Raghav Juyal is set to take on a much bigger role as Meghnad in Nitesh Tiwari’s ‘Ramayana: Part 2’. The actor made a brief appearance in the first instalment, offering audiences an early glimpse of Ravana’s powerful son. The sequel will explore the character further as the story moves towards the Battle of Lanka. One of the key episodes involving Meghnad is his confrontation with Lakshman.In an interview with Variety India, Raghav Juyal discussed his experience of playing the legendary warrior. He also spoke about Nitesh Tiwari’s instructions and the approach he followed while preparing for the role. Although the actor is keeping several details confidential, he revealed what the filmmaker wanted him to bring to the character.
Raghav Juyal is excited about playing Meghnad
Meghnad, also known as Indrajit, is Ravana’s eldest son and the crown prince of Lanka. He is remembered for his extraordinary abilities as a warrior and his command over illusionary powers. Raghav Juyal said he was happy to be associated with the character. However, he prefers to keep his interpretation private until the film reaches audiences.“I can’t reveal much about Meghnad just yet, but I am extremely happy and excited to be playing him in Part 2. How I am approaching the character and interpreting his different facets, is something I would like to keep between Nitesh (Tiwari) Sir and me for now. It is a very personal process, and I wouldn’t want to reveal too much before the film reaches the audience,” he said.
Meghnad’s powers and battle with Lakshman
Meghnad is considered one of the strongest warriors in Ravana’s army. His abilities allow him to challenge Rama’s forces and disrupt their progress during the battle. His confrontation with Lakshman is among the most important episodes in the war. He eventually strikes Lakshman unconscious, leading to Hanuman’s journey to find the Sanjeevani herb. Lakshman later defeats Meghnad in their final confrontation.The character’s mastery of supernatural abilities is another important aspect of his portrayal. These powers, known as ‘mayavi shaktiyan’, also influenced Nitesh Tiwari’s vision for the role.
Nitesh Tiwari wanted a particular intensity
Raghav Juyal revealed that Nitesh Tiwari had a specific visual approach in mind for Meghnad. The filmmaker wanted the actor to convey the warrior’s strength and intimidating personality through his expressions. His eyes were particularly important to establishing the character’s mysterious and dangerous nature.“Nitesh Sir’s brief was that Meghnad is an extremely powerful ‘yodha’ (warrior), almost as powerful as Ravana himself. He was the one who brought the war to a standstill. He also struck Lakshman, leaving him unconscious and eventually leading to the need for Sanjeevani. Meghnad is also the master of ‘mayavi shaktiyan,’ so Nitesh Sir specifically wanted me to bring that power alive through my eyes. He wanted a certain glint, an almost evil intensity and fire in my eyes. If you notice my glimpse in Part 1, there is a certain intensity in my eyes that he had specifically asked me to bring out,” he said.
His first appearance introduced the warrior
Raghav Juyal’s appearance in ‘Ramayana: Part 1’ was brief, but it introduced audiences to his interpretation of Meghnad. The sequence reportedly shows the actor with a moustache and a fierce expression. He is also seen performing a sacred fire ritual believed to be the Nikumbhila Yagna. The ritual is associated with Meghnad’s supernatural strength and his preparations for battle.
‘Ramayana: Part 2’ will explore the Battle of Lanka
The sequel is expected to take the story into the conflict between Rama’s forces and Ravana’s army. Meghnad’s presence will be significant as the narrative explores the major confrontations of the Lanka war. His battle with Lakshman is one of the episodes that audiences familiar with the epic will be anticipating.On the other hand, Raghav recently made his Telugu debut with Nani starrer ‘The Paradise’.