The first trailer of the much-anticipated magnum opus Ramayana, produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and Monster Mind Creations in association with other partners, was unveiled at a grand event in Bengaluru. The 3D trailer was launched in both Kannada and English, marking a special occasion for the team as it prepares to take the epic Indian story to audiences across the world.
Director Nitesh Tiwari, music composer A.R. Rahman and members of the film’s star-studded cast, including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Ravi Dubey and Rakul Preet Singh, shared their thoughts and experiences at the event.
Director Nitesh Tiwari took the audience down memory lane, recalling the journey of bringing Ramayana to the screen and expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the ambitious project. The director’s attention to detail and commitment to the film have been central to its making, with the team working extensively to realize the grand vision.
Oscar-winning music composer A.R. Rahman expressed his pride and happiness at watching the trailer.
“I feel proud and delighted to watch the trailer. Namit Malhotra’s relentless efforts are truly admirable, and I have immense respect for Nitesh Tiwari’s tireless work. He has paid attention to even the smallest details, including the colors in the posters,” Rahman said. Praising the cast, he added that the film had brought together an impressive ensemble. He revealed that 34 versions were created before the final version received approval, reflecting the team’s determination to achieve the desired result. Rahman also spoke about the extraordinary commitment of the crew, with some team members working for 19 to 23 hours a day to bring the project to life. “Through Ramayana, we are taking our culture to the world,” he said.
The celebrated composer is also collaborating with a Hollywood music director for the first time on this project, adding another international dimension to the film’s musical journey.
Actress Rakul Preet Singh, who plays Shurpanakha, recalled that her first film in her career was in Kannada (Gilli).
“I wish I could speak Kannada more fluently. Being part of Ramayana is very special to me. It is a film with a humongous vision, and its story is close to the hearts of every Indian. I hope everyone gives us their love,” she said.
Rakul also praised the performances of her co-stars and referred to Yash, who plays Ravana, as her on-screen brother. Her mention of Yash drew enthusiastic cheers from the audience.
Sai Pallavi Seetha in Ramayana began her address in Kannada, saying, “Santoshavagide,” expressing her happiness at being part of the film. She admitted to feeling nervous while speaking Kannada but made an effort to connect with the audience in the language. “For all of us, Ramayana is a story we have grown up hearing. Being offered this role feels like a blessing. I have imbibed certain aspects of the character during the making of the film,” she said.
Describing the scale of the project, she said the magnitude of the film was remarkable and called being part of it a great responsibility.
Sai Pallavi also praised Nitesh Tiwari, describing him as the coolest director, and said she was extremely happy to be associated with the film. Watching the first trailer was a surreal experience for her, she added.
Ravi Dubey, who portrays Lakshmana, described the occasion as one of the greatest moments of his life. Admitting that he was nervous and struggling to find the right words, he said the experience was an honor he would remember for the rest of his life. He expressed admiration for the people associated with the project and spoke warmly about Ranbir Kapoor, who plays Rama. “I have always looked at him like a brother. There is only one Ranbir. He is pure and grounded in real life, and I respect him immensely,” Ravi said.
He also described Nitesh Tiwari as a father figure and acknowledged Namit Malhotra as one of the driving forces behind the ambitious project. “Ramayana is our scripture, heritage and history,” he said, underlining the cultural significance of the film.
Ranbir Kapoor began his address with a warm greeting in Kannada: “Namaskara, nimma preeti mattu aashirvada beku. Dhanyavaadagalu” (Greetings. I seek your love and blessings. Thank you).
He described the launch as a special occasion; particularly as the film’s international promotional campaign was beginning. “Ramayana represents our culture, faith, emotions and heritage. I still find it difficult to believe that I have been given this opportunity,” Ranbir said.
Acknowledging the enormous responsibility of portraying Rama, he spoke about the need to do justice to the character and to the millions of people who hold the epic close to their hearts. He said he had approached the role with humility, dedication and respect, keeping in mind the cultural and historical significance of Ramayana.
“We have worked with love and humility. I hope the film reaches the hearts of audiences everywhere,” he concluded.
With its grand visual scale, international ambitions and a cast led by some of Indian cinema’s most prominent names, Ramayana aims to bring one of the country’s most enduring epics to a global audience.
