Ranbir Kapoor has stepped into one of the most revered roles in Indian mythology, portraying Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious two-part cinematic retelling of the ancient epic Ramayana. In an exclusive interview with the Associated Press at an IMAX theatre in Burbank, California, the Bollywood star opened up about the profound personal and professional significance of the project, revealing how fatherhood has deepened his connection to the timeless tale of duty, exile, and righteousness.
Kapoor admitted he does not particularly enjoy the promotional side of acting but feels compelled to champion Ramayana because of its cultural and global importance. Speaking alongside director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra, head of Prime Focus Studios and DNEG, he described the film as a sincere attempt to bring India’s greatest story to audiences worldwide with Hollywood-level scale and visual grandeur. The team screened an early 3D trailer, showcasing breathtaking visuals designed for IMAX screens, and confirmed that production on Part 2 is already well underway while Part 1 heads toward post-production.
The project marks a turning point for Kapoor. He initially hesitated to accept the role but changed his mind after becoming a father to daughter Raha. In the AP interview, he shared a touching anecdote about narrating Ramayana stories to his young child at home while simultaneously embodying Lord Rama on set. Raha’s innocent questions, such as “Did you shoot with Hanuman today?” or inquiries about Sita, have made the experience deeply personal and emotionally enriching. Kapoor called the coincidence of fatherhood and this role an extraordinary blessing that has infused his performance with greater sincerity and emotional depth.
Director Nitesh Tiwari, known for heartfelt hits like Dangal, has crafted the screenplay with Shridhar Raghavan to stay faithful to Valmiki’s original epic without unnecessary creative liberties. The film avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on core values of dharma, sacrifice, and moral strength. Producer Namit Malhotra has positioned the epic as a grand spectacle comparable to Avatar meets Gladiator or even Lord of the Rings, blending cutting-edge VFX with authentic cultural representation. With a massive budget reportedly exceeding ₹4,000 crore, the production leverages world-class talent, including Oscar-winner Hans Zimmer collaborating with A.R. Rahman on the score.
The star-studded cast includes Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana (with the two leads not sharing screen time in Part 1 to build narrative tension), Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, and supporting roles filled by Lara Dutta, Kajal Aggarwal, and others. Part 1 is slated for a worldwide release during Diwali 2026, with Part 2 following in Diwali 2027. Both installments will receive a major IMAX rollout, aiming to deliver an immersive big-screen experience that transcends borders.
Ranbir Kapoor also plays the dual role of Lord Parshuram in the saga, adding layers to his performance. He emphasized the responsibility of portraying a divine figure who symbolizes ideal leadership and virtue. The actor stressed that the team consulted experts and stayed true to the source material to respect sentiments while creating a visually stunning film that can compete with major Hollywood blockbusters like Dune 3 and The Odyssey.
This Ramayana arrives at a time when global audiences are embracing large-scale mythological and cultural stories. The teaser released on Hanuman Jayanti offered the first official glimpse of Kapoor as Rama, generating massive excitement with its fiery visuals and epic scale. Early reactions highlight the transformation and intensity the actor brings to the role, blending physical prowess with quiet emotional strength.
For Kapoor, the project represents more than just another film. It has become a personal journey of growth and cultural pride. As he balances intense shooting schedules with family life, the experience has reinforced his belief in storytelling as a bridge between generations and cultures. He urged fans to witness India’s greatest story told with sincerity and grandeur on the big screen.
With promotion gaining momentum through international events like CinemaCon, anticipation continues to build. The combination of star power, visionary direction, groundbreaking VFX, and a culturally resonant narrative positions Ramayana as one of the most ambitious Indian films ever attempted. As Part 1 nears completion, audiences worldwide await the chance to experience this modern retelling of an eternal epic that continues to inspire millions.
Ranbir Kapoor’s dedication, both on and off screen, signals that this Ramayana will not only entertain but also reaffirm timeless values for a new generation of viewers across the globe.
