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Sunil Lahiri immortalized the character of Laxman in Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayana’. The story of his selection in the serial is no less than a film. Very few people know that Sunil Lahiri was not initially selected for ‘Laxman’ but for some other role. Actually, he had earlier auditioned for the role of Shatrughan and was selected for the same. But an interesting coincidence and the expert eye of Ramanand Sagar changed his fate.
Sunil Lahiri became famous in every household by playing the role of Laxman in the TV show Ramayana.New Delhi. Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayana’ is that golden chapter of Indian television, which created history with the confluence of faith and entertainment. This work, which aired on Doordarshan during 1987-88, brought the sacred saga of Valmiki Ramayana to the doorstep of every Indian home. Every artist of the show was given God-like status by the audience. Be it Arun Govil as Lord Ram, Deepika Chikhalia as Mother Sita or Sunil Lahiri who played the role of Laxman. Sunil brought Laxman’s bravery and immense love for his brother to life on screen so much that he became a household name as ‘Sumitra Nandan’. Today on January 9, Sunil Lahiri, who immortalized the character of Laxman, is celebrating his birthday.
Sunil Lahiri was selected for the role of Shatrughan
Sunil Lahiri himself told in the interview how he got the role of Lord Lakshman. The amazing thing is that when he came to know that Ramanand Sagar is coming up with Ramayana serial and auditions are going on for the characters, he also went to the studio and gave the audition. He was also selected, but not for Laxman but for the role of Shatrughan.
Laxman’s character brightened Sunil Lahiri’s fortunes.
The role of Laxman was originally given to Shashi Puri, but due to some problems, Shashi Puri left the role. One day Ramanand Sagar saw Sunil and asked him to play the role of Laxman. Shashi Puri himself advised Sunil to do this role. In this way Sunil Lahiri became ‘Sumitra Nandan Laxman’ and his career changed forever.
Sunil Lahiri had to struggle in his early career
Sunil Lahiri, who became popular in every household by playing the role of Laxman brilliantly on the small screen, was not easy but was full of struggles. He would roam from office to office, give auditions, but would only get rejections. Fatigue and disappointment had become a part of his everyday life. In such difficult days, his truest companion was an old tape recorder. Sunil had introduced fans to him by posting on social media.
Used to listen to this special song on tape recorder during the days of struggle
When he felt sad after rejection, he would put cassettes in the tape recorder and listen to songs. His favorite song was ‘O Rahi Chal’. This song inspired him to never stop and keep moving forward. Sunil told that the tape recorder supported him a lot during the days of struggle and is supporting him even today.
About the Author
Started career with Dainik Bhaskar in 2015. Then worked as a team lead in Dainik Jagran. Started digital career with Aaj Tak and worked in organizations like ABP, Zee News, Business World. For the last 6 years…read more