Ramayana: Part I Early Screening Sparks Buzz Ahead of Diwali Release
A rough cut of Ramayana: Part I was screened for a select audience at the Cinemark Playa Vista theatre in Los Angeles on Monday, giving an early preview of one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious mythological projects. According to entertainment reports including The Week, the audience, which included viewers aged between 18 and 60, responded positively to the film’s scale, visual effects, and storytelling.
The version screened was not final and was presented as a test cut, with feedback expected to shape further edits before its scheduled Diwali release in November.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the epic adaptation is being produced by Namit Malhotra and developed as a two-part cinematic franchise. Reports suggest the project carries an estimated investment of around ₹4,000 crore, placing it among the most expensive Indian film productions ever attempted.
Malhotra previously spoke about the film’s scale on a podcast, noting that the vision required significant commitment and that the first instalment is nearing completion without external borrowing. The producer emphasised that the focus remains on delivering quality rather than tracking daily budget figures.
The film features a high-profile cast with Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, Ravi Dubey as Laxman, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, and Yash as Ravan. Industry observers see the project as a major attempt to position Indian mythological storytelling on a global cinematic scale, particularly through advanced VFX and international production collaboration.
Early audience reactions from the Los Angeles screening have strengthened fan expectations, with social media discussions highlighting the film’s visual ambition and casting choices.
The franchise’s second instalment is planned for Diwali next year, while an official character launch event is scheduled in Mumbai on Ram Navami in April. With production continuing and post-production underway, the coming months are expected to reveal teasers, first looks, and promotional campaigns leading into the festive release window.