Summary
The unveiling of the first look of Ramayana: Part I, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has set the internet ablaze with excitement and anticipation. Featuring a stellar cast with Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Yash as Ravana, and Sai Pallavi as Sita, this ambitious two-part cinematic adaptation of the revered Hindu epic promises to be a landmark moment in Indian cinema. Released on July 3, 2025, the three-minute teaser has sparked widespread praise for its breathtaking visual effects (VFX), compelling narrative setup, and a grandeur that rivals global cinematic giants like Game of Thrones.
With a reported budget of Rs 835 crore, Ramayana: Part I is poised to redefine storytelling in Indian films, leaving behind the disappointments of previous adaptations like Adipurush and drawing comparisons to other VFX-heavy blockbusters such as Brahmastra. This article delves into the overwhelming positive reactions to the first look, the film’s groundbreaking VFX, its cultural significance, and why it’s being hailed as a cinematic milestone.
A Glimpse into an Epic Saga
The first look of Ramayana: Part I was unveiled across nine Indian cities and made a global impact with a billboard takeover in New York’s Times Square, underscoring its international ambitions. The teaser introduces audiences to the cosmic trinity of Hindu mythology—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—setting the stage for the eternal clash between Lord Ram and Ravana, described as the “war to end all wars.” The tagline, “Our Truth, Our History,” resonates deeply with Indian audiences, emphasizing the film’s commitment to honoring the cultural and spiritual essence of the Ramayana while delivering a modern cinematic experience.
The teaser offers fleeting yet powerful glimpses of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, drawing a bow with serene determination, and Yash as Ravana, exuding intensity and menace. Notably, the teaser does not feature Sai Pallavi as Sita, leaving fans eager for more. The three-minute clip, accompanied by a majestic score composed by Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, has been crafted to build anticipation without revealing too much of the plot. This strategic approach has fueled curiosity and positioned Ramayana: Part I as a must-watch cinematic event slated for release during Diwali 2026, with Part II following in Diwali 2027.
Stellar VFX: A Game-Changer for Indian Cinema
One of the standout elements of the Ramayana: Part I is its cutting-edge visual effects, handled by DNEG, an eight-time Oscar-winning VFX studio known for its work on films like Interstellar and Dune. The teaser’s CGI is a testament to the film’s ambition, showcasing intricate details in the title card, battle sequences, and mythological landscapes. Fans have lauded the VFX for its Hollywood-level quality, with the face-off between Lord Ram and Ravana being a particular highlight. The seamless integration of advanced technology and mythological storytelling has set a new benchmark for Indian cinema, proving that Indian filmmakers can compete on a global scale.
The attention to detail in the teaser’s visuals, from the depiction of Ayodhya’s grandeur to the stylized portrayal of the Hindu trinity, has been described as “jaw-dropping” and “mind-blowingly unbelievable” by netizens. The VFX not only enhances the narrative but also immerses viewers in a world that feels both mythical and tangible. This achievement is particularly significant given the film’s massive budget of Rs 835 crore, making it India’s most expensive film to date, surpassing other big-budget productions like Kalki 2898 AD (Rs 600 crore), RRR (Rs 550 crore), and Adipurush (Rs 550 crore).
Overcoming the Shadow of Adipurush
The release of the Ramayana: Part I has inevitably drawn comparisons to Adipurush, a 2023 adaptation of the Ramayana starring Prabhas, Kriti Sanon, and Saif Ali Khan. Adipurush faced severe criticism for its subpar VFX, colloquial dialogues, and perceived deviation from the traditional narrative, despite a hefty budget of Rs 500–700 crore. Fans and critics alike expressed disappointment over its inability to capture the epic’s grandeur, with many questioning the utilization of its resources. The backlash was so intense that Adipurush became a cautionary tale for filmmakers attempting to adapt sacred texts.
In contrast, Ramayana: Part I has been praised for learning from Adipurush’s mistakes. Social media reactions highlight the superior VFX quality, with one X user stating, “This is how it’s done! Om Raut, take lessons from Nitesh Tiwari.” Another user remarked, “Ramayana is what Om Raut thought Adipurush would look like.” The consensus is that Ramayana: Part I delivers the visual spectacle and cultural reverence that audiences expected from Adipurush. By prioritizing authenticity and investing in world-class VFX, the film has already won over skeptics who were wary after Adipurush’s failure. The involvement of DNEG and the meticulous post-production process further reassure fans that the final product will honor the Ramayana’s legacy.
