Ramayana film starring Ranbir Kapoor faces pre‑release screening demand

Indian filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari is preparing a two‑part epic adaptation of the Ramayana, scheduled for a Diwali 2026 theatrical release (Part 1) and a follow‑up in 2027 (Part 2). The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana, with a reported budget of about $500 million and visual‑effects work by DNEG. The official trailer, released at San Diego Comic‑Con, has drawn praise for its scale and VFX, while some commentators have questioned the casting of Kapoor in the lead role.

The Hindu cultural group Shri Ramlila Mahasangh has written to director Nitesh Tiwari and the production company requesting a private pre‑release screening, citing the 2023 controversy over the film Adipurush. The group warns that, without such a preview, it may organise protests outside cinemas across India. The request reflects broader public interest, with reactions ranging from excitement over the high‑budget production to concerns about religious sensitivities.

The film also features a supporting cast that includes Sunny Deol, Ravie Dubey, Kajal Aggarwal and Rakul Preet Singh, and music by Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman. Production partners include Prime Focus Studios and Monster Mind Creations, and the project is being marketed for international release in multiple languages and premium formats such as IMAX.