Mar 31, 2026 10:23am IST
First Report: Ranbir Kapoor Unveils Glimpse of ‘Ramayana’ at Special Los Angeles Preview (EXCLUSIVE)
Los Angeles was the first to host a 'Special Glimpse' of one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious upcoming projects, "Ramayana," during a special preview event that offered audiences a visual glimpse into the highly anticipated epic.
The invite-only presentation brought together key members of the film’s creative team, including director Nitesh Tiwari, actor Ranbir Kapoor, and producer Namit Malhotra, who shared insights about bringing the ancient Indian epic to the big screen. Kapoor, who portrays Lord Rama in the film, spoke about the significance of the character, describing him as an enduring symbol of idealism and moral strength. Kapoor added Lord Rama is "maryada purushottam” (the ‘ideal man’).
Both Malhotra and Kapoor won the audience's hearts by welcoming them with “Jai Shree Ram”. Early reactions from attendees highlighted the film’s expansive world-building and striking visual effects and a powerful music score. The overall response was well-received excitement for a glimpse of a universe being created that hasn’t been seen on the big screen. Others appreciated the star cast and were exhilarated at the opportunity to see Kapoor in person.
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Malhotra mentioned that the goal to bring this story to the screen entailed bringing together creative and technical leadership from the East and the West to address the needs of the film, something he’s been building for over a decade. He stated, “Everything is original. Everything is coming from a source that exists. We didn’t have to borrow or reuse anything we have done before. It was an interesting opportunity and challenge putting this together.”
Directed by Tiwari and produced by Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios, "Ramayana" is envisioned as a sweeping two-part epic inspired by ancient Sanskrit text. The film boasts an ensemble cast led by Kapoor as Lord Rama, alongside Sai Pallavi as Sita Mata and Yash as Ravana.
The production is being mounted on an unprecedented scale, with cutting-edge visual effects handled by DNEG and music composed by Oscar-winning composers A. R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer, marking Zimmer’s first collaboration on an Indian film project. Their collaboration brings forth sounds that are epic yet rooted in tradition.
The Los Angeles preview marks a strategic step in introducing the film to international audiences ahead of its global rollout. The first installment of "Ramayana" is currently slated for release during the Diwali 2026 holiday season, with the second chapter expected to follow in 2027.
As anticipation builds, the early showcase suggests that Ramayana aims to position itself not just as a retelling of a beloved epic, but as a cinematic event designed to stand alongside the world’s biggest franchises.
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