Actor Chetan Hansraj has defended Ramayana against criticism over its visual effects and casting, saying many people are judging the film without understanding its scale.

Hansraj, who plays the demon Mali in director Nitesh Tiwari’s mythological epic, voiced strong support for Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Rama.

“I think the casting is fabulous. Ranbir as Ram is fabulous. I really like the manner in which he has carried off his look. Sai Pallavi is also very nice,” Hansraj said, adding that the cast was finalised only after thorough deliberation.

The actor also responded to online criticism of the film’s visual effects, insisting that viewers should wait until they see the finished product on the big screen before forming an opinion.

“They are in dreamland. When you see Ramayana on the big screen, you will understand the scale. It is unfathomable. All these critics don’t understand the scale,” he said, referring to some online commentators as “keyboard VFX superstars.”

Hansraj also praised the atmosphere on the film’s set, describing the cast and crew as respectful and soft-spoken. He singled out actor Yash for his humility and professionalism during filming.

Reflecting on the production, Hansraj said that despite spending 47 years in the entertainment industry, the 20 days he worked on Ramayana were the best of his career.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra, Ramayana features an ensemble cast including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol, Ravie Dubey, Arun Govil, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh and Vivek Oberoi.

The film will be released in two parts, with the first instalment scheduled to hit cinemas during Diwali 2026, followed by the second in Diwali 2027.