Even decades after its original telecast, Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Indian television audiences. First aired on Doordarshan in 1987, the mythological series became a cultural phenomenon, with viewers across the country eagerly waiting for every episode.
The show featured Arun Govil as Lord Ram, Dipika Chikhlia as Goddess Sita and Sunil Lahri as Lakshman. Its popularity was so extraordinary that people began associating the actors with their on-screen characters even in real life.
But beyond its popularity, Ramayan also has several fascinating stories involving its casting, shooting, characters and the experiences of its actors. Here are 10 interesting facts about the legendary series.
1. Dipika Chikhlia Was Just 15 When She Played Sita
One of the most surprising facts about the show is that Dipika Chikhlia was only around 15 years old when she was selected to play Goddess Sita. Despite her young age, she went on to deliver a performance that remains memorable for generations of television viewers.
Her portrayal became so popular that audiences began associating her with Sita even outside the show. The actress has previously shared how people sometimes found it difficult to separate her real identity from the character she played.
2. Arun Govil Gave Up Smoking After a Fan Objected
Arun Govil's portrayal of Lord Ram made such a strong impression that viewers expected him to maintain the character's image in real life as well.
During an earlier appearance on The Kapil Sharma Show, the actor recalled an incident when a man saw him smoking on the sets of a mythological film. The man reportedly questioned how someone whom people considered God could be seen smoking a cigarette.
Arun said that the incident affected him deeply and he never smoked again after that day.
3. Ramanand Sagar Also Changed His Lifestyle
According to Ramanand Sagar's grandson Shiv Sagar, the making of Ramayan brought several lifestyle changes to the production team.
He revealed in a podcast conversation that Ramanand Sagar himself gave up smoking and drinking during the show's production. The team also followed certain restrictions on the sets, including not allowing non-vegetarian food.
These anecdotes offer a glimpse into the atmosphere surrounding the production of the iconic series.
4. Dara Singh Had a Special Chair Because of Hanuman's Tail
Dara Singh, who played Lord Hanuman, had to wear a costume that included a long tail. This created a practical problem whenever he needed to sit during shooting.
According to an anecdote shared by Shiv Sagar, Dara Singh initially avoided sitting down rather than creating inconvenience for others. When the team understood the problem, a special chair was arranged for him with an opening to accommodate the tail.
The incident is a reminder of the practical challenges actors faced while portraying mythological characters.
5. Jayshree Gadkar and Bal Dhuri Were Married in Real Life
Another interesting connection between the cast members was that Jayshree Gadkar and Bal Dhuri, who played Queen Kaushalya and King Dasharatha, were married in real life.
Their real-life relationship added another interesting detail to the show's casting, especially considering the family relationship they portrayed on screen.
6. The Show Was Originally Planned for 52 Episodes
Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan was initially planned for 52 episodes. However, its extraordinary popularity led to multiple extensions.
The series eventually ran for 78 episodes, giving viewers more time to experience the epic story and its many important characters and events.
The decision to extend the show reflected the massive response it received from audiences across India.
7. Sanjay Jog Was Initially Considered for Lakshman's Role
Actor Sanjay Jog, who eventually played Bharat in the series, was initially approached for the role of Lakshman.
However, the role required a longer shooting commitment, which he reportedly could not accommodate. He was subsequently cast as Bharat, while Sunil Lahri took on the role of Lakshman.
Both characters became important parts of the show's memorable ensemble.
8. Arun Govil and Dipika Chikhlia Were Treated Like Divine Figures
The popularity of Ramayan went far beyond television ratings. Many viewers began treating Arun Govil and Dipika Chikhlia with the same respect they associated with Lord Ram and Goddess Sita.
Arun has recalled instances when people touched his feet or greeted him with folded hands. Dipika also spoke about how audiences sometimes believed that her on-screen relationship with Arun existed in real life.
Their experience demonstrated the extraordinary emotional connection viewers had developed with the series.
9. The Cast Received Recognition From Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi
The popularity of Ramayan eventually reached the highest levels of public recognition. Dipika Chikhlia has recalled that the cast was invited to Delhi and felicitated by then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
The recognition reflected the show's enormous cultural impact and its place in the country's television history.
10. The Show Reached Audiences Beyond India
Ramayan was not limited to Indian viewers. The series was broadcast in several countries and developed an international audience.
It is widely reported to have reached viewers in around 55 countries and attracted an estimated 650 million viewers. The series also earned recognition in the Limca Book of Records as a widely watched mythological television production.
Its rerun during the 2020 lockdown once again demonstrated its lasting appeal, as families across India returned to the iconic show.
Why Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan Remains Special
The success of Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan was not simply about its storytelling. Its memorable performances, music, dialogues and the dedication of its cast and crew helped create a television experience that continues to be remembered.
For Arun Govil, Dipika Chikhlia, Sunil Lahri and the other actors, the show became a defining part of their careers. Even today, audiences continue to associate them with the characters they brought to life.
More than three decades after its original broadcast, Ramayan remains a landmark in Indian television history.
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