Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and led by Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, Ramayana is shaping up to be the most expensive film in Indian cinema. Produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios, the ambitious two-part saga comes with a staggering budget of ₹4,000 crore. With a star-studded ensemble, international technicians, and cutting-edge technology, the makers hope to catapult Indian mythology onto the global stage.
In a recent interview with the LA Times, Malhotra underlined his worldwide vision for the project. “It’s a global film from the day we start. I’m not trying to make it only for Indian audiences. If people in the West don’t like it, I’ll consider it a failure. This story is meant for the world,” he declared, while boldly comparing Ramayana to Hollywood epics like Avatar, Gladiator, and even the works of Christopher Nolan.
Malhotra stressed that the film is designed to connect beyond cultural or religious lines, appealing to both believers and non-believers. Director Nitesh Tiwari reinforced this thought, emphasising the universality of emotion. “Emotions are universal. If the audience connects emotionally, they will connect with the story, no matter where they’re from,” he said.
About the film
The two-part epic stars Ranbir Kapoor as Ram, Yash as Ravana, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Amitabh Bachchan as Jatayu, and Ravi Dubey as Laxman. With music by Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman, Ramayana is slated for a Diwali 2026 release.