Ramanand Sagar’s Grandson Shiv Sagar Reacts to ‘Ramayana’ Trailer, Hopes Ranbir Kapoor Is Accepted As Lord Rama
Shiv Sagar, grandson of legendary Ramayan director Ramanand Sagar, praised the grand scale, visual effects, and performance of Yash as Ravana in the trailer for Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming film adaptation. While noting that the inclusion of original TV Rama actor Arun Govil as King Dasharatha serves as a fitting homage to his grandfather's legacy,
Following the release of the official trailer for Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming epic film Ramayana, Shiv Sagar, grandson of legendary director Ramanand Sagar, creator of the iconic 1987 TV series Ramayana, has shared his candid thoughts on the modern visual spectacle and its star-studded ensemble. Praising the production values, Sagar expressed optimism about the cinematic adaptation while noting his hope that audiences will embrace lead actor Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama. ‘Ramayana’: Alia Bhatt Cheers for Husband Ranbir Kapoor’s Upcoming Mythological Film Co-Starring Yash.
Shiv Sagar Hails ‘Ramayana’ Trailer
Reflecting on his initial impressions, Sagar admitted that earlier promotional assets had left him sceptical regarding the visual presentation relative to the scale of the budget. "I quite liked it, to be honest," Sagar said. "In the earlier promotional asset, I felt that the quality of the graphics did not match the scale of the budget. However, after watching the trailer and seeing the ensemble cast, I am impressed. I thought Yash looked brilliant as Ravana. Sai Pallavi, too, suits the character of Sita, especially in the way she speaks and articulates herself. Overall, I think it looks very grand."
Sagar also highlighted specific creative elements from the footage, praising how key mythological sequences were envisioned on screen. "Even the way Pushpak Viman has been conceived is praiseworthy," he remarked. "I also liked Surpanakha's (Rakul Preet Singh) entry on the tiger chariot." Addressing Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Rama, Sagar acknowledged the actor’s recent screen persona and expressed hope for public reception. "I only hope that Ranbir Kapoor is accepted as Rama, and I wish him luck," Sagar noted.
"After Animal (2023), people may have formed a certain image of him. At the same time, with the ensemble cast and the grand visual experience, the film might go down well with the audience." He further suggested that the ambitious project appears designed to appeal beyond domestic borders. "I assume that they have made it with an international audience in mind," Sagar said. "It would be great if the film opens up the global market for Indian mythology, culture, and fantasy. If they manage to pull it off successfully, it will be wonderful and will benefit Indian cinema as a whole."
In addition, Sagar touched upon the inclusion of Arun Govil, who originally essayed Lord Rama in the 1987 classic and now portrays King Dasharatha in Tiwari's film, calling it "a very good and smart strategy" and "a wonderful way to pay tribute to Ramanand Sagar ji and his Ramayan." More About 'Ramayana'Helmed by director Nitesh Tiwari and backed by producer Namit Malhotra, Ramayana is being mounted as a two-part cinematic event on a reported budget of INR 4,000 crore. ‘Ramayana’ Trailer Reactions: Yash’s Fierce Ravana and Ranbir Kapoor-Sai Pallavi’s Divine Avatars Set Internet Ablaze; Netizens Say ‘Indian Cinema Peaked Here’ (Watch Video).
The grand adaptation stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, Ravie Dubey as Lakshmana, and Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha. Designed to reinterpret the ancient Indian epic through cutting-edge visual effects and high-definition 3D technology, the first instalment of the multi-part project is slated for a worldwide theatrical release during Diwali 2026.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 31, 2026 06:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).