Game of Thrones Parallels: A Desi Epic with Global Appeal
A surprising yet exciting aspect of the Ramayana: Part I is its comparison to Game of Thrones. The teaser’s opening sequence, with its stylized text and visuals introducing the Hindu trinity, has drawn parallels to the iconic opening credits of the HBO series. Fans have noted that the teaser’s structure, which avoids showing extensive footage while building anticipation, mirrors Game of Thrones’ approach to storytelling. The collaboration between Hans Zimmer, known for his work on The Lion King and Inception, and A.R. Rahman, a legend in Indian cinema, adds a layer of grandeur that enhances these comparisons.
The Game of Thrones parallels are not just stylistic but also thematic. While Ramayana is rooted in Hindu mythology, its universal themes of good versus evil, duty, and sacrifice resonate with global audiences, much like the fantasy epic.
Ramayana Part I First Look: A Visual Spectacle Redefining Indian Cinema
The unveiling of the first look of Ramayana: Part I, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has ignited a wave of excitement across India and beyond. Featuring a powerhouse cast with Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Yash as Ravana, and Sai Pallavi as Sita, this ambitious two-part cinematic adaptation of the revered Hindu epic promises to be a landmark in Indian cinema. Released on July 3, 2025, the three-minute teaser has garnered widespread acclaim for its breathtaking visual effects (VFX), compelling narrative setup, and a grandeur that rivals global cinematic giants like Game of Thrones.
With a reported budget of Rs 835 crore, Ramayana: Part I is poised to redefine Indian filmmaking, leaving behind the disappointments of previous adaptations like Adipurush and drawing comparisons to other VFX-heavy blockbusters such as Brahmastra. This article explores the overwhelmingly positive reactions to the first look, the film’s groundbreaking VFX, its cultural significance, and why it’s being hailed as a cinematic milestone.
Rising Above Adipurush’s Shortcomings
Comparisons to Adipurush, a 2023 Ramayana adaptation starring Prabhas, Kriti Sanon, and Saif Ali Khan, were inevitable. Adipurush faced harsh criticism for its subpar VFX, colloquial dialogues, and perceived deviations from the traditional narrative, despite a budget of Rs 500–700 crore. The film’s failure to capture the epic’s grandeur disappointed audiences, who questioned the utilization of its resources. This backlash made Adipurush a cautionary tale for adapting sacred texts.
In contrast, Ramayana: Part I has been lauded for learning from Adipurush’s mistakes. Social media reactions highlight the superior VFX, with one X user stating, “This is how it’s done! Om Raut, take lessons from Nitesh Tiwari.” Another remarked, “Ramayana is what Om Raut thought Adipurush would look like.” The consensus is that Ramayana: Part I delivers the visual spectacle and cultural reverence audiences expected. DNEG’s involvement and the careful post-production process reassure fans that the final product will respect the Ramayana’s legacy.
Game of Thrones Parallels: A Desi Epic with Global Appeal
The teaser’s opening sequence, with stylized text and visuals introducing the Hindu trinity, has drawn surprising comparisons to Game of Thrones. Fans note similarities in the teaser’s structure, which builds anticipation without revealing extensive footage, much like the HBO series’ iconic opening credits. The collaboration between Hans Zimmer (The Lion King, Inception) and A.R. Rahman adds a layer of grandeur, enhancing these parallels. The score’s orchestral depth complements the visuals, creating a larger-than-life atmosphere.
While Ramayana is rooted in Hindu mythology, its universal themes of good versus evil, duty, and sacrifice resonate globally, much like Game of Thrones. This blend of cultural authenticity and cinematic ambition positions the film to appeal to both Indian and international audiences, with Warner Bros. Pictures handling global distribution to ensure a worldwide reach.
The Brahmastra Connection
The first look has also sparked comparisons to Brahmastra: Part One – Shiva, another VFX-heavy Bollywood film directed by Ayan Mukerji and starring Ranbir Kapoor. Brahmastra was praised for its visual effects, blending folklore with modern storytelling, but some fans felt it fell short of expectations. Social media reactions to Ramayana: Part I reflect mixed sentiments, with some expressing hope that it will surpass Brahmastra’s achievements and avoid its shortcomings. Both films represent Indian cinema’s push to break barriers with advanced VFX, showcasing the industry’s growth on a global stage.
