The highly anticipated first glimpse of Ramayana: The Introduction, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has arrived, captivating audiences with its breathtaking visuals and evocative background score. Released on July 3, 2025, across nine major Indian cities, this three-minute preview sets the stage for what promises to be a landmark retelling of the revered Indian epic. Featuring a stellar cast including Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, and Yash as Ravana, the film has already sparked widespread excitement for its Diwali 2026 release. Early reactions praise its grand scale, innovative technology, and emotional resonance, positioning it as a cinematic milestone for Indian storytelling.

A Visual Spectacle Redefining Indian Cinema

The first glimpse of Ramayana: Part 1 showcases a visual grandeur that has left audiences and critics in awe. Produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, the film leverages the expertise of Oscar-winning VFX studio DNEG, known for its work on global blockbusters. The three-minute teaser, described as a “visual masterpiece” features meticulously crafted scenes that bring the mythical world of the Ramayana to life with unparalleled authenticity. A 7-minute vision showreel, offering insights into the film’s ambitious production, has further amplified anticipation, though it will be released closer to the theatrical debut.

A Musical Journey by Masters

Complementing the stunning visuals is a background score crafted by the legendary duo of Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman. Their collaboration promises an auditory experience that matches the film’s epic scope. Early reactions highlight the score’s ability to evoke the emotional depth of the Ramayana, with soaring melodies and intricate compositions that resonate with the saga’s themes of duty, love, and conflict. This partnership between a Hollywood icon and an Indian maestro underscores the film’s ambition to bridge global and local storytelling traditions, creating a soundscape that is both timeless and contemporary.

A Star-Studded Ensemble and Cultural Significance

The cast of Ramayana: Part 1 brings together some of India’s most celebrated talents, with Ranbir Kapoor embodying Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi portraying Sita, and Yash delivering a nuanced take on Ravana. Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Laxman add depth to the ensemble, each stepping into roles steeped in cultural and spiritual significance. Producer Namit Malhotra has emphasized the film’s mission to present “the most authentic, sacred, and visually stunning adaptation” of the Ramayana, aiming to honor its legacy for a global audience. The project’s scale, with a reported budget of ₹835 crore, makes it India’s most expensive film to date, surpassing previous record-holders like Kalki 2898 AD and Adipurush.

Learning from the Past

The shadow of Adipurush, a previous Ramayana adaptation criticized for its poor VFX and narrative missteps, looms large. Nitesh Tiwari’s team appears determined to avoid similar pitfalls, with a focus on authenticity and technical excellence. The involvement of DNEG, which has won eight Academy Awards for visual effects, signals a commitment to delivering a polished and respectful adaptation. Critics and fans alike are hopeful that Ramayana: Part 1 will succeed where its predecessor faltered, offering a faithful yet innovative retelling that resonates with modern audiences while honoring the epic’s sacred roots.

Looking Ahead

With filming for Ramayana: Part 1 complete and post-production underway, the stage is set for a grand theatrical release during Diwali 2026, followed by Part 2 in 2027. The 7-minute vision showreel, expected to delve deeper into the film’s making, will be unveiled closer to the release date, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at this monumental project. As Indian cinema continues to push boundaries, Ramayana: The Introduction stands as a bold testament to the power of storytelling, technology, and cultural pride, poised to redefine the epic for a new generation.