Mythological characters have always held a unique place in Indian storytelling. Rooted in centuries-old stories, these characters come with an emotional and cultural familiarity that makes portraying them on screen both an opportunity and a responsibility. Over the years, several actors have stepped into the shoes of revered characters, bringing their own interpretation, presence and personality to roles that audiences already know and connect with deeply.
From larger-than-life cinematic epics to television’s much-loved mythological dramas, here are actors who have made an impact with their portrayals of some of Indian mythology’s most recognisable characters.
Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana
As Ranbir Kapoor celebrates his birthday today, the actor finds himself at the centre of one of the most anticipated mythological projects in Indian cinema. He essays the role of Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s two-part Ramayana, alongside Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. The first part is scheduled to release during Diwali 2026, with the second instalment following in 2027.
For Ranbir, stepping into the role of Lord Ram marks a significant shift into a character whose story has been told and retold across generations. The actor’s portrayal has already generated considerable curiosity, with the recently unveiled trailer offering audiences their first extended glimpse of his interpretation of the iconic character.
Yash as Ravana in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana
Opposite Ranbir Kapoor’s Lord Ram is Yash, who takes on the formidable role of Ravana in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana. Known for his commanding screen presence, Yash brings a distinct intensity to one of Indian mythology’s most complex and recognisable characters.
The actor has spoken about approaching Ravana by putting aside his own preconceived ideas and trying to understand the character from within. The much-awaited confrontation between Ram and Ravana will unfold across the two-part saga, with the climactic face-off set to be explored in the second instalment.
Rajniesh Duggall as Ravana in Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha
Rajniesh Duggall recently stepped into the role of Ravana in Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha, bringing another interpretation of the legendary antagonist to the screen. The film revisits the Ramayana through a contemporary cinematic presentation, with Duggall portraying Ravana as a pivotal force in the narrative.
Despite the film’s larger ensemble, Duggall’s portrayal has been noted for its screen presence, with reviews particularly highlighting his convincing appearance in the role of Ravana.
Akshay Kumar as the Divine Messenger in OMG 2
Akshay Kumar took a contemporary approach to mythology with OMG 2, where he portrayed a divine messenger of Lord Shiva. Rather than playing a conventional human character, Kumar’s role became the spiritual force that guides the film’s central narrative, allowing the actor to bring humour, warmth and a modern sensibility to a divine presence.
The performance stood out for the way the film placed a mythological figure within a contemporary social setting, creating a character that felt accessible to a modern audience while remaining rooted in its spiritual context.
Mohit Raina as Mahadev in Devon Ke Dev…Mahadev
Few television portrayals of Lord Shiva have become as closely associated with an actor as Mohit Raina’s Mahadev. In Devon Ke Dev…Mahadev, which aired from 2011 to 2014, Raina played Lord Shiva across the series’ expansive mythological narrative, portraying multiple aspects and manifestations of the deity.
His portrayal gave the character a balance of strength, stillness and emotional depth, helping the series become one of the most recognisable mythological shows of its time. Even years after its run, Raina’s interpretation of Mahadev continues to remain memorable among television audiences.
Sanskruti Jayana as Satyabhama in Krishnavataram Part 1: The Heart
Sanskruti Jayana made her big-screen debut with Krishnavataram Part 1: The Heart, stepping into the role of Satyabhama in the mythological epic. Rather than presenting her merely as a supporting figure in Krishna’s story, the film explores Satyabhama as a character with her own emotional layers, convictions and strength.
Jayana’s portrayal has received attention for bringing a strong, emotionally driven interpretation to the character. Speaking about Satyabhama, the actress has also highlighted her courage to stand up for what she believed was right, even when it meant going against her own father.
Mouni Roy as Sati in Devon Ke Dev…Mahadev
Before becoming one of Indian television’s most recognisable faces, Mouni Roy made a lasting impression as Devi Sati in Devon Ke Dev…Mahadev. Her character’s journey formed an important emotional thread in the series and explored Sati’s relationship with Mahadev, her devotion and her eventual transformation within the larger story of Shiva and Shakti.
Mouni brought vulnerability and emotional intensity to the role, making Sati one of the characters that audiences strongly connected with during the show’s early years. Her pairing with Mohit Raina’s Mahadev also became an important part of the series’ appeal.
