Nitesh Tiwari’s ‘Ramayana’ Becomes India’s Most Expensive Film

Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious adaptation of the epic tale *Ramayana* has officially become India’s most expensive film, with a staggering budget exceeding ₹4,000 crore, which is approximately $500 million. The film is set to be released in two parts, with the first installment scheduled for Diwali 2026 and the second for Diwali 2027.

Initially estimated at around ₹1,600 crore, the project has grown significantly in scope. Producer Namit Malhotra noted that the film aims to match the scale of some of the largest international productions. The film will incorporate extensive visual effects and is being developed for a grand IMAX release. A notable innovation includes the use of AI dubbing technology, which will facilitate seamless viewing in various regional languages, marking a first for Indian cinema.

The visual effects for *Ramayana* are being managed by Prime Focus, a studio known for its work on high-profile international projects. Malhotra expressed his confidence in the film’s unprecedented scale, stating, “No Indian film, by a long distance, comes close to it… We’re making the largest film in the world for the greatest story, the greatest epic, that the world should see.” He emphasized that despite the film’s substantial budget, it remains financially responsible when compared to the costs of similar Hollywood blockbusters.

The cast of *Ramayana* features prominent actors, including Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravan, and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. Other notable cast members include Ravi Dubey, Lara Dutta, Vikrant Massey, and Arun Govil. Malhotra described the film as an effort to honor India’s rich cultural heritage, stating, “We’re taking something that we have pride in — it’s a foundational piece of our culture — and presenting it in the grandest form possible.” He added, “There has to be pride that must come through, in every Indian first, and then every other person in the world.”

The film’s first motion poster, which showcased animated previews of the characters portrayed by Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, has generated significant excitement. The original score, created by renowned composers Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, further fuels anticipation for the release.

As *Ramayana* prepares for its debut, the production aims to redefine the cinematic experience in India, showcasing the richness of its cultural narratives on a grand scale. The project not only seeks to attract audiences domestically but also aims to resonate with viewers worldwide, reaffirming the timeless relevance of its story.