The casting of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming two-part film ‘Ramayana’ has come under fresh scrutiny after Shiv Sagar, grandson of the late filmmaker Ramanand Sagar, said he personally finds it difficult to accept the actor in the role.

Shiv Sagar, who is also a producer-director, said Ranbir’s previous screen image—particularly his role in Animal—creates what he described as “baggage” for a character as culturally and spiritually significant as Lord Ram. He said a relatively new face would, in his view, have been a better choice. 

Shiv Sagar prefers a fresh face for Ram

Speaking to ANI, Shiv Sagar said he liked most of the film’s casting but disagreed with the choice of Ranbir Kapoor for Lord Ram.

He explained that when he thinks of Ram, he finds it difficult to separate Ranbir from the image created by his earlier roles. According to Shiv, a fresh actor without a strong association with previous characters could have allowed audiences to approach the role differently.

His comments were specifically about his personal perception of the casting, rather than a statement about Ranbir Kapoor’s acting ability. 

‘Animal’ image cited as the main concern

Shiv Sagar’s objection centres on Ranbir’s portrayal of Ranvijay Singh Balbir in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal, a character that was markedly different from the traditional image associated with Lord Ram.

He argued that actors portraying revered mythological figures can carry the weight of their earlier screen identities into such roles. Shiv said this is why his family has generally preferred new faces for characters in their television productions.

The debate is particularly sensitive because Ramayana is not being treated merely as another fictional adaptation by many Indian viewers. Shiv stressed that Lord Ram is worshipped by millions and occupies a significant place in Indian cultural and religious life.

Yash and Sai Pallavi receive praise

While questioning Ranbir’s casting, Shiv Sagar praised the choices of Yash and Sai Pallavi.

Yash plays Ravana, while Sai Pallavi portrays Sita in Nitesh Tiwari’s adaptation. Shiv said both actors appeared suitable to him because, in his assessment, they did not carry the same kind of previous-role association that he believes Ranbir brings to the project. 

His comments come as the film’s casting continues to attract considerable public discussion ahead of its theatrical release.

Costume choices also questioned

Shiv Sagar also expressed reservations about some of the film’s costumes and other creative decisions.

He said that certain aspects of the casting and costume design could have been handled differently, while emphasising that ultimately the audience would determine whether the filmmakers’ choices worked.

The remarks add another layer to the ongoing discussion around the visual interpretation of the epic, particularly after promotional material and the trailer generated debate over character looks and costumes.

Why the casting debate matters

The casting discussion reflects a larger challenge faced by filmmakers adapting culturally revered stories for contemporary cinema: balancing star power and commercial reach with the expectations audiences attach to familiar religious and cultural figures.

Shiv Sagar acknowledged that casting a major star such as Ranbir could have commercial advantages, including helping the film’s marketing. However, he maintained that his personal preference would still be for a new face in the role of Ram.

Similar concerns about Ranbir’s Animal image have also been raised publicly by veteran actor Mukesh Khanna, who recently argued that the association could affect how children and audiences perceive the character of Ram. 

‘Ramayana’ set for November 2026 release

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part 1 stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. The film is planned as the first instalment of a two-part adaptation.

The makers have announced November 6, 2026 as the global theatrical release date for the first part. 

As the release approaches, the response to the casting, costumes, visual effects and overall interpretation is likely to remain an important part of the film’s public conversation.

Mumbai: The makers of Ramayana have unveiled the film’s English-language trailer, introducing audiences to an advanced AI-powered lip-sync technology that has quickly become the biggest talking point among movie lovers. While the visuals remain largely identical to the previously released Hindi and multilingual trailers, the English version showcases Brahma AI, a technology designed to synchronize actors’ lip movements with dialogues in different languages.

The trailer, released a week after the original Hindi version, has received an overwhelmingly positive response on social media, with viewers calling it a significant leap in cinematic technology and a potential game-changer for global film distribution.

AI Lip-Sync Technology Steals the Spotlight

Unlike traditional dubbed films, where lip movements often fail to match translated dialogues, Ramayana uses Brahma AI, an artificial intelligence system developed by DNEG, to align facial movements with the spoken language.

The technology allows actors to appear as though they are naturally delivering dialogues in English while preserving their original expressions and performances.

According to the makers, the innovation is intended to make multilingual releases feel more authentic for international audiences.

