Some movies come along with a quiet sort of magic, a sense that they’re going to be something big. Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is one of those projects. Announced with a grand vision and an equally grand budget, this two-part adaptation of the Hindu epic already feels like one of the most anticipated Indian films in years. From its starry cast to its larger-than-life sets, here’s what we know so far.
Nitesh Tiwari’s Epic Vision
Director Nitesh Tiwari, who previously delivered hits like Dangal and Chhichhore, is known for telling heartfelt stories with a high level of authenticity. This time, he’s going all in with a mythological spectacle. From early reports, it looks like he’s trying to craft a version of Ramayana that stays true to its sacred roots while also feeling cinematic and modern. Producer Namit Malhotra — one of the key names behind the film — has even hinted that they want this to be a global spectacle, something that could draw in audiences far beyond India.
And Tiwari isn’t making this alone. Kannada superstar Yash is also on board as a co-producer, which tells you just how serious everyone involved is about creating something truly memorable.
The Cast Everyone’s Talking About
If there’s one thing generating constant buzz, it’s the cast list. Ranbir Kapoor will play Lord Rama, a role that carries huge expectations. Opposite him is Sai Pallavi, stepping into the shoes of Goddess Sita in what will also mark her big Bollywood debut.
Yash himself is taking on the role of Ravana, the complex villain who’s been intriguing audiences for centuries. Sunny Deol will appear as Hanuman, an inspired casting choice that many fans are already excited about, and Ravi Dubey will take on Lakshman.
More big names keep popping up, too. Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha, Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari, and Amitabh Bachchan as the mighty Jatayu. Even Arun Govil — who famously played Lord Rama in Ramanand Sagar’s 1987 television version — has been roped in as King Dasharath. On top of that, actors like Vikrant Massey, Kunal Kapoor, Vivek Oberoi, Mohit Raina, and Adinath Kothare round out a supporting cast packed with talent.
The part of Vibhishana was initially offered to Jaideep Ahlawat but had to be recast due to scheduling conflicts. Rumors persist that Vijay Sethupathi might step into the role, though nothing is confirmed yet.
A Massive Production
And then there’s the scale. Ramayana is set to be one of India’s most expensive films ever made, reports suggest a budget of around ₹835 crore just for the first installment. That’s about USD 100 million, which is huge for an Indian film.
A chunk of this money is going into CGI and post-production, with some saying it will take more than 600 days to complete the visual effects for the first part. A sprawling set recreating ancient Ayodhya has already been constructed at Mumbai’s Film City, and those who’ve had sneak peeks say it looks like nothing we’ve seen before.
What the Story Will Cover
If you know the Ramayana, you know the broad strokes. The first film is expected to follow Rama’s early years, his marriage to Sita, their exile, and eventually Sita’s abduction by Ravana. Since the film is split into two parts, there’s room to go deep into the characters and really do justice to the source material.
And Tiwari seems intent on exactly that, staying close to the essence of the story, while also using modern filmmaking tools to enhance its grandeur.
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Release and Early Buzz
The plan is to release Part One in time for Diwali 2026, with Part Two coming a year later in 2027. Fans hoping for sneak peeks will probably get their first official look soon, too. The three-minute title announcement video has already been certified by the CBFC with a “U,” so a teaser can’t be far off.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently saw some footage and came away impressed. According to him, this version of Ramayana could set a new standard for mythological filmmaking in India.
High Hopes and Growing Anticipation
There have been so many adaptations of Ramayana across television and cinema that audiences know the story by heart. But the combination of Nitesh Tiwari’s storytelling skill, the all-star cast, and the massive scale of the production makes this one feel different. It’s a risky, ambitious attempt — but also one with the potential to leave a lasting impact if it’s done well.
For now, all eyes are on the first official look. Given the talent involved and the attention to detail so far, there’s reason to believe Ramayana could live up to its enormous promise.
Writer — Subham Choudhary