In the glittering world of Indian television, where epic tales come alive on screen, few roles have etched themselves as deeply into public memory as those from Ramanand Sagar’s iconic ‘Ramayan’. While Arun Govil’s Lord Ram and Dara Singh’s Hanuman became household names overnight, Sunil Lahri’s portrayal of Lakshman was anticipated by many. But fate had a different script in store for the talented actor.
It all began during the casting calls for the monumental series in the late 1980s. Sunil Lahri, a seasoned actor with credits in films like ‘Dabangg 2’, auditioned with high hopes for the role of Lakshman, Lord Ram’s devoted younger brother. His screen presence, agility, and emotional depth seemed perfect for the warrior prince who never slept, always standing guard for his elder brother.
However, director Ramanand Sagar had other plans. After careful consideration, Lahri was not selected for Lakshman. Instead, the role that captured his essence turned out to be Sumitra Nandan – the valiant son of Sumitra and younger brother to Lakshman. This character, though less prominent than the main trio, showcased Lahri’s versatility as he brought to life the youthful energy and loyalty of this lesser-known figure from Valmiki’s epic.
The twist of fortune worked wonders. ‘Ramayan’ became a cultural phenomenon, with episodes drawing over 100 million viewers weekly. Lahri’s performance resonated deeply, making Sumitra Nandan a fan favorite. ‘I was heartbroken initially,’ Lahri later recalled in interviews, ‘but this role gave me immortality in a different way.’
Today, decades later, Sunil Lahri remains synonymous with the character. Fans still approach him chanting ‘Jai Shri Ram’, and his social media is flooded with nostalgic tributes. The story of his casting is a testament to how destiny intervenes in the world of showbiz, turning apparent rejections into legendary opportunities. As ‘Ramayan’ continues to air reruns and inspire new generations, Lahri’s journey reminds us that sometimes, the roles we don’t get lead us to the ones we’re truly meant for.