Oct 09, 2026 4:49pm IST
‘Ramayana’: Lara Dutta’s Kaikeyi Takes Centre Stage In New Poster, Sheeba Chaddha Is Manthara
The makers of Nitesh Tiwari’s “Ramayana: Rise of a Legend” have unveiled a new character poster featuring Lara Dutta as Queen Kaikeyi, offering a glimpse into one of the epic’s most consequential characters. The reveal also introduces Sheeba Chaddha as Manthara, bringing two figures central to the events leading to Rama’s exile into focus.
Dutta’s poster presents her in an ornate crown, traditional jewellery and a richly detailed costume, with a stern, intense expression. The official “World of Ramayana” account frames Kaikeyi’s place in the story through her dual identity as a queen and a mother, hinting at the choices that will shape her legacy.
“A queen. A mother. Two wishes that would betray a father’s love and change Rama’s destiny forever,” reads the caption accompanying Dutta’s first look. It goes on to describe Kaikeyi as “a cunning mind” whose whispers would turn a mother’s love into “a kingdom’s darkest hour”.
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Chaddha has been unveiled as Manthara, Kaikeyi’s maid and confidante. In the traditional telling of the Ramayana, Manthara persuades Kaikeyi to invoke the two boons promised to her by King Dasharatha: Bharata’s coronation as king and Rama’s exile for 14 years. The decision becomes a defining turning point in the epic, setting Rama’s departure from Ayodhya into motion.
The two character reveals place the relationship between Kaikeyi and Manthara in focus as the film begins introducing the figures behind this pivotal chapter. While Kaikeyi’s choices drive the immediate conflict, Manthara’s counsel is central to the events that lead to the demand for Rama’s exile. Their portrayal will form part of the film’s interpretation of a story that has been retold across generations and cultures.
Dutta joins a cast led by Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. The film also features Arun Govil as King Dasharatha. The first instalment is directed by Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra.
“Ramayana: Rise of a Legend” is scheduled to release in cinemas worldwide during Diwali 2026.
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