Rakul Preet Singh says Ramayana is India's representation to the world, calls Surpanakha a very misunderstood character

Rakul Preet Singh says taking on Surpanakha has given her the opportunity to portray one of the Ramayana’s most misunderstood and layered characters. Speaking to news agency PTI, the actor also described the project as a major representation of India to audiences around the world.

A character with multiple shades

Singh said the role appealed to her for more than one reason. She highlighted Surpanakha’s importance to the story and the complexity of portraying a figure associated with a decisive moment in the Ramayana.

According to the actor, Surpanakha was “a very misunderstood and layered character.” She also noted that the character was the reason the war took place, making her role significant to the narrative.

For Singh, that combination of influence and complexity made the part especially interesting. She said it had been engaging to play someone with “multiple shades,” pointing to a portrayal that goes beyond a simple or one-dimensional reading of the character.

The Ramayana’s global significance

Singh further said the project represents India to the world. She described the Ramayana as India’s representation on a global scale, linking the story’s cultural importance with its international reach.

Her comments place the focus on both the scale of the adaptation and the opportunity to revisit a familiar character through a more layered performance. For the actor, Surpanakha’s place in the story and the broader significance of the Ramayana are central to the appeal of the role.