Namit Malhotra's 'Ramayana' Unveils 'The Introduction': A Global Cinematic Epic Forged by East-West Collaboration
Namit Malhotra's 'Ramayana,' a monumental two-part live-action cinematic universe based on the revered epic set 5,000 years ago, is set to redefine mythological storytelling on a global scale. Reimagined with the grandeur of the biggest tentpole productions to date, this ambitious project unites celebrated talent from Hollywood and India in an unprecedented partnership.
A Visionary Production: Oscar-Winning Talent and Global Release
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, 'Ramayana' is a collaborative effort between Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and the 8-time Oscar-winning VFX studio DNEG, in association with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations. The film is being specifically filmed for IMAX and is slated for a worldwide release, with Part 1 arriving on Diwali 2026 and Part 2 on Diwali 2027.
Today, the creators behind this most ambitious cinematic event globally unveiled ‘Ramayana: The Introduction’ — a captivating glimpse into the epic universe. This introduction sets the stage for the timeless battle between two of mythology’s most iconic forces: Rama vs. Ravana. The global launch spanned nine Indian cities with fan screenings and culminated in a spectacular billboard takeover in New York's Times Square, showcasing the project's immense worldwide reach. Led by visionary filmmaker and producer Namit Malhotra and co-produced by Yash, 'Ramayana' brings together a formidable army of Oscar-winning technicians, Hollywood’s finest creators, and India’s biggest names in acting and storytelling. Their collective aim is to recreate one of civilization’s most powerful epics as a cutting-edge cinematic universe, deeply rooted in Indian culture yet meticulously crafted for a global audience.
The Story: Cosmic Balance and Eternal Conflict
Set in a timeless age, the universe is held in delicate balance by the cosmic trinity – Brahma the Creator, Vishnu the Protector, and Shiva the Destroyer – who strive to preserve harmony among gods, sages, humans, and demons. However, from the ashes of this balance, a new and terrifying force emerges. An unlikely demon child transforms into Ravana – the most feared and indestructible king in all creation. His roar shakes the heavens, and his singular purpose is clear: to destroy Vishnu, the god of protection, whom he believes has always stood against his kind.
To thwart him, Vishnu descends to Earth in his weakest form – as a mortal prince named Rama. Thus begins the eternal battle: Rama vs. Ravana. Mortal vs. Immortal. Light vs. Darkness. This is Ramayana — a story of cosmic war, timeless destiny, and the triumph of good — a narrative that continues to shape the spirit of billions today.
Stellar Cast and Global Creative Team
In a stellar casting coup, 'Ramayana' brings together India’s biggest stars to embody the epic's characters:
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Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, a fourth-generation icon of Indian cinema.
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Yash, India’s leading pan-India superstar and co-producer, as Ravana.
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Sai Pallavi as the beloved Sita.
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Sunny Deol, Indian cinema’s enduring action hero, as Hanuman.
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Ravie Dubey in a refreshing new role as Lakshman, Rama’s loyal brother.
Supporting this powerful cast is an extraordinary crew, marking a first-time collaboration of legends. Oscar-winning composers Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman join forces to craft a new cinematic symphony. Hollywood’s top stunt directors— Terry Notary (Avengers, Planet of the Apes) and Guy Norris (Mad Max: Fury Road, Furiosa) — are choreographing the epic battles between gods and demons. The visual grandeur of ancient India is being reimagined by renowned production designers Ravi Bansal (Dune 2, Aladdin) and Ramsey Avery (Captain America, Tomorrowland), promising an immersive cinematic experience at an unprecedented scale.
A Vision from India to the World
Namit Malhotra, producer, filmmaker, founder of Prime Focus, and CEO of DNEG, shared his profound vision: “This is a cultural movement for every Indian around the world. With Ramayana, we’re not just retelling history; we’re introducing our legacy to the world. Bringing together the finest global talent allows us to tell this story with authenticity, emotion, and state-of-the-art cinematic innovation. We’ve seen Ramayana portrayed before — but this version reimagines its landscapes, creatures, and battles with the scale and splendor they deserve. As Indians, this is our truth. Now, it will be our gift to the world.”
Nitesh Tiwari, the film's director, echoed this sentiment: “Ramayana is a story we’ve all grown up with. It carries the soul of our culture. Our aim was to honor that soul — and present it with the cinematic scale it truly deserves. As a filmmaker, it’s both a huge responsibility and a heartfelt honor to bring it to life. It’s a tale that has endured across millennia because it speaks to something deep and eternal within us. We are not simply making a film. We are offering a vision — one rooted in reverence, shaped by excellence, and made to transcend borders.”
Crafted for the world’s most immersive formats, including IMAX, 'Ramayana' is envisioned as a transcendent theatrical experience — a cinematic odyssey into the heart of one of humanity’s most enduring epics. The exclusive media premiere of the glimpse on the state-of-the-art PCX screen at Prasads left critics in awe, hailing it as a visual marvel and an experience unlike anything they had witnessed before.
