In the world of Indian television, Arun Govil is a name that will forever be associated with the iconic character of Lord Ram in Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan. Even after three decades, his portrayal of Lord Ram continues to captivate audiences, and his performance is often considered the gold standard for actors playing this revered role. But what has been Arun Govil’s life like after the television blockbuster “Ramayan“? Let’s delve into his journey and explore the impact this role had on his career.
From Slow Pace to Stardom
Before getting the opportunity to portray Lord Ram in 1987, Arun Govil’s career was progressing at a slow pace. He had appeared in several forgettable movies and gained recognition through his role in the Doordarsan show Vikram Aur Betaal. However, his life took a dramatic turn after his portrayal of Lord Ram in Ramayan.
The Impact of Ramayan on Arun Govil’s Career
Ramayan was not just a television show for Indian audiences; it became a cultural phenomenon. Arun Govil’s depiction of Lord Ram earned him immense popularity and adulation. Wherever he went, people would address him as ‘bhagwan’ (God) and seek his blessings. This unprecedented reverence made it challenging for Arun to explore diverse roles as an actor.
Devoting Himself to Mythological Roles
After the success of Ramayan, Arun Govil found himself typecast in mythological roles on television. He appeared in shows like Luv Kush, Vishwamitra, and Jai Veer Hanuman, where he continued to portray revered mythological characters. While these roles showcased his versatility as an actor, they further solidified the perception of him as Lord Ram.
Arun Govil’s Struggle for Leading Roles
In the realm of movies, Arun Govil faced difficulties securing leading parts due to his association with Lord Ram. In an interview, he shared that producers and directors struggled to visualize him in any character other than Lord Ram. They believed that audiences only saw Lord Ram in him, hindering his opportunities in commercial films.
Transitioning to Supporting Roles
To sustain his career in films, Arun Govil had to embrace supporting roles. In the 1990s, he appeared in movies like Muqabla, Hathkadi, Dhaal, and Do Aankhein Barah Haath, playing roles of journalists or cops who supported the hero’s journey. While these performances were appreciated, Arun yearned for the chance to explore a wider range of characters.
Television in the Late 1990s
In the late 1990s, as cable television gained prominence in India, Arun Govil took on supporting roles in popular television shows. He appeared in Pal Chhin on Star Plus and Basera on Zee TV. These roles allowed him to continue captivating audiences on the small screen while waiting for the right opportunities in films.
Recent Ventures in Films and Web Series
In recent years, Arun Govil has made a comeback in films and web series. In Vikramaditya Motwane’s Jubilee, he portrayed the character of Narain Khanna, the father of the protagonist. He also took on the role of an antagonist in the film OMG 2. Additionally, he appeared alongside Darsheel Safary in the movie Hukus Bukus, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
In conclusion, Arun Govil’s life after the television blockbuster, “Ramayan,” has been a journey of both triumphs and challenges. While his portrayal of Lord Ram brought him unprecedented fame and adoration, it also limited his opportunities for diverse roles in mainstream cinema. Nevertheless, Arun has persevered and continued to engage audiences through his performances on television, in films, and web series. His enduring popularity is a testament to his talent and the impact of his portrayal of Lord Ram. As we reflect on Arun Govil’s journey, we can’t help but wonder what the future holds for this legendary actor.
