📋 Movie Details

🎭 Main Cast

Synopsis

No Major Spoilers

Ramayana Part 1 brings the timeless Indian epic to the big screen on an unprecedented scale. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the film follows the journey of Lord Ram (Ranbir Kapoor), the seventh avatar of Vishnu, from his birth in Ayodhya to his exile and the eventual abduction of his wife Sita (Sai Pallavi) by the demon king Ravana (Yash) of Lanka.

The narrative spans the key Kandas of Valmiki's epic, moving from the Bala Kanda and Ayodhya Kanda into the early beats of Aranya Kanda. [citation:9] The film is framed not merely as mythology but as "our history, our truth," aiming to present the revered story on a grand cinematic canvas through large-scale visuals, emotional storytelling, and advanced visual effects.

The film is produced by Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Studios and features visual effects from the eight-time Oscar-winning VFX house DNEG.  The teaser has already generated massive buzz, with early viewers calling the experience "breathtaking" and "powerful.

My Honest Review

🎬 India's Most Ambitious Cinematic Epic

When I first heard about Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana, I was skeptical. Another mythological adaptation? But after watching the teaser and reading the early reviews, I realized this is something entirely different. This is not just another film—it's a cinematic event of unprecedented scale.

The film's budget alone is staggering—reportedly ₹4000-4500 crore for both parts, making it the most expensive Indian film ever produced. The involvement of DNEG, the VFX studio behind Hollywood blockbusters like Interstellar and Tenet, ensures that the visual quality will be world-class.

As Nitesh Tiwari and Namit Malhotra stated during a Los Angeles screening, they are creating something "breathtaking" that aims to bring this epic story to a global audience.The film's ambition extends to a release in China, with a target to enter the top five highest-grossing Bollywood films in the country.

🌟 Ranbir Kapoor — The Heart of the Film

Ranbir Kapoor steps into the shoes of Lord Ram with a performance that has already been praised by early viewers. One audience member described the moment when "Ram is sitting in a boat, his name is called, and he slowly turns" as deeply emotional, saying "tears fell down my cheek—whether from joy or a sense of belonging, I just felt it.

Kapoor has reportedly immersed himself completely in the role, understanding its depth and meaning. During a Q&A session, when greeted by the audience, he responded with "Jai Siya Ram," demonstrating a beautiful and respectful connection with the story. He called this role the most significant of his career during the emotional wrap-up speech.

However, some critics have noted that while Kapoor fits the part convincingly in terms of presence, there are moments even he feels a little off, and the heavy reliance on CGI occasionally distracts from his performance. India Today noted that he "doesn't fully silence doubts around his casting, but he complicates them. There is enough conviction here to suggest that writing him off would be premature.

🎭 The Star-Studded Ensemble

The supporting cast is equally impressive. Sai Pallavi plays Devi Sita, Ram's devoted wife and the epitome of virtue and strength. She brings a natural sincerity to the role, making Sita's resilience and purity feel authentic. 

Yash, the Rocking Star from KGF fame, takes on the formidable role of Ravana. Early reactions to the Ravana tease suggest he will be a standout, with the closing moments of the teaser elevating the entire experience.

Sunny Deol brings his commanding presence to Lord Hanuman, a role that requires both physicality and devotion. Ravi Dubey plays Lakshman, Ram's devoted brother. Lara Dutta appears as Kaikeyi, and Kajal Aggarwal plays Mandodari.

📷 Visuals & VFX — A Double-Edged Sword

The film's visual ambition is undeniable. The teaser showcases towering sets, rich colours, and an unmistakable sense of scale.The Pushpak Viman, rendered with intricate detail, is described as the teaser's most striking visual moment, where technical ambition and artistic imagination find their strongest confluence.

However, the reliance on visual effects has drawn some criticism. India Forums noted that "certain portions feel overly fabricated, and the usual gaps that accompany VFX-heavy films do make their presence felt, slightly distancing the viewer from the immersion. India Today similarly observed that "the heavy reliance on CGI makes parts of the world feel over-constructed, even slightly caricature-like, as if the film is still searching for its tonal footing.

🎵 Music — Hans Zimmer & A.R. Rahman Join Forces

In a historic collaboration, the film's score is composed by Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman. The early glimpses of the soundtrack suggest a "soundscape that aims to match the film's visual ambition—measured, expansive, and emotionally loaded." [citation:9] However, some critics have noted that the musical scale begins to feel a bit repetitive as the teaser progresses.

⚠️ Where It Falls Short

• Over-Reliance on CGI: Some portions feel overly fabricated, distancing the viewer from immersion.
• Casting Doubts: While Ranbir Kapoor fits the role, some critics remain unconvinced about his ability to fully embody Lord Ram.
• Repetitive Music: The musical score, despite its star power, feels repetitive in some stretches.
• Scale Over Substance: The film's grand scale occasionally overshadows the emotional depth of the storytelling.
• Part 1 Cliffhanger: As the first of two parts, the film may end on an unresolved note, testing the patience of viewers.

💭 My Final Thoughts

Ramayana Part 1 is not just a film—it's a statement. It represents Indian cinema's ambition to compete on the global stage with projects of this scale. The film's visual ambition, combined with a stellar cast and a story that has inspired billions for centuries, makes it a must-watch event.

While it has its flaws—over-reliance on CGI, occasional unevenness in the performances—it also delivers moments of genuine emotional resonance. As India Today observed, "If a mere glimpse can pull you in this strongly, the film may have already cleared its first real test.

This is a film that demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible—in IMAX 3D—to fully appreciate its scale and ambition. For fans of Indian cinema, this is an unmissable experience.

📺 Where to Watch Ramayana Part 1

Ramayana Part 1 will be released in theatres worldwide during Diwali 2026 (November 5).

📊 Ratings Breakdown

Final Verdict

Ramayana Part 1 is India's most ambitious cinematic epic, combining a star-studded cast, world-class VFX, and a story that has inspired billions for centuries. While it has its flaws—over-reliance on CGI and occasional unevenness—the film's ambition and emotional core make it a must-watch event. 8.0/10 from my side.

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📌 Disclaimer

This review is my honest, independent opinion based on the teaser, early screening reactions, and available information. I am not associated with Prime Focus Studios, DNEG, or any cast/crew members. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. GetMovieLinks.Online is not affiliated with any production house or streaming platform.