The upcoming mythological epic Ramayana, helmed by director Nitesh Tiwari, is being positioned as India’s most ambitious cinematic venture to date. With a staggering combined budget of Rs 4,000 crore across two films, producer Namit Malhotra of Prime Focus Studios is determined to create what he calls “a global film from day one.”
The star-studded cast features Ranbir Kapoor as Ram, Yash as Ravana, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Amitabh Bachchan as Jatayu and narrator, and Ravi Dubey as Laxman. The production boasts an exceptional musical collaboration between Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, setting the stage for a cinematic experience that aims to transcend cultural boundaries.
In a candid interview with the LA Times, Malhotra outlined his bold vision for international success. Rather than creating content specifically for Indian audiences, he emphasized the film’s universal appeal: “If you go and watch Ramayana and your family watches it, and people in India watch it, what’s the difference? It should speak to you like any other film.”
The producer drew comparisons to blockbuster Hollywood films including Avatar, Gladiator, and Christopher Nolan’s works, setting high stakes for the project’s reception. “In my mind, if people in the West don’t like it, I consider that a failure,” Malhotra declared. “It is meant for the world. If you don’t like it, shame on me, we should have done a better job.”
Director Nitesh Tiwari echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the story’s emotional foundation. “Emotions are universal,” he explained. “If the audience connects emotionally, they will connect with the story, no matter where they’re from.”
The ambitious project aims to present Indian mythology through a lens that resonates with both religious and secular audiences worldwide, utilizing cutting-edge technology and international partnerships to bring the ancient epic to modern screens.
Ramayana is scheduled for release during Diwali 2026, marking what could be a watershed moment for Indian cinema’s global reach.
