The trailer of Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana has introduced audiences to several familiar characters from the legendary epic while also shining a spotlight on some fresh faces. Among them, actress Riya Kapoor has drawn significant attention after appearing as Mandavi, one of the royal women of Mithila and an important character in the Ramayana.
Although the film’s lead cast—including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash—has dominated headlines, many viewers were curious to know more about the actress seen alongside Sita during the trailer.
Here’s everything to know about Riya Kapoor and the role she plays in the much-awaited mythological drama.
Riya Kapoor Plays Mandavi in Ramayana
In the trailer, audiences catch a glimpse of Mandavi accompanying Sita during scenes set in the kingdom of Mithila.
Following the trailer’s release, many social media users speculated about the actress’s identity. Some initially believed the role was played by another performer, but later clarifications confirmed that Riya Kapoor portrays Mandavi in the film.
Her appearance has generated considerable interest, introducing the actress to a much wider audience ahead of the movie’s release.
Who Is Riya Kapoor?
Riya Kapoor is an emerging actress making her presence felt in Indian entertainment.
Before joining the cast of Ramayana, she appeared in the Telugu film MissTerious. She also played Naina in the television series Sampoorna, where her performance helped her gain recognition among television audiences.
In addition to acting, Riya remains active on social media, where she shares fashion content, lifestyle updates and behind-the-scenes moments with her followers.
Career Highlights
- Appeared in the Telugu film MissTerious
- Played Naina in the television drama Sampoorna
- Featured in multiple music videos
- Active digital creator and content influencer
- Makes her major Bollywood appearance in Ramayana
Who Is Mandavi in the Ramayana?
Mandavi is an important member of the royal family of Mithila.
According to traditional versions of the Ramayana:
- She is the daughter of King Kushadhwaja and Queen Chandrabhaga.
- She is the cousin of Goddess Sita.
- Her sister is Shrutakirti.
- Mandavi marries Bharata, the younger brother of Lord Rama.
- She and Bharata are traditionally believed to have two sons, Taksha and Pushkala.
Across many retellings of the epic, Mandavi is portrayed as a noble, compassionate and devoted queen who supports Bharata during one of the most emotionally challenging chapters of Ayodhya’s history.
Other Royal Women in Ramayana
The film also introduces other important female characters from the epic.
According to the announced cast:
- Sai Pallavi portrays Sita
- Sonia Balani plays Urmila
- Surabhi Das portrays Shrutakirti
- Riya Kapoor appears as Mandavi
- Lara Dutta plays Queen Kaikeyi
- Rakul Preet Singh also features in a key role
Together, these characters represent the women whose stories contribute significantly to the emotional depth of the Ramayana.
Star-Studded Cast
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the film features one of the biggest ensemble casts assembled for an Indian production.
The announced cast includes:
- Ranbir Kapoor
- Sai Pallavi
- Yash
- Sunny Deol
- Ravi Dubey
- Lara Dutta
- Arun Govil
- Kajal Aggarwal
- Rakul Preet Singh
- Vivek Oberoi
- Adinath Kothare
- Sheeba Chaddha
- Shishir Sharma
- Ajinkya Deo
- Kunal Kapoor
- Indira Krishnan
- Saurabh Sachdeva
- Faisal Malik
- Mukesh Tiwari
Release Timeline
Ramayana is planned as a two-part cinematic adaptation.
According to the filmmakers:
- Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for Diwali 2026.
- Ramayana: Part 2 is expected to arrive during Diwali 2027.
The film is presented by Prime Focus Studios in association with Monster Mind Creations, with the adapted screenplay credited to Nitesh Tiwari and Shridhar Raghavan.
Editor’s Note: Some source material contained conflicting information about the release timing. Based on the officially announced production plan, Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for Diwali 2026, followed by Part 2 in Diwali 2027.
