Ranbir reflects on playing Lord Rama in Ramayana: ‘Hope audiences feel something deeper’
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Yashaswini Sri
Producer Namit Malhotra is launching a massive cinematic universe based on the Ramayana, aiming to surpass the scale of Hollywood franchises. Starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Yash as Ravana, the team is calling for audience support to elevate Indian mythology on a global stage.
A New Horizon for Indian Mythology
Producer Namit Malhotra has unveiled an ambitious vision for the upcoming Ramayana Part 1, setting the stage for a sprawling cinematic universe that aims to eclipse the scale of established Hollywood powerhouses like Marvel, DC, and Star Wars. Ahead of the film's world premiere at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles on October 27, Malhotra has clarified that this project is not merely a film or a two-part franchise, but the foundation for an interconnected ecosystem of spin-offs, interactive games, and immersive theme parks. By framing the Ramayana as a living philosophy rather than a static narrative, the production team is positioning Indian mythology as a global cultural asset.
The Emotional Weight of the Epic
Central to the project is Ranbir Kapoor, who portrays Lord Rama, describing the role as one of the most significant emotional journeys of his career. Kapoor emphasizes that the film serves as a vessel for timeless values—strength, compassion, and duty—that he believes are essential for contemporary audiences. By focusing on the character's internal moral compass, the production aims to move beyond traditional spectacle, seeking to evoke a deeper, more resonant connection with viewers that transcends the standard cinematic experience.
Scaling Global Ambitions
Malhotra’s strategy relies on treating the epic as a multi-generational legacy. The intent to move into gaming and theme parks suggests a desire to create a 360-degree brand experience. This mirrors the successful transmedia storytelling strategies employed by Western studios, yet it is uniquely rooted in the depth of Indian heritage. The scale of this ambition reflects a pivotal moment for Indian cinema, as it seeks to command international attention while maintaining the cultural integrity of its source material.
The Call for Creative Support
During a recent pre-release event in Hyderabad, actor Yash, who joins the project as both the antagonist Ravana and a producing partner, issued a poignant plea to the public. He urged audiences to approach the film with an open mind, specifically asking them to refrain from fixating on potential visual-effects (VFX) imperfections. Yash argued that supporting visionary filmmakers like Malhotra is crucial for the long-term health of the Indian film industry, suggesting that premature criticism could stifle the kind of bold, large-scale risk-taking required to compete on the global stage.
Bridging Tradition and Technology
Director Nitesh Tiwari’s straightforward approach to filmmaking is being heralded as the anchor for this massive undertaking. By balancing high-end production values with a narrative focused on the core tenets of the Ramayana, the team is attempting to synthesize ancient wisdom with modern technological spectacle. The collaborative efforts of Kapoor, Yash, and Malhotra underscore a unified front dedicated to proving that Indian stories have the complexity and universal appeal to dominate the global box office.
Future Implications and Outlook
If successful, this cinematic universe could redefine how Indian epics are adapted for international audiences. By building a roadmap that includes interactive media and physical experiences, the Ramayana project is setting a new benchmark for intellectual property management in India. The industry is watching closely to see if this marriage of deep cultural roots and massive commercial ambition can truly deliver a sustainable, world-class franchise that resonates across borders.