Director Nitesh Tiwari’s highly anticipated mythological epic, Ramayana: Part 1 (also titled Ramayana: Rise of a Legend), has finally hit the big screens worldwide. Mounted on a reported budget of over ₹2,000 crore for its first installment, the film carries the immense responsibility of bringing Valmiki’s timeless epic to a modern global audience.
Boasting arguably the biggest ensemble cast in recent Indian cinema history—featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol, and Ravi Dubey—the 3-hour and 15-minute spectacle aims to set a new benchmark for theatrical experiences.
Does Ramayana: Part 1 live up to the unprecedented hype? Mostly, yes. While the movie is an absolute triumph in world-building and scale, it does stumble slightly when trying to balance its breathtaking visuals with narrative pacing. Here is our complete review.
The Performances: Yash Steals The Show
While the film boasts a massive ensemble, the ultimate showstopper of Ramayana: Part 1 is undoubtedly Kannada superstar Yash as the demon king, Ravana. From his introductory sequence to his dominating screen presence, Yash brings pure terror, swag, and commanding energy to the role. The first 45 minutes heavily establish his backstory, and his performance is being hailed universally as the biggest highlight of the epic.
On the other side of the spectrum, Ranbir Kapoor delivers a graceful, sincere, and deeply moving performance as Lord Rama. He perfectly captures the calmness and dignity required for the divine avatar, anchoring the film’s emotional core without relying on over-the-top dramatics. Sai Pallavi brings immense warmth and soul as Mata Sita, though audiences might feel she deserved more screen time in this specific installment.
Ravi Dubey is a massive surprise package as Lakshmana, perfectly balancing his devotion, anger, and brotherly chemistry with Ranbir. Meanwhile, Arun Govil (King Dasharatha), Lara Dutta (Queen Kaikeyi), and Rakul Preet Singh (Shurpanakha) deliver convincing supporting acts that elevate the kingdom politics in Ayodhya.
The Visuals and Scale: A Theatrical Spectacle
Technically, Ramayana: Part 1 is unlike anything Indian cinema has ever attempted. The visual effects, spearheaded by DNEG, are breathtaking for the most part. The world-building—from the vibrant, opulent landscapes of Ayodhya to the imposing darkness of Lanka—is rich in detail and demands to be experienced on the largest IMAX screen possible.
The action choreography is world-class, matching the standards of global Hollywood epics. The final 30 minutes of the film feature mind-blowing set pieces, with the aerial battle between Ravana and Jatayu serving as one of the most breathtaking sequences in the history of Indian cinema.
The Flaws: Pacing and Screenplay Jumps
Where the film occasionally falters is in its editing and screenplay execution. With so much ground to cover in the epic’s early chapters, the narrative often feels like it’s jumping rapidly from one major event to the next. Nitesh Tiwari relies heavily on the audience’s pre-existing emotional attachment to the Ramayana, meaning those unfamiliar with the text might find it difficult to connect with the characters’ humanity beneath their divine personas.
Additionally, the massive 3-hour and 15-minute runtime feels slightly stretched during the dramatic conversations, and the film could have benefited from tighter editing. While the background score elevates the high-stakes action sequences, the original songs are unfortunately forgettable and lack the emotional resonance needed to stay with you after leaving the theater.
The Final Verdict
Ramayana: Part 1 is an ambitious, highly enjoyable, and spectacular cinematic achievement that easily erases the bitter memories of previous modern mythological adaptations. While the rushed screenplay prevents it from becoming an instant flawless classic, its sheer scale, Ranbir Kapoor’s grace, and Yash’s dominating performance make it a mandatory big-screen experience.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Ramayana Part 1 worth watching?
Yes, Ramayana: Part 1 is highly recommended for its breathtaking visual effects, world-class action sequences, and stellar performances, particularly from Ranbir Kapoor and Yash. It is best experienced on an IMAX 3D screen.
Who played Ravana in Ramayana 2026?
Kannada superstar Yash plays the role of the demon king Ravana, delivering what critics and audiences are calling the absolute standout performance of the film.
What is the runtime of Ramayana Part 1?
The film has a total theatrical runtime of 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Does Sunny Deol appear in Ramayana Part 1?
Yes, Sunny Deol plays the pivotal role of Lord Hanuman. The ensemble cast also includes Sai Pallavi as Sita and Ravi Dubey as Lakshmana.
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