‘He would have been the best Rama’: Sushant Singh Rajput’s AI-generated visuals spark debate over Ramayana casting choices

Just days after the first teaser of Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious two-part Ramayana dropped on April 3, 2026, AI-generated images have taken the internet by storm. This time, the late actor Sushant Singh Rajput is being visualized as Lord Rama, with many fans declaring the fan-made visuals a better fit than Ranbir Kapoor, who is officially cast in the role.

The images, shared on Reddit’s ‘exiledfrombollyblinds’ community under the title “He would have been better,” show Sushant stepping into two key frames from the teaser. In one, he appears in regal Ayodhya court attire as the ideal Maryada Purushottam. In the other, he is seen during vanvaas (exile), seated on a boat, radiating calmness and quiet strength. Side-by-side comparisons with Ranbir’s teaser shots have fueled intense discussions.

Netizens are largely emotional and appreciative. “He always had kind eyes and a calming aura — that’s exactly what Lord Ram had,” one Redditor commented. Another added, “100%. He has both calmness and fierceness in his face.” A heartfelt post read: “He would have been the best Rama. The best. All those feelings when he died came back seeing this post. Hope he is at peace.” Many echoed that Sushant’s composed presence and expressive eyes would have perfectly embodied Rama’s divine yet human qualities.

Not all reactions are unanimous. Some pointed out skin tone differences, noting that traditional descriptions of Lord Rama often mention a darker complexion, and Sushant was not significantly darker than Ranbir. Still, the overwhelming sentiment leans toward nostalgia and “what could have been.”

He would have been better 😭
byu/jellyous_001 inExiledFromBollyBlinds

Sushant Singh Rajput, who tragically passed away in June 2020 at the age of 34, remains deeply missed by fans for his talent, intellect, and versatile performances. The Ramayana project itself is a massive ₹4000 crore spectacle. Part One is slated for a Diwali 2026 release, with Part Two in 2027. The star-studded cast includes Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman.

This isn’t the first time AI has brought Sushant back into the spotlight, but tying it to one of Bollywood’s most awaited epics has amplified the buzz. While the teaser has generated excitement for the film’s grand scale and visuals, the AI images have reopened conversations about casting choices and the enduring love for Sushant.

As debates continue online, these fan creations serve as a poignant tribute. Whether one agrees with the comparisons or not, they highlight how deeply Sushant’s presence is still felt in the industry. The official Ramayana teaser is now streaming, and fans are eagerly awaiting the final verdict when the film hits theatres later this year.