Rahul Sankrityan on casting Vijay Deverakonda in Ranabaali: “I wanted a hero with the stature of a warrior”

Vijay Deverakonda will next be seen as the titular character in Ranabaali, which is scheduled to release in cinemas on October 16.

By Bollywood Hungama News Network -

October 14, 2026 - 7:57 PM IST

Vijay Deverakonda is set to take on the titular role in his upcoming film Ranabaali, reuniting with director Rahul Sankrityan after their collaboration on Taxiwaala. Speaking at the film’s pre-release event, the director explained why Vijay was his choice for the character and said that the film would showcase the actor’s full acting potential.

Rahul Sankrityan on casting Vijay Deverakonda in Ranabaali: “I wanted a hero with the stature of a warrior”

Over the years, Vijay has explored a range of characters across different genres, establishing himself as an actor who takes on varied roles. With Ranabaali, he is set to portray a warrior, a character that requires him to bring together physical presence, emotional depth and a convincing performance.

Recalling his association with the actor, Rahul Sankrityan said at the pre-release event, “Vijay was the hero of my first film, Taxiwaala, and now he is the hero of my Ranabaali. When I conceived this story, I wanted a hero with the stature of a warrior. The answer to who that hero should be was Vijay Deverakonda. You will witness Vijay Deverakonda’s full acting potential in this film. Speaking in the Rayalaseema dialect is difficult, but you will be impressed by how beautifully Vijay delivers his dialogues as Ranabaali.”

The director’s remarks highlight his confidence in Vijay’s ability to bring the character to life. Their reunion comes after Taxiwaala, marking another collaboration between the actor and filmmaker. This time, Vijay steps into a role that calls for him to portray a warrior while also adapting to the nuances of the Rayalaseema dialect.

The dialect is an important aspect of the character, and Rahul’s comments indicate that Vijay’s dialogue delivery will be one of the elements to watch out for in the film. The director also expressed his belief that the project would allow audiences to see a different side of the actor’s performance.

Also Read : Ranabaali Trailer: Vijay Deverakonda leads a rebellion against British rule as pregnant Jayamma aka Rashmika Mandanna joins the fight