A Stellar Cast and Creative Team
The film’s ensemble cast is a major draw, featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. Additional reported cast members include Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari, and Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, adding depth to the narrative. Ranbir has described the role of Lord Ram as the most significant of his career, reflecting the emotional weight of the project. The creative team, including stunt coordinators Terry Notary and Guy Norris, ensures intense, large-scale battle sequences, while the Zimmer-Rahman collaboration promises an iconic soundtrack.
Cultural Significance and Global Aspirations
Ramayana: Part I is more than a film; it’s a cultural movement. Producer Namit Malhotra, who leads DNEG and Prime Focus Studios, views the project as a chance to showcase Indian storytelling globally. “This is a cultural movement for every Indian around the world,” Malhotra said, emphasizing the film’s role in introducing India’s legacy to international audiences. Director Nitesh Tiwari, known for Dangal, aims to balance reverence for the epic with a modern cinematic flair, ensuring it resonates with both devoted fans and new viewers.
Fan Reactions and Anticipation
Social media platforms, particularly X, have been flooded with positive reactions. Fans have called the teaser “a visual masterpiece” and “the next big thing in Indian cinema.” One user wrote, “The VFX in Ramayana is top-notch, a true spectacle!” Another praised Yash’s casting, stating, “Yash as Ravana is a revolutionary re-imagining!” However, some fans expressed caution, noting that Adipurush’s teaser was also well-received but failed to deliver. Despite these concerns, the overwhelming sentiment is one of excitement, with fans eagerly awaiting further glimpses of the film.
Why Ramayana Part I Stands Out
Several factors make Ramayana: Part I a standout project:
- Unprecedented Budget: At Rs 835 crore, it’s India’s most expensive film, enabling world-class production values.
- Elite VFX Team: DNEG’s Oscar-winning expertise ensures a visual experience on par with Hollywood blockbusters.
- Iconic Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, and others bring star power and emotional depth.
- Global Vision: With Warner Bros. distribution and a Times Square premiere, the film targets international audiences.
- Cultural Reverence: The project honors the Ramayana’s spiritual and cultural significance while embracing modern storytelling.
Looking Ahead
As Ramayana: Part I enters post-production, with filming for Part II set to begin in August 2025, anticipation continues to build. The first look has set high expectations, with fans and critics predicting a “box office hurricane” and a film that will resonate for generations. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh described the teaser as “awestruck,” predicting it will redefine Indian cinema. With its blend of cultural authenticity, cutting-edge technology, and global appeal, Ramayana: Part I is poised to be a historic achievement when it hits theaters in Diwali 2026.
FAQs on Ramayana Part I Unveiled:
1. What is Ramayana: Part I about?
Ramayana: Part I is the first part of a two-film adaptation of the Hindu epic Ramayana. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, it focuses on the story of Lord Ram, his confrontation with Ravana, and the events leading up to the iconic “war to end all wars.”
2. Who are the lead actors in the film?
The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Yash as Ravana, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. Other actors include Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari, and Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi.
3. When is Ramayana: Part I releasing?
The film is scheduled for a Diwali 2026 release, while Part II is expected to arrive during Diwali 2027.
4. What is the budget of the film?
Ramayana: Part I has a massive budget of Rs 835 crore, making it the most expensive Indian film to date.
5. Who is handling the film’s visual effects?
The VFX is being done by DNEG, an eight-time Oscar-winning studio known for its work on Interstellar and Dune.
6. What makes the teaser special?
The teaser showcases breathtaking visuals, a powerful background score by Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, and introduces viewers to the cosmic trinity—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva—while teasing the epic clash between Lord Ram and Ravana.
7. How is this film different from Adipurush?
While Adipurush faced criticism for its weak VFX and lack of cultural authenticity, Ramayana: Part I has been praised for its world-class CGI, respectful storytelling, and cinematic ambition.
8. Will the film be released globally?
Yes, Warner Bros. Pictures is handling international distribution, ensuring Ramayana: Part I reaches audiences worldwide.
9. Who is composing the music for the film?
The film’s score is a collaboration between Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, combining global orchestral grandeur with Indian classical richness.
10. Why is Ramayana: Part I considered a landmark project?
It brings together a legendary story, an elite cast, cutting-edge VFX, international collaborations, and cultural reverence—setting a new benchmark for Indian cinema both visually and narratively.