The anticipation for one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious projects has reached fever pitch. Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor in the iconic role of Lord Ram, has finally unveiled its first look teaser on July 3, 2025, igniting a firestorm of excitement among fans worldwide. This mythological masterpiece, a heartfelt tribute to ancient Indian heritage, promises breathtaking visuals and authentic storytelling that honors the epic’s timeless essence. As post-production ramps up with the edit of Part One now locked and VFX work kicking off, the film is poised to redefine epic filmmaking.
While the full trailer is yet to come, the nearly three-minute teaser offers tantalizing glimpses into the grand scale – from ethereal archery sequences to majestic sets that transport viewers to Ayodhya. Producer Namit Malhotra’s vision, shared back in November 2024, emphasized creating “the most authentic, sacred, and visually stunning adaptation” of the 5,000-year-old tale. With Oscar-winning VFX house DNEG on board, Ramayana isn’t just a movie; it’s a global celebration of culture and devotion.
First Look of ‘Ramayana’: The Thrilling Announcement
The big reveal kicked off a promotional blitz that’s already buzzing across social media. Malhotra’s announcement post featured a striking poster: a gleaming arrow symbolizing divine power, etched with the film’s title and release windows – “Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana.” Fans were treated to snippets showcasing Ranbir’s poised portrayal of Ram, Yash’s menacing Ravana, and the lush, immersive world-building that blends tradition with cutting-edge tech.
Filming wrapped earlier this year, with Ranbir celebrating his final day on set amid cheers from the crew. The teaser, clocking in at under three minutes, teases key moments like the exile and early alliances, without spoiling the core narrative. Speculation runs high that Part One will climax with the dramatic Sita Haran episode, leaving audiences craving the sequel. This isn’t mere hype – it’s the dawn of a marketing saga designed to build reverence and reverence for the epic’s sacred roots.
Ramayana: Cast and Crew
What elevates Ramayana to legendary status is its powerhouse ensemble, handpicked to embody the epic’s divine characters with nuance and intensity. Directed by Dangal fame Nitesh Tiwari, the film is produced by Namit Malhotra under Prime Focus Studios, ensuring a blend of emotional depth and spectacle.
Here’s the star-studded lineup:
- Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram: The versatile actor transforms into the epitome of dharma, bringing quiet strength and vulnerability to the prince of Ayodhya. Ranbir’s prep included a major lifestyle overhaul – quitting smoking and adopting a disciplined regimen to honor the role.
- Sai Pallavi as Sita: The Premam star infuses grace and resilience into the devoted consort, marking her Bollywood debut in this pan-Indian spectacle.
- Yash as Ravana: Fresh off KGF, the ‘Rocking Star’ unleashes fury as the ten-headed demon king, promising a villainous arc that’s both terrifying and tragic.
- Sunny Deol as Hanuman: The action icon steps into the devoted vanara warrior’s shoes, channeling raw power and unwavering loyalty.
- Ravi Dubey as Lakshman: As Ram’s steadfast brother, Dubey adds fierce protectiveness to the sibling bond.
- Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi: The former Miss Universe portrays the queen whose boon sparks the exile, layering ambition with maternal conflict.
- Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha: She embodies the demoness whose humiliation ignites the Lanka war.
- Arun Govil as Dasharatha: The original TV Ram returns as the Ayodhya king, adding meta-nostalgia to the throne.
This dream team, spanning Bollywood, South cinema, and TV legends, ensures Ramayana resonates across generations.
Ramayana: Release Date (Expected)
Ramayana arrives as a two-part odyssey, timed perfectly for festive fervor. Part One storms theaters on Diwali 2026, with Part Two following suit in Diwali 2027 – a strategic nod to the epic’s themes of light over darkness. Amid rumors of a whopping Rs 4,000 crore budget (debunked by Malhotra as exaggerated), the focus remains on quality over scale.
With the edit locked for the first installment, VFX polishing is underway, signaling a smooth path to release. Expect trailers soon, ramping up the countdown to this cinematic puja.
Fans React to Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash’s ‘Ramayana’
The teaser didn’t just drop – it exploded online, amassing millions of views and sparking endless debates. Fans hailed the visuals as “next-level,” with one X user gushing, “Yash as Ravana has me shook – this is going to be massive before Toxic even hits!” Another celebrated Ranbir’s birthday amid the buzz: “Happy Birthday to our Ram! #Ramayana hype is unreal.”
Excitement blends with curiosity: “Finally, a logo and glimpses – but bring on the full trailer! Don’t leave us hanging,” tweeted a devotee. Even as Malhotra quashed budget myths, the chorus is clear: Ramayana isn’t a film; it’s a movement. Will it shatter box-office records? The faithful say yes – and they’re already chanting Jai Shri Ram.