Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘Ramayana’: Cast, Budget, Release Date – All You Need To Know About Namit Malhotra’s Magnum Opus

The highly anticipated cinematic adaptation of the Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra, has reached a significant milestone with the official unveiling of its first extensive look. Starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, the project is being positioned as the most expensive and ambitious venture in the history of Indian cinema. With a massive ensemble cast and a visual scale aimed at global audiences, the film is set to be released in two parts, beginning in late 2026. ‘Ramayana’ Teaser: Ranbir Kapoor Looks Divine and Majestic As ‘Maryada Purushottam’ Ram in Epic First Look (Watch Video).

‘Ramayana’ First Glimpse 'Rama' Teaser Unveiled on Hanuman Jayanti

On April 2, 2026, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Hanuman Jayanti, the makers of Ramayana released a special teaser titled 'Rama.' The two-minute and 38-second clip offers the first official footage of Ranbir Kapoor in the lead role, following months of intense physical and spiritual preparation by the actor.

Watch the ‘Rama’ First Look Glimpse

Unlike earlier title announcements, this teaser focuses on the character-driven nature of the film, showcasing the emotional depth of the protagonist. Early reactions from private screenings in Mumbai and the US have praised the "visual wonder" created through high-end VFX, describing it as a modern retelling that remains deeply rooted in cultural tradition.

‘Ramayana’  Cast

Ramayana has confirmed a powerhouse ensemble that brings together major stars from across various Indian film industries. The confirmed lineup for the epic includes:

-Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama

-Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita

-Yash as Ravana

-Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman

-Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi

-Sheeba Chaddha as Manthara

-Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari

-Vivek Oberoi as Vidyutjihva

-Indira Krishnan as Kaushalya

-Ravie Dubey as Lakshman

-Arun Govil as King Dasharath.

The casting of Arun Govil, who played Lord Rama in the classic 1987 TV series Ramayan by Ramanand Sagar, as King Dasharath in Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana has been particularly noted by fans as a symbolic passing of the torch. ‘Ramayana’: Kajal Aggarwal, Lara Dutta, Vivek Oberoi and More – Actors Who Confirmed Being Part of Ranbir Kapoor and Yash’s Mythological Saga Through Social Media!

‘Ramayana’ Part 1 and 2 Plot and Narrative Structure

Director Nitesh Tiwari is adapting the epic in a two-part format to ensure the narrative's scale is fully captured. Ramayana Part 1 is expected to focus on Rama’s early life, his marriage to Sita, and the events leading up to their exile, while Ramayana Part 2 will shift toward the search for Sita and the climactic battle in Lanka. The screenplay aims to balance the spiritual essence of the original text with modern cinematic storytelling, emphasising the human emotions behind the divine figures.

‘Ramayana’ Production and Global Collaboration

Ramayana is a collaborative effort between Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and DNEG, and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations. To match the technical standards of international epics, Ramayana has secured a historic musical collaboration: Oscar Award-winner Hans Zimmer and Academy Award-winner AR Rahman are co-composing the score.

First Reveal of Nitesh Tiwari’s ‘Ramayana’ - Watch Video: 

‘Ramayana’ Censor Details and Accessibility

The 'Rama' teaser featuring Ranbir Kapoor recently received a 'U' (Universal) certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). This rating confirms the makers' intent to make the film accessible to all age groups, emphasising its status as a "cultural milestone" for families.

‘Ramayana’ Budget

The 2026-27 Ramayana franchise is reportedly being produced on a staggering budget of INR 1,600 crore (approximately USD 190 million) for both parts. Other reports suggest the total investment could reach up to USD 500 million by the completion of the second instalment, making it the most expensive Indian film series ever greenlit. ‘Ramayana’ Teaser Reactions: Netizens in Awe of Ranbir Kapoor’s Lord Rama Avatar, CGI Draws ‘Adipurush’ Comparisons (Watch Video).

‘Ramayana’ Part 1 and Part 2 Release Date

The first instalment of Ramayana is officially scheduled to hit global theatres on Diwali 2026. The concluding chapter, Ramayana: Part 2, is slated for a follow-up release during Diwali 2027.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 02, 2026 12:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).