Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jun 26: Veteran actress Deepika Chikhlia, who became a household name for portraying Goddess Sita in Ramanand Sagar’s iconic television serial Ramayan, has expressed confidence in Sai Pallavi and Ranbir Kapoor, who are set to play Sita and Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited film Ramayana.
Speaking during the promotion of her upcoming film Tera Mera Nata, Deepika said both actors have the talent to bring the revered characters to life on screen.
“I have seen Sai Pallavi’s work, and she is a phenomenal actress. Ranbir Kapoor is also an excellent actor. I am sure both of them will portray their characters beautifully,” she said.
Reflecting on the enduring legacy of Ramayan, Deepika said the epic continues to inspire every generation and can be retold in new ways while preserving its timeless values.
“I feel fortunate to have portrayed Sita. The love and acceptance I have received from people over the years has been immense. Ramayan is built on faith and values, which is why it continues to be relevant across generations,” she said.
The actress also spoke about how people still associate her with Goddess Sita decades after the serial first aired.
“At first, I found it difficult to understand why people touched my feet. Later, I realised they were not paying respect to me as Deepika, but expressing their devotion to Sita Mata. I respect their emotions and their faith,” she said.
Urging audiences to support her upcoming film Tera Mera Nata, Deepika said the movie had been made with sincerity and dedication.
“I request everyone to watch the film with their families and shower it with love. It will strengthen the belief that even small films made with heart can touch audiences and succeed,” she added.
Originally telecast on Doordarshan between 1987 and 1988, Ramayan remains one of India's most celebrated television serials. Starring Arun Govil as Lord Ram, Deepika Chikhlia as Sita, Sunil Lahri as Lakshman, Arvind Trivedi as Ravana and Dara Singh as Hanuman, the show became a cultural phenomenon. It regained massive popularity when it was re-telecast during the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown in 2020.