on Ram Navami. However, the event was postponed due to rising global tensions linked to the ongoing US–Israel–Iran geopolitical situation.
According to sources, the promotional campaign for Ramayana will now likely begin closer to May, when the makers plan to unveil the first official looks of the lead cast.
With its massive scale, global VFX teams, and an ensemble cast featuring some of the biggest names in Indian cinema, Ramayana is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious films ever made in the country.