Original Cast Voices in English

One of the film's biggest surprises is that the principal cast reportedly recorded their own English dialogues instead of relying on foreign voice actors.

This means Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, and other leading actors retain their natural voices, helping preserve the emotional depth of their performances while making the film accessible to global audiences.

Fans Praise the Natural Look

Soon after the trailer's release, social media platforms were flooded with positive reactions.

Many viewers admitted they expected a conventional dubbed version but were surprised by how accurately the lip movements matched the English dialogues.

Several users described the AI synchronization as smooth and realistic, while others called it one of the most impressive examples of artificial intelligence being used in filmmaking.

The technology was widely praised for maintaining the actors' original identities instead of making them sound artificially different for international viewers.

Global Release Strategy

The English trailer reflects the makers' ambitious international vision for Ramayana.

By combining large-scale visual storytelling with advanced localization technology, the production team hopes to make the film accessible to audiences across multiple countries without compromising the authenticity of the performances.

Industry experts believe AI-driven dubbing and lip synchronization could become an important tool for future global film releases.

High Expectations Continue

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra, Ramayana remains one of India's most anticipated cinematic projects.

The film features an ensemble cast led by Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, and Sai Pallavi, and has generated significant excitement since the release of its first teaser.

With the English trailer receiving positive feedback for both its visuals and technological innovation, expectations surrounding the film's worldwide release have grown even stronger.

Even before its theatrical release, director Nitesh Tiwari's ambitious mythological epic Ramayana has landed in controversy after the Shri Ramlila Mahasangh demanded a special screening of the film, warning of nationwide protests if any scenes are found to hurt religious sentiments.

The federation has written to the filmmakers and the production house, seeking permission to review the film before it reaches cinemas during the Diwali 2026 festive season. The organisation claims it has received information suggesting that certain scenes may contain portrayals capable of offending devotees of Lord Ram and followers of Sanatan Dharma.

Demand for Pre-Release Screening

Shri Ramlila Mahasangh president Arjun Kumar has urged the makers to organise a special screening for the federation's representatives before the film's worldwide release. According to the letter, the organisation wants to verify that the film presents Lord Ram, other characters from the Ramayana, and Hindu traditions with authenticity and respect.

The federation warned that if its demand is ignored and any objectionable content is found after release, it will organise demonstrations outside cinema halls across Delhi and other states in coordination with Hindu organisations.

Reference to Adipurush Controversy

The federation cited the 2023 film Adipurush as an example of how alleged inaccuracies and controversial depictions triggered widespread public protests.

According to the organisation, the portrayal of Lanka, Ravana and several other characters in Adipurush led to strong opposition from religious groups and Ramleela organisations, eventually affecting the film's public reception and box office performance.

The federation has appealed to the makers of Ramayana to avoid repeating similar mistakes.

No Response from Filmmakers Yet

As of now, director Nitesh Tiwari and the film's production houses have not issued any official statement regarding the federation's demands or the warning of protests.

Star-Studded Cast

Ramayana features an ensemble cast led by Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita. Kannada superstar Yash portrays Ravana, while Sunny Deol plays Lord Hanuman and Ravi Dubey appears as Lakshman.

The film also stars Arun Govil as King Dasharath, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha, along with Vivek Oberoi and Kunal Kapoor in pivotal roles.

Music by Rahman and Hans Zimmer

One of the biggest highlights of the project is its musical collaboration between Academy Award winners A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer, who are jointly composing the background score and soundtrack.

The film is being produced by Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Studios and Yash's Monster Mind Creations, while the visual effects are being handled by Oscar-winning VFX studio DNEG.

India's Costliest Film

Media reports estimate the combined budget of the two-part franchise at nearly ₹4,000 crore, making it one of the most expensive film projects ever mounted in Indian cinema.

The first instalment is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release during Diwali 2026, while the second part is expected to arrive in Diwali 2027.

Released globally during the auspicious Brahma Muhurta on July 30, the trailer quickly became a talking point on social media. Apart from discussions in India, Pakistani YouTubers and digital creators shared detailed reviews, praising the film's visual effects, large-scale production and performances.

Among those reacting to the trailer was Pakistani content creator Mawia Umar Farooqi, popularly known for his entertainment and cricket-related content. Reviewing the trailer on social media, Farooqi said the film's reported massive budget was clearly reflected in its visuals and overall presentation.

