Ranbir Kapoor is set to play Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming two-part mythological epic Ramayan. However, the actor had to quit the lead role in the long-awaited biopic of legendary singer Kishore Kumar. In a recent interview, Anurag revealed that Ranbir Kapoor took the ‘tough decision’ to choose Ramayan over the singer’s biopic, which was in the making for over ten years.
During a conversation with BBC News, the director revealed how Ranbir had to choose between the two projects due to a schedule clash. He said, “Ranbir had a tough decision in life – Kishore Kumar or Ramayan. It was very difficult for him. Eventually, he chose Ramayan, and I think it was the right decision.”
Ranbir Kapoor and Anurag Basu have worked together several times before, including in Barfi (2012) and Jagga Jasoos (2017). Though the two have expressed their desire to work together again, their busy schedules have made it difficult. “We keep trying to work together, but it’s not happening,” the director added.
After Ranbir turned down the biopic, there were also rumours that Aamir Khan might play Kishore Kumar. But, Anurag did not confirm anything and told Mid-Day, “Until everything is finalised and the contract is signed, I don’t think I should talk about it. The project has seen many ups and downs over the years. So, I am hoping that this time it happens and I go on set with the story that I have been trying to tell for the last decade. I won’t spoil it by talking about it.”
