Gurmeet Choudhary and Debina Bonnerjee on Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi playing Ram and Sita: Curious to see how this new version of Ramayana shapes up
Having played one of Indian television's most iconic couples—Ram and Sita—Gurmeet Choudhary and Debina Bonnerjee have long cemented their place in the public consciousness. But they're not ones to rest on legacy.
While Debina has been on a conscious pause from acting, choosing instead to immerse herself in motherhood, she makes it clear she's not done. 'I've been offered projects,' she says, 'but I'm waiting for the right one—something meaningful and creatively satisfying. I'm definitely open to returning, but on my own terms.'
Gurmeet, meanwhile, has been actively exploring new terrain, particularly in the OTT space. 'It's opened up a new world of storytelling.
It's raw, it's real, and it challenges you,' he says. 'I've enjoyed taking on characters that push me as an actor. There's still a lot I want to do—roles that break the mould. I'm hungry for that.' He's tight-lipped about upcoming projects, but teases that 'there's a lot happening behind the scenes.
I'd rather let the work speak for itself.'
As for whether filmmakers have fully tapped into his potential yet, he's clear-eyed.
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'To an extent, yes. But I still feel there's more I can offer. OTT, thankfully, gives space for experimentation. That's what excites me right now.'
The duo, who first became household names for portraying divine characters, still feel the weight and responsibility of those roles. 'Ramayana is not just a story—it's faith, history, and tradition,' says Gurmeet. 'You're not just playing a character. You're representing something sacred.' With
Ranbir Kapoor
and Sai Pallavi taking on the mantle in a new cinematic version, both actors are curious and supportive.
'It's an honour to have played Ram. It's a role that stays with you for life. I respect Ranbir as an actor, and I'm curious to see how this new version of Ramayana shapes up. Every generation deserves its own telling,' he adds. Debina agrees: Ranbir and Sai are incredibly talented, and I'm sure they'll bring their own grace and strength to these iconic roles.
Ram and Sita are not just characters—they're emotions. I'm looking forward to seeing their interpretation.'
But it's not just work that defines their narrative. Their bond is rooted in mutual growth. 'From Gurmeet, I've learned patience and resilience,' Debina says. 'He's my constant.' Gurmeet, in turn, says, 'Debina has taught me the power of emotional intelligence. Her love, especially as a mother, has reshaped how I see life and relationships.'
Balancing intense work schedules with raising two young daughters isn't easy, but the couple is deliberate about how they manage it.
'Balance doesn't happen on its own—you have to create it,' says Debina. 'Even an hour of being fully present with the kids is better than a whole day distracted.' Meditation and journaling keep her grounded. For Gurmeet, it's about intention. 'We carve out 'us' time. Whether it's yoga together, short breaks, or just a phone-free meal—those little things matter.
'
And when they do step away from it all, it's often to do something simple and joyful—like their recent visit to Candy City at Phoenix Marketcity Mumbai, a vibrant, immersive play space for children and families.
'It wasn't just for the kids—we loved it too,' says Debina. 'The Candy Infinity Room felt like walking into a dream. Watching our daughters explore it was magical.' Gurmeet adds, 'It's rare to find a place that lets kids go wild with imagination while giving parents a moment to breathe.
It was the perfect escape.'
In a career built on mythic characters and real-life connection, the two continue to move with purpose, refusing to be hurried by expectations. As Gurmeet puts it: 'We're not in a race. We're in a rhythm—and that's what keeps us grounded.'
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