He particularly appreciated the Hollywood-standard visual effects and the collaboration with international VFX studios, saying the trailer had genuinely increased his excitement for the film. According to him, the visuals suggested audiences could expect a grand cinematic experience when the film releases.

Farooqi also praised Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal of Lord Ram and Yash's screen presence as Ravana, describing both actors as impactful in the trailer.

Pakistani YouTuber and film critic Hasnat Khan also reviewed the trailer, calling it one of the most visually impressive Indian film previews in recent years. He said the trailer successfully lived up to the enormous anticipation surrounding the project.

According to Hasnat, every frame appeared meticulously designed, with high-quality CGI, lighting, animation and action sequences. He noted that he did not notice any weak or unfinished visual effects, adding that the production quality matched international standards.

The reviewer also highlighted Yash's performance, saying the actor's commanding screen presence and action sequences immediately stood out. He described the introduction of Ravana as one of the trailer's strongest moments.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is being developed as a two-part cinematic adaptation of the Indian epic. The first instalment is scheduled to release during Diwali 2026, while the second part is planned for Diwali 2027.

The film features an ensemble cast led by Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita and Kannada superstar Yash as Ravana. Sunny Deol portrays Lord Hanuman, while Ravi Dubey plays Lakshman. Veteran actor Arun Govil, who famously portrayed Lord Ram in Ramanand Sagar's television adaptation, appears in the film as King Dasharatha.

The supporting cast also includes Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha, Vivek Oberoi and Kunal Kapoor in key roles.

Another major attraction of the project is its music. Academy Award-winning composers A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer have collaborated for the first time to create the film's background score and soundtrack, making the project one of the most ambitious musical collaborations in Indian cinema.

Produced by Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Studios, DNEG and Yash's Monster Mind Creations, Ramayana is reportedly being made on a combined budget of nearly ₹4,000 crore, making it one of the costliest film projects ever undertaken in India. The visual effects are being handled by Oscar-winning VFX company DNEG, with the film also planned for an IMAX release.

The positive response from Pakistani reviewers reflects the growing cross-border interest in large-scale Indian cinematic productions, particularly those backed by cutting-edge technology and internationally recognised filmmaking talent.

Reacting to the recently released trailer on social media, Bharadwaj described Ramayana as a landmark cinematic project and said it had the potential to earn international recognition. He applauded the film's visual scale, production design, cinematography and music, calling it one of the most ambitious Indian productions in recent years.

Sharing the trailer on Instagram, Bharadwaj congratulated producer Namit Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari, saying the filmmaker had delivered a project worthy of global appreciation. He also thanked Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer for collaborating with Indian cinema alongside A.R. Rahman, who has jointly composed the film's score.

The veteran actor reserved special praise for the film's visual effects, noting that the combination of VFX and AI-assisted filmmaking had created an impressive mythological world. According to him, the project could emerge as a strong contender for several international honours, including recognition for production design and cinematography.

Alongside his appreciation, Bharadwaj addressed Ranbir Kapoor directly in his post, saying the actor had now entered a phase where his responsibilities extended beyond acting alone.

He wrote that he had always admired Ranbir as a performer but believed portraying Lord Ram placed an added cultural responsibility on him. Bharadwaj urged the actor to choose films that celebrate India's heritage, traditions and values rather than projects similar to Animal. He also appealed to Ranbir to maintain dignity in his public conduct, adding that Indian cinema offers countless meaningful stories capable of showcasing his acting ability.

Bharadwaj also welcomed Kannada superstar Yash to what he described as the global stage, praising his portrayal of Ravana in the trailer. He said Ranbir Kapoor and Yash represented two of the strongest actors of the current generation and expressed confidence that both would leave a lasting impression through the film.

The actor further shared his hopes regarding Sai Pallavi's portrayal of Sita, saying he wished audiences would wholeheartedly accept her interpretation of the revered character. He also expressed a desire to hear verses from Goswami Tulsidas' Ramcharitmanas, accompanied by traditional Indian instruments such as the mridangam and manjira, describing those sounds as deeply embedded in India's cultural consciousness.

Concluding his remarks, Bharadwaj said he intended to watch Ramayana at least five times as a mark of respect for the effort invested by the filmmakers in bringing the epic to the big screen.

