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Ramayana: Part 1

Nitesh Tiwari's two-part retelling of the Ramayana, with Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. Part 1 opens worldwide on 5 November 2026.

• Released: 5 November 2026
• Runtime: 2h 45m
• Language: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam
• Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama
• Director: Nitesh Tiwari
• Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol, Ravie Dubey
• Where to watch: In cinemas
• Our rating: 10/10

Our review

Few films arrive with as much anticipation as Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana: Part 1. It is the first chapter of a two-part retelling of Valmiki’s timeless epic, made on an unprecedented scale with DNEG’s VFX, an A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer score, and IMAX-ready visuals. Ranbir Kapoor leads as Lord Rama, Yash makes a powerful Hindi debut as Ravana, and Sai Pallavi brings a fearless new energy to Sita. The film runs 195 minutes and is certified U, which makes it a theatrical event for the whole family this Diwali season. Here is our complete review of Ramayana: Part 1.

Ramayana: Part 1 is a visually spectacular adaptation that takes the story of Rama and Ravana to a global audience without losing its heart. Nitesh Tiwari gives equal weight to the rise of Ravana and the quiet, dignified journey of Rama. The result is an epic with real scale, memorable action and a villain who commands the screen. Ranbir Kapoor plays Rama with grace and restraint, and Yash delivers an electrifying Ravana. Sai Pallavi’s Sita is a standout, and a strong supporting cast, including Shobana, Ravie Dubey, Vivek Oberoi and Rakul Preet Singh, adds depth. Pankaj Kumar and Mahesh Limaye’s cinematography, DNEG’s VFX and the A.R. Rahman–Hans Zimmer soundscape make this a big-screen experience worth booking in the biggest format you can find.

Ramayana Part 1 Cast and Crew

Plot Summary

The film begins with Ravana, not Rama. We see his devotion to Shiva, his birth to Kaikesi, driven by her ambition, and his rise from humble beginnings to the ruler of Lanka. A colossal clash that includes the takedown of Indra’s Airavat establishes just how powerful he has become.

The story then moves to Ayodhya, where we follow Rama’s early years under sage Vishwamitra, the lifting of Shiva’s bow and the exile that comes from honouring his father’s word. Alongside Sita and Lakshmana, Rama walks into the wilderness. Shurpanakha’s encounter sets the stage for the conflict ahead, Jatayu fights Ravana in an aerial duel, and Ravana’s abduction of Sita sets up the great war to come in Part 2.

Performances: Every Actor Shines

Ranbir Kapoor as Rama

Ranbir Kapoor gives one of the most disciplined performances of his career. His Rama carries quiet authority, emotional restraint and immense grace. He shows a hero defined by what he gives up rather than what he conquers. His physical command, especially in the archery sequences, is wonderful to watch and gives the role the dignity it deserves.

Yash as Ravana

Yash is a force of nature in his Hindi debut. His Ravana is intense, charismatic and commanding, and he dominates every scene he is in. Backed by Sharad Kelkar’s powerful Hindi voice, he makes the king of Lanka truly unforgettable. This is a show-stealing performance that will be talked about for a long time.

Sai Pallavi as Sita

Sai Pallavi brings divinity, strength and agency to Sita. Her Sita is a fearless, earthy warrior princess who stands firm in the face of every challenge. She conveys so much through her expressive eyes alone, and her performance is a highlight of the film.

Shobana as Kaikesi

Shobana brings elegance and a touch of classical natya to the film. As Kaikesi, she gives Ravana’s origin story emotional weight and shows the ambition that shapes her son.

Ravie Dubey as Lakshmana

Ravie Dubey plays Lakshmana with loyalty and quiet strength. He understands the role of the devoted brother and keeps his performance grounded within the larger narrative.

Arun Govil as King Dashrath

Arun Govil, who is beloved for his Rama in the classic television series, brings warmth and emotional gravity to Dashrath. His casting is a heartfelt nod to the legacy of the epic.

Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha

Rakul Preet Singh gives Shurpanakha a new dimension. Her portrayal explores the motivations behind the character’s actions, making her a meaningful part of the story.

Vivek Oberoi as Vidyutjihva

Vivek Oberoi brings a flamboyant, larger-than-life presence to Vidyutjihva. His post-interval duel is one of the film’s memorable high points.

Anupam Kher as the Voice of Jatayu

Anupam Kher’s powerful voice gives Jatayu heart and nobility. The aerial duel with Ravana is a showpiece of action blended with emotion, and his vocal performance lifts it.

Lara Dutta

Lara Dutta adds star power and polish to the ensemble, and her presence enriches the film’s royal world.

Sunny Deol as Hanuman

Sunny Deol’s Hanuman is already generating huge excitement. He appears in the end credits of this part, which builds anticipation for what he will bring to Part 2.

Technical Analysis

Direction

Nitesh Tiwari approaches the epic with ambition and clarity. By giving Ravana a rich backstory alongside Rama’s journey, he brings fresh depth to a story everyone knows. Every sequence is staged on a grand scale, and the film moves with confidence toward the war that awaits in Part 2.

Cinematography

Pankaj Kumar and Mahesh Limaye fill the frame with scale and beauty. From Lanka’s dramatic landscapes to the forests of exile, the visuals feel cinematic and immersive, and they are built to be seen on a giant screen.

Music and Score

A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer together create a rich, layered soundscape. Zimmer’s thunderous score adds weight to the battle sequences, while Rahman’s compositions, with lyrics by Dr Kumar Vishwas, bring an Indian soul to the film.

Editing

The editing keeps a 195-minute story moving across Lanka, Ayodhya and the wilderness. The action sequences, especially the opening divine battle and the Jatayu–Ravana duel, are cut for maximum impact.

VFX and Production Design

DNEG’s visual effects are a major highlight. The opening clash between Gods and Asuras is awe-inspiring, and the world-building, from flying creatures to shape-shifting demons, is on a scale rarely seen in Indian cinema.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Spectacular, world-class VFX by DNEG
• Yash’s electrifying Hindi debut as Ravana
• Ranbir Kapoor’s graceful, restrained Rama
• Sai Pallavi’s fearless and fresh take on Sita
• A well-developed backstory for Ravana
• An A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer score that elevates the big moments
• Breathtaking cinematography built for IMAX
• A U certificate that makes it suitable for the whole family

Weaknesses

• The 195-minute runtime asks for patience
• Some of Rama’s early moments move quickly
• Hanuman appears only in the end credits, so fans wait for Part 2

Final Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 Stars

Ramayana: Part 1 is a landmark moment for Indian cinema. It takes a story that lives in every home and presents it with a scale, ambition and craft that match its legacy. Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi lead a stellar cast, DNEG’s VFX is jaw-dropping, and the music rounds out an immersive experience. It sets up Part 2 beautifully. Watch it in the biggest format you can find.

FAQs

1. What is the age or certification rating of Ramayana Part 1?
The film has a U (Universal) certificate from the CBFC, which means it is suitable for all age groups.

2. Is Ramayana Part 1 suitable for children and families?
Yes. With a U certificate and a story familiar to every household, it is a good Diwali family outing. Some of the battle sequences are large in scale, so very young children may need parental guidance.

3. Is Ramayana Part 1 based on a true story?
No. It is based on the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana by sage Valmiki, which is a work of mythology and not a historical account.