RAMAYANA
The “RAMAYANA” project, spearheaded by director Nitesh Tiwari and involving producers Namit Malhotra and Yash, represents a significant endeavor in Indian cinema. This section provides a comprehensive overview, drawing from recent reports and official announcements, to detail the project’s scope, cast, production, and anticipated impact.
Project Background and Vision
“RAMAYANA” is a two-part cinematic adaptation of the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, which narrates the story of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and their journey through trials, including Sita’s abduction by Ravana and Rama’s quest to rescue her. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, known for his work on Dangal—the highest-grossing Indian film—the project aims to bring this revered tale to global audiences with a modern, visually stunning approach.
Namit Malhotra, CEO of DNEG, a VFX studio with seven Academy Awards for films like Interstellar and Dune, has joined forces with Yash, known for the KGF series, to co-produce under Prime Focus Studios and Monster Mind Creations, respectively. In interviews, Malhotra has emphasized the “massive responsibility” of presenting Ramayana on a global stage, aiming to transform Indian cinema’s landscape . He aspires for the film to be celebrated internationally, drawing comparisons to Hollywood successes like Oppenheimer and Forrest Gump .
This ensemble has generated significant buzz, with casting announcements and fan discussions highlighting the film’s potential to redefine mythological cinema in India.
Overview
The “RAMAYANA” project is an ambitious cinematic adaptation of the Indian epic, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, known for films like Dangal. It is being co-produced by Namit Malhotra, CEO of the VFX studio DNEG, and Yash, famous for the KGF series. DNEG, with seven Oscar wins for visual effects in films like Interstellar and Dune, is set to create a visually spectacular experience.
Key Production and Release Details
Director : Nitesh Tiwari
Producers : Namit Malhotra, Yash
VFX Studio : DNEG (7 Oscar wins for Interstellar, Dune)
Cast (Lead Roles) : Ranbir Kapoor (Rama), Sai Pallavi (Sita), Yash (Ravana)
Supporting Cast : Kajal Aggarwal (Mandodari), Sunny Deol (Hanuman), etc.
Release Schedule : Part 1: Diwali 2026, Part 2: Diwali 2027
Budget : One of the most expensive Indian films (exact figure undisclosed)
Global Ambition : Aims for impact like Oppenheimer, Forrest Gump
Cast and Characters
The cast is a blend of established stars and fresh pairings, designed to resonate with both domestic and international audiences. Confirmed cast members include:
- Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, the protagonist and prince of Ayodhya.
- Sai Pallavi as Sita, Rama’s wife and a central figure in the narrative.
- Yash as Ravana, the antagonist and king of Lanka, known for his scholarly and formidable character.
- Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari, Ravana’s wife, adding depth to the antagonist’s storyline .
- Sunny Deol as Hanuman, the devoted monkey god and ally to Rama.
- Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, Rama’s loyal brother.
- Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rama’s stepmother whose actions lead to his exile.
- Sheeba Chadha and Arun Govil in supporting roles, with Govil’s involvement adding historical resonance given his iconic portrayal of Rama in earlier adaptations.
Production
Most of Ranbir Kapoor’s scenes for the first part have been completed, with some minor patchwork being filmed using his body double due to his commitments to another film. The second part’s filming is expected to begin in mid-2025, with Ranbir joining by June.
Scope
The film is a live-action adaptation of the Hindu epic Ramayana, aiming to be a visually stunning and authentic portrayal of the story, culture, and history that has influenced billions over 5000 years.
Format
Initially announced as a two-part film, there are reports suggesting the possibility of a trilogy, with the second film focusing on Hanuman and the third on the aftermath of Sita’s abduction, to be shot in parallel to avoid long gaps between releases.
Vision
Producer Namit Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari emphasize the global appeal of the story, hoping to excite worldwide audiences about Indian storytelling and cinema.
RAMAYANA Current Updates
Key Points
The “RAMAYANA” project is a two-part film adaptation of the Indian epic, directed by Nitesh Tiwari.
It seems likely that Namit Malhotra and Yash are co-producing, with DNEG handling advanced VFX.
Research suggests the cast includes Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and others like Yash as Ravana.
The evidence leans toward a release of Part 1 in Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in 2027, aiming for global impact.
Release and Ambitions
The project is planned as a two-part series, with Part 1 set for release during Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in 2027. The team hopes to transform Indian cinema, aspiring for global recognition similar to Hollywood films like Oppenheimer and Forrest Gump. The production aims to be one of the most expensive Indian films, focusing on detailed execution to honor the epic.
Production Details
The production is billed as one of the most expensive Indian films ever, though exact budget figures remain undisclosed. The focus is on leveraging advanced VFX, with DNEG at the helm, to create a “never-before-seen” visual spectacle. Reports suggest the film will feature comparisons to Hollywood blockbusters like Avatar and Planet of the Apes in terms of visual effects . Malhotra’s involvement, given DNEG’s Oscar-winning pedigree, underscores the project’s ambition to achieve global technical standards.
The production also involves negotiations for international collaboration, with reports indicating discussions with Warner Brothers for distribution and marketing support in global markets, aiming for “100% made-in-India” storytelling with worldwide reach . This aligns with Yash’s stated goal of showcasing Indian cinema globally, as mentioned in his collaboration announcement with Malhotra .
Release Schedule and Format
“RAMAYANA” is structured as a two-part series to accommodate the epic’s vast narrative. The release schedule, as announced by Malhotra, is:
- Part 1: Diwali 2026
- Part 2: Diwali 2027
This staggered release allows for a detailed exploration of the story, with each part focusing on key phases such as Rama’s exile, Sita’s abduction, and the eventual battle with Ravana. The choice of Diwali, a significant Hindu festival, aligns with the cultural resonance of the story.
Challenges and Expectations
Previous adaptations of the Ramayana, both in film and television, have faced criticism for varying reasons, including poor execution or deviation from the source material. Malhotra has acknowledged this, stressing the importance of “careful execution with attention to detail” to ensure the film resonates with audiences . The involvement of a high-profile cast and top-tier VFX aims to address these challenges, positioning “RAMAYANA” as a potential benchmark for mythological cinema.
Online discussions, such as those on Reddit, reflect mixed sentiments. Some fans express excitement over the casting and VFX potential, while others question Tiwari’s experience with historical or mythological films, comparing him to directors like SS Rajamouli . This highlights a controversy around directorial choice, though the project’s scale and backing suggest confidence in its execution.
Cultural and Global Impact
The project’s ambition extends beyond domestic success, with Malhotra and Yash aiming to introduce the Ramayana to non-Indian and non-Hindu audiences, a story less familiar globally compared to other epics . This aligns with India’s growing soft power in cinema, leveraging mythological narratives to bridge cultural gaps.
In summary, the “RAMAYANA” project by Namit Malhotra and Nitesh Tiwari is poised to be a landmark in Indian cinema, combining star power, cutting-edge VFX, and a global vision. As of May 17, 2025, it remains a highly anticipated release, with ongoing developments likely to shape its final impact.
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