The trailer for Ramayana was released globally during the auspicious Brahma Muhurta at 4:15 a.m. IST. It debuted simultaneously across multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam.

The trailer introduces Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman. Veteran actor Arun Govil, who portrayed Lord Ram in Ramanand Sagar's legendary television adaptation, appears as King Dasharatha. Lara Dutta plays Kaikeyi, while Rakul Preet Singh portrays Shurpanakha.

Music for the film has been composed jointly by Oscar winners A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer. Produced by Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Studios in association with Yash's Monster Mind Creations, the project is being released in two parts. The first instalment is scheduled to arrive in cinemas during Diwali 2026, while the second part is planned for Diwali 2027.

With an estimated budget of around ₹4,000 crore and visual effects handled by Oscar-winning studio DNEG, Ramayana is widely regarded as one of the biggest and most expensive productions in the history of Indian cinema.

Producer Namit Malhotra had earlier announced that the trailer would debut during Brahma Muhurat, a time regarded in Hindu tradition as highly auspicious for new beginnings. The unique release strategy generated significant curiosity among fans, with social media platforms witnessing widespread discussions even before the trailer went live.

The nearly four-minute trailer introduces the principal characters from the epic. Ranbir Kapoor appears as Lord Ram with a restrained and composed screen presence, while Sai Pallavi portrays Goddess Sita in a look that reflects simplicity and grace. Ravi Dubey makes his first appearance as Lakshman, presenting the younger brother's unwavering devotion and courage.

Among all the characters, Yash’s portrayal of Ravana has emerged as the biggest talking point. His commanding screen presence, elaborate costume design and powerful dialogue delivery have received widespread attention online. The trailer also offers glimpses of Arun Govil as King Dasharatha, connecting audiences to his legacy after portraying Lord Ram in the iconic 1987 television adaptation.

The visuals highlight the film’s large-scale production values, featuring expansive kingdoms, battle sequences and extensive visual effects designed to recreate the world of the ancient epic. The background score, composed jointly by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, adds to the trailer’s dramatic tone and has also attracted praise from viewers.

Soon after its release, reactions flooded social media. Many users described the trailer as visually grand and praised the casting, particularly Yash's Ravana and Sai Pallavi's portrayal of Sita. Several viewers also appreciated the decision to launch the trailer during Brahma Muhurat, calling it a thoughtful tribute to the cultural significance of the story.

At the same time, the trailer also received mixed responses from some viewers. A section of the audience questioned certain visual effects and dialogue delivery, while others felt the preview focused more on spectacle than emotional depth. Despite the differing opinions, the trailer quickly became one of the most discussed entertainment releases of the day, with hashtags related to the film trending across social media platforms.

Ramayana brings together one of the biggest ensemble casts in recent Indian cinema. Alongside Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash, the film also features Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, Arun Govil as Dasharatha, Lara Dutta, Rakul Preet Singh, Vivek Oberoi and Kunal Kapoor in key roles.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the film is being produced by Namit Malhotra under Prime Focus Studios in association with Monster Mind Creations. Visual effects are being handled by the Oscar-winning VFX studio DNEG, with the project reportedly mounted on one of the largest budgets in Indian film history.

The mythological saga will be released in two parts. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled to arrive in cinemas during Diwali 2026, while Part 2 is planned for Diwali 2027, setting up a two-year cinematic adaptation of the revered epic.

Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana was originally scheduled to unveil its first official trailer at San Diego Comic-Con on July 24, positioning it as one of the biggest Indian film presentations at the global pop-culture event. Producer Namit Malhotra announced a postponement just before the scheduled launch, pushing the reveal to a later, unconfirmed date. Almost immediately after that announcement, clips began circulating on YouTube and X carrying titles like "Official Trailer Leaked" and "Ramayana SDCC Trailer."

None of it is real. Fact-checks by multiple outlets have confirmed the viral clips are fan-made edits, built using AI-generated visuals stitched together with footage lifted from other films and old concept videos. The visuals in these clips don't match anything the production has officially released, and none of the videos have been shared or acknowledged by the film's makers or its production banners.

