On Arun Govil’s 73rd birthday, take a fresh look at his remarkable path — from becoming a household name as Lord Rama in Ramayan to stepping into the role of a Prime Minister in Article 370, and later contributing to public life as a Member of Parliament.
As Arun Govil celebrates his 73rd birthday on January 12, India remembers a rare personality whose life seamlessly blends mythology, cinema, and politics. For generations, he has been known as the face of Lord Rama in Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan, a role that has shaped cultural memories.
Today, he is reinventing himself – as an actor playing the Prime Minister in Article 370 (2024) and as a Member of Parliament elected from Meerut. His journey exemplifies discipline, faith, and a lasting connection with the common people.
Early Life and Education
Arun Govil was born on January 12, 1952, in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, and grew up in a disciplined family. His father, Chandraprakash Govil, was a government officer who wanted a stable administrative career for his son. However, Arun developed a passion for acting during his college years.
After completing his BSc degree, he actively participated in theatre and plays. He is the fourth of six brothers and two sisters, and his strong family values have shaped his down-to-earth personality.
Rise in Cinema and Television
Arun Govil moved to Mumbai in the mid-1970s and began his film career with the movie Paheli (1977). He gained popularity in 1979 with films like Sawan Ko Aane Do and Sanch Ko Aanch Nahin , which are known for their simplicity and emotional depth.
His television breakthrough came with Vikram Aur Betaal (1985) , in which he played the role of King Vikramaditya. But Destiny, however, had far greater chapters in store for him.
Becoming Rama in Ramananda Sagar’s Ramayan
In 1987, Arun Govil became a household name after playing Lord Rama in the television series Ramayana. The show was not just limited to entertainment; it became a spiritual experience. Streets would be deserted during its telecast, and people revered Govil’s calm, dignified portrayal of the character as if he were a god.
He later reprised the same role in Lav Kush (1989), voiced Rama in the animated classic Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama (1992), and also acted in other mythological shows like Vishwamitra and Buddha. This role also transformed his personal life, he quit smoking before Ramayana and described the experience as life-changing.
From Mythology to Modern Politics on Screen
In recent years, Arun Govil has successfully transitioned into contemporary cinema. His portrayal of the Prime Minister in Article 370 (2024) was widely praised for its restraint and authority, symbolizing a complete journey from mythological leadership to modern political power on screen. He was also seen in OMG 2 (2023) and is slated to play King Dasharatha in upcoming adaptations of the Ramayana (2026–27).
Reel to Real Leadership
Arun Govil joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2021 and won the Meerut Lok Sabha seat in the 2024 elections. In his role as a Member of Parliament, he remains an engaged voice in parliamentary discussions and deliberations. In 2025, he spoke in support of tobacco tax reforms and shared his personal transformation from a chain smoker to a disciplined actor, inspired by Lord Ram.
Awards and Legacy
He received the Uptorn Award for Best Actor for Ramayana (1988). Even at the age of 73, Arun Govil’s legacy remains unparalleled – an artist who is worshipped like a god, an actor who evolved with time, and a public representative dedicated to service.
From mythology to modern governance, At 73, Arun Govil continues to inspire not just as Ram, but as a responsible citizen and leader of contemporary India.
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