Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor is preparing for a new chapter in his career, with plans to move behind the camera and make his directorial debut within the next two to three years. The actor has described the coming decade as potentially his last as a performer, although he has no immediate plans to retire from acting.
Ranbir’s comments come at a time when anticipation is growing around his upcoming film Ramayana, in which he portrays Lord Ram. The project has attracted considerable attention, with audiences keen to see how the actor approaches one of the most revered characters in Indian mythology. The second instalment is also expected to arrive next year, adding to the excitement surrounding the ambitious cinematic project.
Despite his busy acting schedule, Ranbir is increasingly interested in exploring filmmaking from a different perspective. Rather than limiting himself to performances on screen, he wants to take on the responsibilities of directing and storytelling. If his plans proceed as expected, audiences could see his first film as a director in the next two or three years.
The actor revealed that he began working on a screenplay several months ago. However, the process has proved considerably more challenging than he initially imagined. Writing a story and shaping it into a complete film require a different level of creative involvement, something he is gradually discovering through his experience.
Preparing for his directorial venture has also given Ranbir a greater appreciation of the people who work behind the scenes. He said his respect for the various professionals involved in filmmaking had grown as he learnt more about the process of bringing characters and stories to life. His appreciation for musicians and their contribution to cinema has also increased.
Although the storyline of his first directorial project has not yet been finalised, Ranbir already has a clear idea of the kind of film he wants to make. He is particularly interested in creating a family drama that leaves audiences with a warm and uplifting feeling. Rather than focusing on an elaborate or complicated narrative, he wants to tell a story that connects with viewers through emotions and family relationships.
Speaking about his workload and future ambitions, Ranbir said he works for around 100 to 125 days a year, leaving him sufficient time to develop stories and explore creative ideas. He admitted that he had never previously been as occupied or committed as he is now.
Reflecting on his future in the industry, he said he believed this could be his final decade as an actor and that he wanted to devote more attention to directing. However, he made one point particularly clear: he does not intend to act in his own directorial debut.
Ranbir plans to complete his existing film commitments before moving towards his new role. His intention is to establish himself as a director within the next two or three years, marking a significant shift in a career that has so far been largely defined by acting.
For now, however, several major projects remain on his schedule. Following Ramayana: Part One, he is expected to appear in Love & War, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The film also stars Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal and is scheduled for release on 21 January 2027.
Ranbir is also associated with Animal Park, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, as well as Ramayana: Part Two. Both projects are among the most anticipated titles in his upcoming filmography.
His decision to explore directing does not signal an immediate departure from acting. Instead, it reflects a desire to broaden his creative contribution to cinema. After years of working in front of the camera, Ranbir now appears ready to experience the challenges of shaping an entire film from behind it. Whether his first directorial venture will meet audience expectations remains to be seen, but the prospect has already added another dimension to interest in his career.