This isn't the first time footage claiming to be from Ramayana has gone viral under murky circumstances. Roughly a week earlier, a separate video purporting to show leaked footage from an actual trailer screening event circulated online, appearing to show glimpses of Yash as Ravana, Arun Govil as King Dashratha and Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi. That leak was reportedly tied to an actual screening event where the trailer was played for a live audience before its official release; a source told Mid-day that Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari had activated anti-piracy partners to curb its spread, with takedown efforts underway. Unlike this week's clips, that footage was never conclusively confirmed as either authentic or fabricated by the makers.

Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, Arun Govil as King Dashratha and Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi. Produced by Prime Focus Studios alongside DNEG and Monster Mind Creations, with music from Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, the film is being released as a two-part epic, with Part 1 arriving in cinemas on Diwali 2026 and Part 2 following on Diwali 2027, both shot for IMAX.

With anticipation for the film running unusually high and the makers yet to confirm a revised trailer date, viewers should expect more of these AI-generated fakes to keep surfacing in the gap — official confirmation will only come directly from Malhotra, Tiwari or the studio's verified channels.

The event marked the official beginning of the promotional campaign for Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious mythological epic, which features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana and Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman. Along with the cast, several distinguished guests, including poet Kumar Vishwas, were present during the ceremony.

As Ranbir reached the stage, he first bowed before Sunny Deol and touched his feet as a mark of respect. He also greeted Kumar Vishwas in a similar manner. The heartfelt moment received loud applause inside the venue and soon went viral on social media, where fans praised the actor for displaying humility despite being one of Bollywood’s biggest stars.

The ceremony was organised to unveil the next phase of Ramayana's promotional journey ahead of the worldwide trailer launch scheduled for July 24. During the event, the makers showcased exclusive footage from the film and reiterated their vision of presenting the Indian epic on a global scale.

Speaking at the event, Ranbir Kapoor paid tribute to veteran actor Arun Govil, whose portrayal of Lord Ram in Ramanand Sagar’s television adaptation remains iconic. Ranbir said he had grown up carrying the blessings of Shri Ram through Govil’s performance, acknowledging the legacy that inspired generations of audiences.

Sunny Deol, who plays Lord Hanuman in the film, described the role as one carrying immense responsibility. He admitted that portraying one of the most revered characters in Indian mythology has not been easy and said he still has a long journey ahead in completing the film. The actor sought the audience’s blessings and promised to give his best to the role.

Actor Yash, who also serves as a producer on the project, called Ramayana "India’s dream project" and said the film is driven by a shared vision rather than individual stardom. He praised Ranbir Kapoor’s dedication to the role of Lord Ram and described Sai Pallavi as a flawless performer whose commitment has strengthened the project.

The film is among the most ambitious projects in Indian cinema, with large-scale production, extensive visual effects and an ensemble cast. The first instalment is scheduled for a theatrical release during Diwali 2026, while the second chapter is expected to arrive in 2027.

While the event celebrated the scale and vision of the upcoming film, it was Ranbir Kapoor’s simple gesture towards Sunny Deol that resonated most with audiences. The moment reinforced the tradition of respecting senior artists in the film industry and became one of the defining images from the Ramayana launch.

From entering films as a child artist to becoming one of the most successful actresses of the 1970s and later stepping away from the spotlight for family, Neetu Kapoor's life story remains closely intertwined with the evolution of Bollywood itself.

Born as Harmeet Kaur in Delhi on July 8, 1958, Neetu faced challenges at an early age. Following the death of her father, financial difficulties forced the family to look for opportunities in the film industry. Her mother, Rajee Kaur, reportedly struggled to find acting work herself before deciding to introduce her young daughter to films.

Neetu made her screen debut as a child artist under the name "Baby Sonia" and appeared in films such as Suraj, Do Kaliyan, Das Lakh and Waris. Industry insiders of that era often praised her natural screen presence and confidence in front of the camera despite her young age.

Her transition to lead roles came in the early 1970s. The film Rickshawala helped establish her as a heroine, and she soon became one of the busiest actresses in the industry. Over the next few years, she featured in several commercially successful films, including Deewaar, Khel Khel Mein, Rafu Chakkar, Kabhi Kabhie, Amar Akbar Anthony, Dharam Veer and Kasme Vaade.

While her professional success was growing rapidly, another chapter of her life was taking shape on film sets. Neetu Kapoor's association with late actor Rishi Kapoor began during the filming of Zehreela Insaan in 1974. What started as friendship gradually evolved into one of Bollywood's most talked-about relationships.

