'Ramayana' actor Kunal Kapoor calls the deity big enough for his own universe

Kunal Kapoor believes Lord Indra has the potential to headline a film beyond his appearance in Nitesh Tiwari's 'Ramayana: Rise of a Legend'. The actor, who portrays the king of the devas in the mythological epic, feels the character has enough depth to support an independent cinematic universe.

He has also noticed viewers discussing the possibility of crowdfunding a standalone project.

The response has encouraged him, particularly because of his association with the crowdfunding platform Ketto, which he co-founded.In a recent interview, Kunal Kapoor said he would welcome a film centred on the deity, even if another actor eventually takes on the role. He also spoke about the aspects of Indra's personality that attracted him to the character and the responsibility of portraying a figure of faith.

Kunal Kapoor says Lord Indra deserves his own film

Kunal Kapoor believes the character's story could extend well beyond the events explored in 'Ramayana: Rise of a Legend'. He said the possibility of a separate film was worth considering, regardless of his involvement in the project.“I do think Lord Indra deserves his own film, whether it happens with me or without me, because it’s a character big enough for its own universe,” Kunal said in a chat with Variety India.

The actor also revealed that some viewers have been discussing crowdfunding a film about Indra. He found the suggestion particularly touching because he co-founded Ketto. “I’ve seen people online talking about crowdfunding it, which is a lovely coincidence since I co-founded Ketto, so I’m very touched that people care about the character that much,” he told Variety India.There has been no announcement of a standalone film so far. However, the discussions indicate the interest Kunal Kapoor has noticed around his portrayal of the deity.

Actor believes Lord Indra has been misinterpreted

Kunal Kapoor also shared his thoughts on how Lord Indra has been represented in recent years. He believes modern portrayals have not always reflected the deity's identity as a powerful warrior and ruler.“Lord Indra’s character has been misinterpreted in recent years. He was presented like the warrior and king that he was, I guess that resonated with people.”For the actor, Indra's appeal comes from the contrast between his authority and personal insecurities.

He is the ruler of the heavens, commands armies and controls thunder and lightning, yet also has vulnerabilities.

Kunal Kapoor explains what attracted him to the role

The actor said he did not approach Indra as either an entirely invincible ruler or a vulnerable king. Instead, he was interested in exploring both sides of the character.“I didn’t really approach it as one or the other. What drew me to Indra is that he is both at the same time. I’ve always enjoyed playing characters who are strong on the outside but carry a vulnerability inside, and with Indra you have the king of the heavens, someone who commands armies and thunder and lightning but has his own set of insecurities.”

Kunal Kapoor discusses responsibility of portraying a figure of faith

Kunal Kapoor acknowledged the responsibility that comes with playing a character who represents faith for millions of people. He said the team approached the subject with respect, while the atmosphere on set remained relaxed despite the film's scale.“You’re always aware of it, because for millions of people this isn’t a character, it’s faith, and you walk onto that set with a lot of respect for that,” he explained.He also praised director Nitesh Tiwari and producer

Namit Malhotra

for maintaining a comfortable working environment. “But honestly, I’ve rarely been on a set that felt so relaxed and easy, which is not something you’d expect from a film this big. That calm came from the top, from Nitesh sir and Namit (Malhotra), and it filtered down to everyone, so the responsibility never turned into pressure.”

'Ramayana: Rise of a Legend' crosses Rs 800 cr worldwide

Meanwhile, 'Ramayana: Rise of a Legend', starring

Ranbir Kapoor

, Yash and

Sai Pallavi

, continues its theatrical run. The Nitesh Tiwari directorial crossed the Rs 800 cr worldwide mark within six days of its release.The film collected Rs 94.10 cr net in India on Tuesday, November 10. Its domestic gross reached Rs 526.50 cr, while overseas earnings took its worldwide collection to Rs 823.50 cr. The India net collection also crossed the Rs 400 cr milestone, according to Sacnilk. The movie has Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash in main roles.