As Dussehra approaches, vibrant celebrations come to life symbolizing the victory of good over evil, symbolized by the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhakarna. This age-old tradition, especially evident during Ramlila performances, connects deeply to the epic Ramayana. Bollywood has long embraced these themes, and included references to Ravana in its storytelling. From cunning villains to subtle nods to the dialogue, the filmmakers have expertly taken inspiration from this timeless tale, enriching their characters and plots.
Dussehra 2024: Bollywood villains and their Ravana references
1. Saif Ali Khan in Adipurush
Adipurush, directed by Om Raut, is a bold retelling of the Ramayana, bringing the epic characters to life in a modern cinematic experience. Prabhas plays the role of Lord Ram, who exudes strength and righteousness, while Saif Ali Khan embodies Lankesh, a nuanced interpretation of the formidable Ravana. The film deeply explores the complexity of good versus evil, with Kriti Sanon playing Sita, who endures trials that highlight her resilience.
2. Abhishek Bachchan in Raavan
In Raavan (2010), director Mani Ratnam reimagined the Ramayana through the eyes of the infamous anti-hero, Beera, played by Abhishek Bachchan. This modern twist on the epic explores the complex dynamics of love and rivalry as Beera kidnaps a police officer’s wife Ragini, played by Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.
While on the surface, Beera embodies the virtues of Ravana, his character comes across with unexpected depth, exposing emotional vulnerabilities that defy conventional villainy. As Ragini expresses her feelings for her kidnapper, the film blurs the lines between good and bad, and invites the audience to reconsider the moral dimensions of the classic tale.
3. Ravana Raj: Shakti Kapoor in a true story
Ravana Raj: A True Story (1995) highlights the dire situation of the city of Bombay, where crime and corruption are rampant, highlighting the dark legacy of the mythological Ravana. The film is based on former Assistant Police Commissioner Arjun Verma, who fights against an insidious crime syndicate led by the villain Auto Kesariya (played by Shakti Kapoor), a character who embodies the brutal qualities of Raavan. Just as Ravana ruled with an iron fist, Kesariya took advantage of the vulnerability of innocents by carrying out a series of kidnappings and heinous crimes, leading to chaos in the city.
As Arjun uncovers the shocking truths behind the disappearances, including skeletal remains and stolen body parts, he finds himself in a dangerous battle against powerful politicians and corrupt police officers, who are at the mercy of Ravana. Shows the epic struggle of Rama against tyranny.
4. Arjun Rampal in Ra.One
In Ra.One (2011), director Anubhav Sinha reimagines the Ramayana through an exciting sci-fi lens. Arjun Rampal plays the menacing Ra.One, reminiscent of Ravana, who emerges from the digital realm to challenge the forces of good. With Shah Rukh Khan as heroine G.One and Kareena Kapoor Khan as his love interest, the film combines star power with an engaging story.
Ra.Van’s dramatic entry against the backdrop of the burning effigy of Ravana symbolizes the eternal struggle between light and darkness. This innovative blend of mythology and modern technology not only adds depth to the narrative but also inspires reflection on themes of power and morality, making Ra.One a unique cinematic experience that blends ancient stories with contemporary storytelling. Connects.
5. Sunil Shetty in Main Hoon Na
In Main Hoon Na (2004), Suniel Shetty plays Raghavan Singh Dutta, a villain whose villainy is reminiscent of the great demon king Ravana. Directed by Farah Khan, this action-comedy is a mix of romance and drama against the backdrop of India-Pakistan tensions.
Raghavan’s ruthless ambition and cunning nature mirrors Ravana’s dark qualities, setting the stage for a confrontation with Major Ram Sharma, played by Shah Rukh Khan. As the film unfolds, it cleverly weaves elements of the Ramayana into its narrative, presenting an entertaining mix of action and humour, highlighting the eternal conflict between good and evil.
6. Sanjay Dutt in Rudraksha
In Rudraksha (2004), director Mani Shankar reinterpreted the Ramayana through a modern lens, with Sanjay Dutt playing the role of Varun, a character who reflects the complexities of Ravana. The film revolves around Varun’s search for the mysterious Rudraksha, a relic left by Ravana, and displays themes of power, devotion and morality.
With Suniel Shetty as a dedicated seeker, the narrative explores the fine line between good and evil while posing thought-provoking questions about contemporary villainy. With a stellar cast including Bipasha Basu and Isha Koppikar, Rudraksh effectively blends mythology with action, creating a unique cinematic experience that blends with the age-old stories.
7. Tahir Raj Bhasin in Mardaani
Mardaani (2014) stars Rani Mukherjee as ACP Shivani Shivaji Roy, a fierce policewoman who deals with the grim reality of human trafficking. His fight against the charismatic but ruthless Karan Rastogi, played by Tahir Raj Bhasin, bears powerful parallels with the epic battle against Ravana from the Ramayana.
Just as Rama faced the tyranny of Ravana, Shivani confronts Karan, whose cunning and cruel nature reflects the dark legacy of the demon king. The film not only thrills with its gripping story, but also serves as a bold commentary on the ongoing struggle for women’s rights, making Shivani a modern heroine in a world beset by evil.
8. Ritesh Deshmukh in Ek Villain
Ek Villain (2014) skillfully weaves a story of love, loss and revenge, drawing interesting parallels with the mythological image of Ravana from the Ramayana. In this gripping tale, Riteish Deshmukh plays a complex antagonist whose passion for love turns into a dark quest for vengeance, reminiscent of the infamous abduction of Sita by Ravana.
In Ek Villain, Ritesh has committed heinous crimes including the murder of the female lead. The film explores the duality of human emotions, showing how love can turn into an obsession resulting in chaos and destruction. This modern reimagining of the legend of Ravana is a poignant reminder of the eternal war between good and evil.
This Dussehra, as we celebrate the triumph of light over darkness, let’s reflect on how Ravana’s legacy continues to shape Bollywood villains. These characters, often symbolizing their virtues, not only entertain but also remind us of the moral complexities inherent in the battle between good and evil. As we enjoy the festivities, let’s appreciate the cinematic interpretations that keep this age-old story alive in our hearts and minds.
Also read: After Sunny Deol’s Gadar 2, director Anil Sharma to announce his next big project on Dussehra; details inside