According to accounts shared by Neetu Kapoor in past interviews, her family initially opposed the relationship. Media reports over the years have cited her recalling that her mother was unhappy after learning about her romance with Rishi Kapoor and even slapped her over the matter. However, with time, both families accepted the relationship.

The couple married on January 22, 1980, in a high-profile ceremony attended by several leading film personalities. Their wedding remains one of the most discussed celebrity weddings in Hindi cinema. Interestingly, both Neetu and Rishi Kapoor later revealed that the exhausting ceremonies and massive crowds left them physically drained, leading to moments when they reportedly fainted during the celebrations.

Marriage brought significant changes to Neetu Kapoor's life. At a time when she was among Bollywood's top actresses, she gradually moved away from films to focus on family life. Raising children Ranbir Kapoor and Riddhima Kapoor Sahni became her priority, and she largely stayed away from the industry for years.

Rishi Kapoor, in his autobiography Khullam Khulla, had written that he felt marriage may have affected his image as a romantic hero during that period. While his career later evolved successfully into character-driven roles, Neetu's decision to step back from acting was seen as one of the biggest sacrifices made by a leading actress at the peak of her popularity.

After a long absence from mainstream cinema, Neetu Kapoor returned to films more than two decades later. Her performances in projects such as Do Dooni Chaar and later JugJugg Jeeyo received appreciation from audiences and critics alike, proving that her screen appeal remained intact.

The loss of Rishi Kapoor in April 2020 marked another emotional turning point. Since then, Neetu Kapoor has remained active professionally, appearing on television and returning to acting while also maintaining a strong public presence.

Even at 68, Neetu Kapoor continues to command admiration across generations. Her journey—from a child artist navigating financial hardship to a celebrated actress, devoted mother and resilient public figure—remains one of Bollywood's most enduring stories.

Marvel fans hoping to watch Spider-Man: Brand New Day on the big IMAX screen will need to look elsewhere when the Tom Holland and Zendaya-starrer opens in Indian theatres next month. Sony Pictures has confirmed that the film will skip an IMAX release in the country altogether.

The reason traces back to a scheduling clash with Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey, which arrives in cinemas just two weeks before Spider-Man: Brand New Day.

Nolan's film was shot entirely on IMAX cameras, and as per the studio's announcement, it has locked in an exclusive IMAX run from July 17 to August 14 across several markets, including India. Spider-Man: Brand New Day, scheduled for release on July 31, falls squarely within that window, leaving it without access to IMAX screens for its opening run.

Sony Pictures addressed the situation directly, stating that while there will be no IMAX release for the Marvel film in India, it will instead be available across premium large-format, or PLF, screens, which the studio is positioning as an equally immersive big-screen option for audiences.

That explanation has not entirely satisfied fans. Several took to social media to express disappointment, with some pointing out that they had planned trips to other cities specifically to catch the film in IMAX, and others questioning why a Spider-Man release would be denied even a limited number of IMAX screenings given the franchise's pull in India. The frustration has been visible across studio social handles since the news broke.

Adding an unusual twist to the situation is the overlap in casting. Tom Holland and Zendaya, who lead Spider-Man: Brand New Day, also feature in The Odyssey, meaning the two actors are effectively competing against their own film for IMAX screen space this summer.

While one fanbase is disappointed, anticipation for The Odyssey shows no signs of slowing down. Advance bookings for its IMAX 70mm screenings reportedly sold out within hours of going live, reflecting the scale of demand Nolan's films tend to generate, particularly in the large-format segment.

The clash also highlights just how packed IMAX's 2026 release calendar already is. The year opened with Mercy on January 23, followed by The Bride! and Project Hail Mary in March, then The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and Michael in April. The summer stretch alone features Mortal Kombat II, The Mandalorian and Grogu, Toy Story 5, Supergirl, Minions 3 and Moana, before The Odyssey takes over IMAX screens from mid-July. Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana: Part 1 is also lined up for an IMAX run later in the year, adding to an unusually competitive slate for premium-format screen time.

For now, Spider-Man: Brand New Day will lean on its PLF release to draw audiences when it opens on July 31, even as the IMAX question continues to be a talking point among fans in the lead-up to the film's debut.

Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor has purchased a premium land parcel worth ₹3.31 crore in Ayodhya’s high-profile real estate development project ‘The Saryu’. The project is developed by The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL), a well-known name in India’s luxury plotted development segment.

According to reports from news agency ANI and official company statements, the deal involves a land parcel measuring approximately 2,134 square feet. The investment places Ranbir Kapoor among a growing list of high-profile personalities investing in Ayodhya’s rapidly expanding real estate market.

‘The Saryu’ is a premium 75-acre plotted development located along the banks of the sacred Saryu River. The project is designed as a luxury lifestyle destination and includes modern infrastructure, landscaped green zones, and high-end amenities. It features a grand clubhouse, more than 35 lifestyle facilities, and plans for a luxury vegetarian hotel developed in partnership with The Leela Hotels group on a five-acre area. Ranbir Kapoor’s investment follows a similar move by veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan, who also purchased land in the same project earlier. With this, Ranbir becomes the second major Bollywood actor to invest in the development, further increasing its visibility among celebrity investors.

In a statement shared by the developer, Ranbir Kapoor expressed a deep emotional connection with Ayodhya. He said that it feels as though the city has “chosen him” and described Ayodhya as an integral part of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. He added that his investment in ‘The Saryu’ would become part of his family’s legacy and a long-term association with the historic city. The project developer, The House of Abhinandan Lodha, was founded in 2020 by entrepreneur Abhinandan Lodha. The company has positioned itself as a leader in the premium plotted development space, focusing on emerging cultural and tourism-driven destinations across India. According to Lodha, Ayodhya is undergoing a major phase of cultural and economic transformation, driven by infrastructure development, tourism growth, and increasing global attention.

He further stated that investments from prominent personalities like Ranbir Kapoor reflect a broader trend where buyers see Ayodhya not just as a spiritual destination but also as a strong long-term investment opportunity. The rising demand for real estate in the region is being fueled by improved connectivity, large-scale infrastructure projects, and the city’s growing global prominence following the development of the Ram Mandir. Interestingly, Ranbir Kapoor’s investment comes at a time when he is preparing for one of the most ambitious projects of his acting career. He is currently playing the role of Lord Ram in director Nitesh Tiwari’s epic film ‘Ramayana’. The timing of his investment has drawn attention, as both his professional role and personal investment connect him closely with Ayodhya and its cultural significance.

The film ‘Ramayana’ is among the most expensive projects ever made in Indian cinema, with an estimated budget of around ₹4,000 crore. It is being produced in two parts and is expected to be a global-scale visual spectacle. The first part is scheduled for release during Diwali 2026, while the second part is expected in Diwali 2027. The cast of the film includes several prominent actors. Ranbir Kapoor will portray Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi will play Sita, Yash will appear as Ravana, Sunny Deol will take on the role of Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey will be seen as Lakshman. Veteran actor Arun Govil, who famously played Lord Ram in the 1987 television series ‘Ramayan’, will appear in the role of King Dasharatha, adding a layer of legacy casting to the project.

The film is being directed by Nitesh Tiwari, known for delivering one of India’s highest-grossing films, ‘Dangal’. The music is being composed by Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman along with Hollywood music legend Hans Zimmer, making it a global collaboration in terms of sound and score design. The production is being handled by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios, DNEG, and Monster Mind Creations. The film will also be released in IMAX format and is expected to set new benchmarks in visual effects and storytelling. The VFX work is being handled by Oscar-winning studio DNEG, known for its work on major Hollywood blockbusters.

Ranbir Kapoor’s investment and his role in ‘Ramayana’ together highlight a growing trend where Indian cinema and real estate narratives are increasingly intersecting with cultural and religious tourism hubs like Ayodhya. The city, which has long been a significant spiritual destination, is now rapidly emerging as a major real estate and investment hotspot. As Ayodhya continues its transformation, investments from celebrities and major business groups are expected to rise further. For Ranbir Kapoor, this purchase is not only a financial decision but also a symbolic association with a city that holds deep cultural importance in India’s history and mythology.

With his portrayal of Lord Ram and his investment in Ayodhya’s development project, Ranbir Kapoor’s connection to the city now extends from reel life to real life, making it one of the most talked-about celebrity investment stories of the year.

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Ramayana's ₹4,000 Crore Gamble: Can It Surpass Box Office Records?

