Directed by :Nitesh Tiwari
Screenplay by:Shridhar Raghavan,Nitesh Tiwari
Dialogues by:Shreyas Jain,Nitesh Tiwari
Based on:Ramayana
by Valmiki
Produced by:Namit Malhotra,Yash
Starring:Ranbir Kapoor,Yash,Sai Pallavi,Sunny Deol,Ravi Dubey
Cinematography:Pankaj Kumar,Mahesh Limaye
Edited by:Huzefa Lokhandwala
Music by:Hans Zimmer,A. R. Rahman
Production
companies:Prime Focus Studios,Monster Mind Creations,DNEG
Release dates:5 November 2026

Ramayana: Part 1 is a 2026 Indian Hindi-language epic mythological film directed by Nitesh Tiwari, who co-wrote the screenplay with Shridhar Raghavan. Produced by Namit Malhotra and Yash, the film is based on the epic poem Ramayana by Valmiki, which chronicles the life and trials of Prince Rama. It is the first of a two-part film. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor, Yash (in his Hindi film debut), Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol, Ravi Dubey (in his film debut), Anupam Kher, Kajal Aggarwal, Rakul Preet Singh, Vivek Oberoi, Kunal Kapoor, Adinath Kothare, Arun Govil, Indira Krishnan, and Lara Dutta

Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is a visually magnificent big-screen adaptation that succeeds primarily on its technical scale and standout lead performances, even if its narrative plays it safe. The writing relies heavily on familiar, predictable dramatic tropes that feel reminiscent of classic television serials, resulting in slightly surface-level characterization outside of the main antagonist. However, the film more than compensates with groundbreaking CGI, impressive 3D execution, innovative AI lip-sync technology, and thrilling action set-pieces, particularly the grand mid-air clash with Jatayu.

Yash delivers a dominant, show-stealing performance as a multi-dimensional and menacing Ravana, while Ranbir Kapoor grounds the film with a calm, composed presence as Ram, supported by an emotionally resonant performance from Sai Pallavi as Sita.

Although the background score by Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman feels overly generic and fails to capture an authentic Indian feel, the movie establishes a high visual benchmark for Indian cinema and successfully builds strong momentum for Part 2.

Bottomline

A visual spectacle struggling with its two-part sensibilities -featuring less action and more drama than expected. While the music turns out to be a big letdown, the breathtaking scale and technical craft still demand the biggest screen possible.

3.5/5