Ramayana character posters reveal Lara Dutta as Queen Kaikeyi and Sheeba Chadha as Manthara

The makers of Ramayana have revealed new character posters featuring Lara Dutta as Queen Kaikeyi and Sheeba Chadha as Manthara, giving a first look at the characters whose actions shape the events of the epic.

The posters highlight the roles of Kaikeyi, one of the queens of Ayodhya whose decisions impact King Dashrath and Lord Rama, and Manthara, whose influence over the queen leads to Rama's exile and changes the kingdom's future.

The makers shared the posters on social media with the caption: “A queen. A mother. Two wishes that would betray a father’s love and change Rama’s destiny forever. A cunning mind. Whose whispers would turn a mother’s love into a kingdom’s darkest hour. Lara Dutta as Queen Kaikeyi. Sheeba Chadha as Manthara.”

Lara Dutta is shown in traditional royal attire and jewellery, while Sheeba Chadha is pictured holding a staff as Manthara.

This follows the announcement of Arun Govil as King Dashrath. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the two-part adaptation features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman.

The production involves Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios, DNEG, and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release in Diwali 2026, and Ramayana: Part 2 is slated for Diwali 2027. The films will release in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam, with an IMAX release planned. Sony Pictures will handle international distribution outside India, and Dharma Productions will distribute in the Hindi-speaking market.