The first look of the film Ramayana, produced by Namit Malhotra, has been released, with Ranbir Kapoor appearing as ‘Rama’. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the project is planned as a two-part cinematic series and is being produced by Prime Focus Studios, eight-time Academy Award-winning DNEG, and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations.
The first teaser of the film was released globally at the same time and focuses on a character that has remained in public consciousness for over 5,000 years. The film presents a new perspective for those familiar with the story, while also offering an introduction for new audiences. The narrative portrays Ram as a figure who chose duty over desire, gave up power for what he believed was right, and remained on the right path despite personal loss. Known as ‘Maryada Purushottam,’ the character is depicted as maintaining dignity, compassion, and moral clarity even in the face of exile, loss, and injustice.
Director Nitesh Tiwari stated that the strength of Ramayana lies in its emotional depth. He said the story is not limited to the conflict between good and evil, but also explores choices, their consequences, and the responsibility of following the right path. He added that Ram’s journey is rooted in deep humanity, which the team has tried to remain faithful to.
Ranbir Kapoor said he is not representing Ram but is attempting to learn from the character. He described Ram’s simplicity and purity as rare and said that understanding and adopting those qualities has been a humbling experience.
Producer Namit Malhotra said the strength of Ram’s story lies not in what he achieved, but in what he gave up. He stated that Ram chose what was necessary over what was easy, prioritising duty over desire, truth over comfort, and sacrifice over self-interest, which is why the story has endured for thousands of years.
The story is set in a time when Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva governed the universe and chaos spread across the earth. Vishnu incarnates as Ram, played by Ranbir Kapoor, in human form to restore balance. Opposing him is Ravana, played by Yash, an invincible and immortal demon driven by pride and revenge. Unaware of his larger purpose, Ram lives as the prince of Ayodhya and seeks a life with his wife Sita, played by Sai Pallavi, and his brother Lakshman, played by Ravi Dubey. However, circumstances lead to his exile, setting the stage for a conflict with Ravana.
The cast includes Ranbir Kapoor and Yash in opposing roles, along with Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman. The film’s music is composed by Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman.
Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for a global release during Diwali 2026, while the second part, which is currently in production, is set to release during Diwali 2027. The film is based on the writings of sage Valmiki.
