Ramayana Review: Ranbir Kapoor and Yash Lead Nitesh Tiwari's Breathtaking Mythological Spectacle
Nitesh Tiwari brings the timeless epic to the big screen with sweeping visuals, powerhouse performances, and Hans Zimmer's stirring score.
Published 5 November 2026
Reimagining an Enduring Epic
Retelling a story deeply embedded in cultural memory is a mammoth undertaking, but director Nitesh Tiwari steps up to the challenge with his latest cinematic venture. Ramayana: Rise of a Legend attempts to bring India's most cherished tale to life on a scale larger than traditional cinema. Armed with a celebrated ensemble cast and extraordinary production values, the film strives to make audiences feel the weight and magic of the epic all over again.
While the narrative stays true to the core spirit of the classic saga, it is carefully adapted for modern viewers. The movie balances grand cinematic brilliance with heartfelt nostalgia, reminding audiences of the emotional resonance of watching the tale unfold surrounded by family.
The Journey of Rama and the Burden of Duty
The story follows Lord Rama, the human avatar of Lord Vishnu born to King Dashrath and Queen Kaushalya in Ayodhya. Rather than focusing solely on his martial prowess, the narrative highlights his unwavering commitment to righteousness, deep respect for others, and strong personal connections. After winning the hand of Sita, the daughter of King Janak, in a swayamvar, Rama prepares for his coronation.
Fate intervenes when his stepmother Kaikeyi invokes two promises from Dashrath, demanding a 14-year exile for Rama. Bound by duty and respect for his father's word, Rama accepts without protest, accompanied into the forest by Sita and his loyal brother Lakshman. Their journey takes a perilous turn when the demon king Ravana abducts Sita, setting the stage for a massive conflict.
Visual Grandeur and Production Scale
A story of this magnitude requires a visual language to match its grand ambitions, and the film delivers with breathtaking action sequences and sweeping landscapes. The much-discussed Rs 2,000 crore budget is visible in every corner of the production, from elaborate architecture and mythical creatures to distinct celestial realms. The film manages to keep several visual surprises hidden from the promotional trailers, rewarding theatergoers with vast, undiscovered worlds.
However, the movie is not without flaws. The use of artificial intelligence-generated imagery is occasionally distracting, with certain creatures like Khar-Dushan and Kumbhkaran appearing too caricature-like. These brief visual hiccups sometimes disrupt the otherwise immersive and authentic universe constructed by the filmmakers.
Powerful Performances and Character Agency
Ranbir Kapoor gradually settles into the stillness and restraint required to portray Lord Rama, shedding familiar mannerisms to deliver a grounded and convincing performance. Opposite him, Sai Pallavi brings immense strength and dignity to the role of Sita. Eschewing the traditional damsel-in-distress trope, Tiwari portrays Sita as a healer, warrior, and active participant who fights alongside Rama and retains her agency throughout the ordeal.
Ravie Dubey stands out as Lakshman, conveying deep emotional attachment and sharp dialogue delivery with remarkable clarity. Meanwhile, Yash commands the screen as Ravana, effortlessly balancing anger, pride, and an undeniable charm that makes him the ultimate lord of the three worlds.
The Emotional Core and Musical Brilliance
Beyond the grand battles and divine weaponry, the film finds its true heart in quiet human moments. The poignant separation between Rama and Dashrath, the helplessness of a grieving father, and the emotional fallout of the exile bring a heavy and affecting weight to the narrative.
Hans Zimmer's background score serves as one of the project's greatest creative assets. The music introduces a spiritual dimension and grand emotional sweep, elevating ordinary cinematic battles into divine spectacles.
News Overview
Nitesh Tiwari has released the worldwide cinematic adaptation Ramayana: Rise of a Legend, starring Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as Ravana. The film blends massive visual scale and Hans Zimmer's score with emotional storytelling, despite some critiques regarding artificial imagery.
Key facts
- Ramayana: Rise of a Legend released worldwide on November 5, 2026.
- The film is directed by Nitesh Tiwari.
- Ranbir Kapoor stars as Lord Rama.
- Sai Pallavi stars as Goddess Sita.
- Yash stars as the demon king Ravana.
- Ravie Dubey plays the role of Lakshman.