The teaser of filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari’s much-anticipated film Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor, was unveiled in Los Angeles ahead of its official release in India, sparking debate among fans on social media.
According to reports, the first glimpse of the film was showcased at a special event in Los Angeles on March 31, days before it was made available to Indian audiences. The teaser is scheduled for release in India on April 2, coinciding with the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti.
The decision to premiere the teaser overseas drew mixed reactions online, with several users questioning why a film rooted in Indian mythology was first presented to an international audience. Many expressed disappointment, arguing that Indian viewers, who share a strong cultural connection with the Ramayana, should have been prioritised for the initial unveiling.
The teaser launch in Los Angeles was attended by members of the film’s core team, including Ranbir Kapoor, director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra. The event was part of a broader strategy to position the film as a global cinematic project, with the makers aiming to reach international audiences alongside domestic viewers.
Ramayana is being developed as a two-part epic and is described as one of the most ambitious Indian film projects to date. The film features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana, with a large ensemble cast supporting the narrative.
The project has been mounted on a significant scale, with extensive visual effects work and international collaborations. The music for the film is being composed by A.R. Rahman along with Hans Zimmer, marking a notable cross-industry partnership.
Reports also indicate that the teaser screenings in Los Angeles and other international locations were organised as exclusive previews to build early buzz around the film. The approach aligns with the makers’ stated vision of presenting Ramayana as a global spectacle, comparable in scale to major international productions.
However, the LA-first strategy has continued to fuel online discussions, with some users suggesting that the move reflects a growing trend of targeting overseas markets and diaspora audiences in Bollywood’s promotional campaigns. Others defended the decision, noting that global launches are increasingly common for large-scale productions aiming for international reach.
The teaser’s India release on April 2 marks the beginning of the film’s official promotional campaign. The film is slated for a Diwali 2026 release, with the first part expected to hit theatres in November.