What made you say yes to the role of Surpanakha in Ramayana?
Rakul Preet Singh: What excited me most was the complexity of Surpanakha. She is often misunderstood and remembered for one particular incident, but there are many layers to her personality. As an actor, I find characters that challenge people's perceptions especially interesting.
What attracted you to Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana beyond your character?
Rakul Preet Singh: One of the biggest attractions was the opportunity to represent Indian culture and history to audiences worldwide. Ramayana is such an important part of our heritage, and being associated with a film that brings this epic to a global audience is exciting.
Why do you think Surpanakha is a misunderstood character?
Rakul Preet Singh: Surpanakha is generally remembered for her role in the events that eventually lead to the war between Rama and Ravana. However, there is more to her story than that single incident. Her character has multiple shades, and exploring those dimensions makes the role interesting for me.
You recently responded to a fan's letter about Surpanakha. What message did you want to share?
Rakul Preet Singh: I appreciated the fan's understanding of the character's complexity. That was exactly what encouraged me to accept the role. History often remembers Surpanakha for one moment, but I believe her story deserves to be viewed with a broader perspective.
What do you hope audiences take away from your portrayal?
Rakul Preet Singh: I hope audiences approach Surpanakha with an open mind. As an actor, I enjoy roles that challenge familiar perceptions, and I would love viewers to discover the different dimensions of this character.
How significant is Surpanakha's role in the larger Ramayana story?
Rakul Preet Singh: Surpanakha plays an important role in the events that lead to the conflict between Rama and Ravana. Her actions set several developments in motion, making her an important character in the epic's larger narrative.