Nitesh Tiwari's ambitious two-part epic starring Ranbir Kapoor tests the limits of Indian cinema's financial viability as production costs soar to unprecedented levels.

The Indian film industry stands at the cusp of its most audacious financial experiment yet. Director Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana, featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, has emerged as the costliest project in Bollywood history with a reported combined budget exceeding ₹4,000 crore for its two parts. Producer Namit Malhotra confirmed the eye-popping figure during a podcast discussion, placing the mythological saga in rarefied territory even by global standards.

Industry observers are now closely watching whether the film's massive scale can translate into box office success capable of recovering such staggering costs. For perspective, Aamir Khan's Dangal—currently among the highest-grossing Hindi films—earned over ₹2,000 crore worldwide in its lifetime run. Questions linger if Ramayana can clear this high bar, especially with Part 1 slated for a Diwali 2026 release and Part 2 following in 2027.

Massive Budget Breakdown

The ₹4,000 crore outlay covers both instalments and includes heavy investment in world-class VFX, international talent, and an expansive star cast. Sources close to the production indicated that a significant chunk goes towards creating immersive visuals and grand sets to bring the ancient epic alive for modern audiences, both in India and overseas.

Producer Malhotra, who heads Prime Focus Studios, described the project as a lifetime ambition during his conversation on The Prakhar Gupta Xperience. He noted that initial reactions to the budget idea labelled it overly ambitious, yet the team pushed forward with self-funding elements to realise the vision.

Star Salaries Under Spotlight

A notable portion of the budget has gone towards remunerating the lead cast for the two-part commitment. Reports suggest Ranbir Kapoor is set to earn around ₹150 crore total for portraying Lord Ram, with ₹75 crore per part. Yash, playing Ravana and also serving as a co-producer, is reportedly taking home ₹100 crore. Sunny Deol steps into the role of Hanuman with a fee of about ₹40 crore, while Sai Pallavi, as Sita, commands roughly ₹12 crore.

These figures reflect the premium placed on star power alongside technical excellence in what makers hope will be a landmark cinematic retelling.

Comparison With Global And Domestic Blockbusters

At roughly $500 million, the Ramayana budget dwarfs most Indian productions and rivals or exceeds several Hollywood heavyweights when adjusted for context. Films like Avatar: The Way of Water and Avengers: Endgame operated in the $350-400 million range during their respective eras. In India, previous high-budget efforts such as Kalki 2898 AD or Adipurush stayed well below this mark, often in the ₹500-700 crore territory for single films.

The two-part structure allows for deeper storytelling but also doubles the financial exposure. Makers are banking on advanced VFX capabilities from Prime Focus and music contributions reportedly involving talents like A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer to elevate the project.

Cultural Resonance As Key Factor

The timeless appeal of the Ramayana story offers a strong foundation. As a narrative familiar to billions across India and the global Indian diaspora, the film aims to resonate emotionally while delivering spectacle. Director Tiwari, known for sensitive hits like Dangal, brings a track record of blending human drama with larger themes.

Early glimpses released around Hanuman Jayanti generated significant buzz, with audiences praising the visual treatment of Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal. Yet, the high stakes mean any shortfall in theatrical performance, satellite rights, or international markets could pose recovery challenges.

Risks And Potential Rewards

Film trade experts point out that even successful pan-India releases rarely cross ₹1,000-1,500 crore net in India alone in current market conditions. Overseas earnings, digital rights, and ancillary revenue streams become critical for such a venture. The gamble hinges on delivering a product that transcends language barriers and appeals to family audiences worldwide.

Public interest remains high, with the project already sparking debates on social media about budget justification versus artistic ambition. Government updates on film policy or incentives for large-scale productions could indirectly influence similar future projects in the sector.

What Lies Ahead For Indian Cinema

As Ramayana Part 1 approaches its release window, the industry watches keenly. A strong opening and sustained run could validate big-budget mythological storytelling and open doors for more ambitious Indian content on the global stage. Conversely, any hesitation at the ticket counters might prompt caution among producers for mega projects.

For now, the focus stays on execution. With promotions expected to intensify in coming months, the film promises to dominate conversations as one of the most anticipated releases in recent memory. Whether it rewrites box office history or serves as a cautionary tale on scale, Ramayana has already redefined expectations for what Indian cinema can attempt.