Ranbir Kapoor's 'Ramayana' First Look Electrifies Fans; Alia Bhatt Calls it 'Unforgettable'

Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, Maharashtra: The highly anticipated first visual revelation from director Nitish Tiwari's ambitious cinematic adaptation of the epic 'Ramayana' has finally arrived, sending waves of excitement across Bollywood and among fans worldwide. Featuring acclaimed actor Ranbir Kapoor in the pivotal role of Lord Ram, the initial glimpse has been met with widespread acclaim, drawing particular praise from his wife and fellow Bollywood luminary, Alia Bhatt, who eloquently expressed that "some things don't need words" to describe the profound impact.

This monumental project, an ode to the revered Indian mythological saga of Lord Rama and Devi Sita, is set to unfold in two grand parts, with the first installment slated for a global release during Diwali 2026, followed by the second part in Diwali 2027. The sheer scale and the unprecedented casting have positioned 'Ramayana' as one of the most eagerly awaited cinematic events in recent times.

Ranbir Kapoor's Transformative Portrayal: A Fresh Chapter

For audiences, witnessing Ranbir Kapoor step into the shoes of a mythological character for the very first time is a refreshing and pleasantly surprising development. Known for his versatility and ability to delve deep into complex roles, Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Ram is expected to bring a unique blend of gravitas, serenity, and strength to the iconic deity. The initial teaser, released after the completion of filming for the first part, has successfully captivated viewers, offering a tantalizing peek into the visual grandeur and emotional depth that the film promises.

The decision to cast Kapoor, a contemporary actor with a massive fan following, in such a revered role signals a deliberate effort by the filmmakers to connect the timeless epic with modern audiences, while maintaining the sanctity and essence of the original narrative. The early reactions from both ardent fans and industry insiders suggest that this casting choice has resonated positively, fueling immense anticipation for his performance.

Alia Bhatt's Emotional Endorsement: A Message Beyond Words

Among the chorus of praise, the most poignant reaction came from Ranbir Kapoor’s wife, Alia Bhatt. Taking to her Instagram account, the celebrated actress shared the teaser of 'Ramayana' with a deeply personal and heartfelt message that encapsulated the collective awe surrounding the first look. Her caption, "Some things don't need words. This feels like the start of something unforgettable. Diwali 2026 — we're waiting," beautifully articulated the profound impact of the visuals and the anticipation building around the film.

Alia's words, simple yet powerful, resonated deeply with fans, highlighting not just her support for her husband’s ambitious venture but also a genuine appreciation for the project's artistic and spiritual significance. Her public endorsement further amplifies the buzz around 'Ramayana,' underscoring its potential to become a landmark film in Indian cinema. The emotional weight of her message hints at the deep connection and effort that has gone into bringing this epic to life.

A Star-Studded Ensemble: Bringing Legends to Life

Beyond Ranbir Kapoor, 'Ramayana' boasts an exceptionally talented and diverse cast, each bringing significant star power and acting prowess to their respective roles:

• Sai Pallavi as Sita: The highly acclaimed South Indian actress, known for her captivating performances and natural screen presence, steps into the revered role of Devi Sita, Lord Ram's consort. Her portrayal is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved character.

• Ravi Dubey as Laxaman: In a significant career milestone, popular television actor and producer Ravi Dubey is set to make his much-anticipated film debut as Laxaman, Lord Ram's devoted brother. His entry into mainstream cinema through such a prestigious project has been met with excitement. Ravi’s wife, Sargun Mehta, also expressed her overwhelming joy on social media, proclaiming that "2026 ki diwali ka intezaar meri zindagi ka sabse lamba intezaar hoga. My heart is so so full. Everytime I see the teaser, read the names on the poster, my heart swells with love and gratitude. Shukar shukar shukar. JAI SHRI RAM." Her heartfelt post underscores the personal and professional significance of this role for Ravi.

• Yash as Ravana: The Kannada superstar Yash, renowned for his charismatic screen presence and powerful performances in films like 'KGF', takes on the formidable role of Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. His casting promises an electrifying portrayal of the antagonist.

• Sunny Deol as Hanuman: Veteran actor Sunny Deol, known for his iconic action roles, will portray the mighty Lord Hanuman, the devoted vanara devotee of Lord Ram. His presence adds immense gravitas and appeal to the ensemble.

This powerful combination of talent from various film industries underscores the pan-Indian appeal and grand vision behind 'Ramayana.'

Behind the Scenes: A Confluence of Cinematic Brilliance

The production of 'Ramayana' is a collaborative effort involving some of the biggest names and most advanced technologies in the global entertainment industry. The film is produced by Namit Malhotra, with co-production credits going to Yash. The project benefits from the formidable support of Prime Focus Studios and Monster Mind Creations.

Crucially, the visual effects (VFX) for 'Ramayana' are being handled by DNEG, an eight-time Oscar-winning VFX powerhouse. Their involvement guarantees breathtaking visuals and immersive cinematic experiences, essential for an epic of this scale. The grandeur of the narrative demands visuals that can transport audiences to a mythical era, and DNEG’s expertise is expected to deliver just that.

Adding another layer of intensity to the film are the acclaimed stunt coordinators Terry Notary and Guy Norris, who are responsible for the action choreography. Their presence assures that the battle sequences and intense confrontations will be not only visually spectacular but also impactful and emotionally resonant, capturing the essence of the epic's legendary warfare.

The Road Ahead: Building Anticipation

With Part 1 of 'Ramayana' scheduled for a global release during Diwali 2026 and Part 2 following in Diwali 2027, the stage is set for a multi-year cinematic journey. The initial teaser has successfully piqued the curiosity of audiences, who are now eagerly awaiting the release of the full-length trailer. The excitement stems not just from the star power but also from the promise of a technologically advanced and emotionally resonant retelling of a story deeply ingrained in Indian culture.

'Ramayana' holds the potential to be more than just a film; it could be a cultural phenomenon that bridges generations and reintroduces a timeless narrative with a contemporary cinematic sensibility. As production continues and more glimpses are revealed, the anticipation for this epic saga is only set to soar higher, promising an unforgettable experience for moviegoers worldwide.