Anupam Kher on playing Ashok Singhal in 'Shri Ram Bhoomi'
Synopsis
Anupam Kher isn't just playing a character — he's taking on the legacy of Ashok Singhal, the VHP leader who shaped the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. With Zee Studios producing and the director of 'The Kerala Story' at the helm, 'Shri Ram Bhoomi' is positioning itself as one of Bollywood's most politically and spiritually charged films in years.
Key Takeaways
Anupam Kher will portray Ashok Singhal in the upcoming film 'Shri Ram Bhoomi' .
Kher shared his first look and a personal note on Instagram on 10 July , calling the role a 'great responsibility'.
The film is produced by Zee Studios and directed by Kamakhaya Narayan Singh , known for 'The Kerala Story' .
Shooting has commenced in Ayodhya , with Kher visiting the Ram Mandir on the first day of production.
The film chronicles the decades-long journey surrounding the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh .
Veteran actor Anupam Kher has revealed the deep personal significance of portraying Ashok Singhal in the upcoming film 'Shri Ram Bhoomi', describing the role as far more than a professional assignment. The actor shared his first look as the character on Instagram on 10 July, saying he wanted to personally introduce the role to his audience rather than let media reports speak for him.
What Anupam Kher Said
In his Instagram post, Kher wrote: 'In the film Shri Ram Bhoomi, I am portraying the role of Shri Ashok Singhal — a personality who played a significant role in guiding the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement with his dedication, determination, and unwavering commitment.'
He further added: 'He was not just a leader, but also a devoted follower of Lord Shri Ram. His faith, compassion, and steadfast belief gave new strength and direction to the movement. Bringing such a historic personality to life on screen with honesty and sensitivity is a great responsibility for me. I will sincerely try to give my best to this role. I seek all your blessings and good wishes. Jai Shri Ram.'
About the Film
'Shri Ram Bhoomi' is based on the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, and will trace the decades-long journey associated with the temple and the events surrounding it. The film is produced by Zee Studios and directed by Kamakhaya Narayan Singh, who previously helmed 'The Kerala Story', '2 Bhor', and 'Timeless Tamil Nadu'.
Shooting Begins in Ayodhya
Kher had earlier announced the start of production by sharing that the first day of shooting took place in Ayodhya. He visited the Shri Ram Mandir and sought blessings from Ram Lalla before commencing work on the project, underscoring the spiritual weight he attaches to the film.
Who Was Ashok Singhal
Ashok Singhal was a prominent leader of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and one of the central figures of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement that culminated in the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. His decades of activism around the temple issue made him one of the most recognisable faces of the movement. Kher's casting signals the film's intent to portray the political and spiritual dimensions of the campaign with depth. With Zee Studios backing the project and a director known for faith-and-history narratives, 'Shri Ram Bhoomi' is shaping up as one of the more anticipated releases in the devotional-historical genre.
Point of View
Whose 'The Kerala Story' stirred national debate, suggests 'Shri Ram Bhoomi' is designed to provoke as much as it is to inspire. Zee Studios backing adds mainstream muscle, but the real test will be whether the film can navigate the line between hagiography and genuine historical portraiture. Bollywood's recent track record with faith-based narratives shows strong box-office returns but uneven critical reception — Kher's performance will likely be the differentiator.
NationPress
10 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Anupam Kher playing in 'Shri Ram Bhoomi'?
Anupam Kher is playing Ashok Singhal, a prominent leader of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and a central figure of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. Kher described the role as a great responsibility, citing Singhal's faith and decades of dedication to the movement.
What is the film 'Shri Ram Bhoomi' about?
'Shri Ram Bhoomi' is based on the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, tracing the decades-long journey associated with the temple and the events surrounding it. It is produced by Zee Studios and directed by Kamakhaya Narayan Singh.
Who is directing 'Shri Ram Bhoomi'?
The film is directed by Kamakhaya Narayan Singh, who previously directed 'The Kerala Story', '2 Bhor', and 'Timeless Tamil Nadu'. Zee Studios is producing the project.
Where has shooting for 'Shri Ram Bhoomi' begun?
Shooting has commenced in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. Anupam Kher marked the first day of production by visiting the Shri Ram Mandir and seeking blessings from Ram Lalla.
Why did Anupam Kher personally share his first look on Instagram?
Kher said he wanted to personally introduce the role to his audience after glimpses of his character appeared in the media. He shared the post to explain the significance of Ashok Singhal and his own sense of responsibility in portraying the character.
