The grand international trailer launch of Ramayana: Rise of a Legend kicked off in Bengaluru on a high note, with the makers showing a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of the film. The footage gave the packed hall a clear view of the scale, world-building, and hard work driving director Nitesh Tiwari’s vision. Amid chants of Jai Shree Ram and loud cheers for co-star Yash, Ranbir Kapoor took the stage, breaking the ice with a bit of Kannada that drew huge applause from the crowd.
Addressing the gathering, Ranbir Kapoor greeted everyone warmly. "Namaskara Bengaluru. Nimma priti matu ashirvadike tumba dhanyavadagalu" (Thank you so much for your love, kind words, and blessings).
Acknowledging the local love for Karnataka's own 'Rocking Star' Yash, who plays King Ravana in the film and also serves as its producer along with Namit Malhotra, Ranbir Kapoor quipped with a smile: "Iss baar itna hi seekh ke aaya hoon, agli baar Yash Boss se thoda zyada seekh ke aaunga!" (This is all I managed to learn this time; next time, I’ll learn a little more from Yash Boss!)
Talking about the footage shown by the makers and discussing the epic alongside Nitesh Tiwari, Ranbir Kapoor spoke about Indian mythology and how much he learned while working on the film. For Ranbir, getting into this world was not just another job, but a deep lesson in history, values, and personal discipline.
"Growing up, we all hear parts of the Ramayana from our grandparents and parents, but diving into the depth of this story for the film was an eye-opener," Ranbir Kapoor mentioned. "The amount I have learned throughout this process, about our roots, our values, and the wisdom in every chapter, has changed me as a person. It made me realise how relevant and grounding these teachings are, even today."
When the conversation turned to playing Lord Rama on screen, the actor spoke with deep respect, sharing the mindset needed to take on such a revered figure.
"When Nitesh Tiwari sir and Namit Malhotra first approached me, there was excitement, but more than that, there was a quiet sense of fear and deep responsibility," Ranbir Kapoor shared. "Lord Rama is not just a character; he lives in the daily prayers and hearts of millions. You cannot just act this part; you have to surrender to his dignity, calm nature, and empathy."
He spoke about the physical and mental preparation the role needed, from archery training to finding Rama’s quiet strength:
"Rama's strength lies in his restraint. Every look, every walk, and every word had to carry weight without showing anger. It needed shutting out the noise and finding complete calm within."
Ranbir Kapoor also spoke warmly about his co-stars, including Yash and Sai Pallavi, who plays Sita, praising the bond shared by actors from across different film industries.
"Working alongside Sai Pallavi has been a wonderful experience. Her natural grace, honesty, and simplicity bring a quiet dignity to Sita," he noted. "And sharing the screen with Yash has been an electrifying experience. To see someone of his stature bring such power and presence to Ravana lifts the entire conflict of the story."
He had warm words for Ravi Dubey, who plays Lakshman, adding that the bond they built on set felt just like the deep brotherhood seen in the epic.
Closing his talk, Ranbir Kapoor spoke about the bigger goal behind Ramayana, which is being made as a two-part saga and released globally by Sony Pictures alongside Prime Focus Studios, DNEG, and Monster Mind Creations.
"This isn't just about making a big film; it's about telling our story with the best craft the world has to offer," Ranbir Kapoor said. "Whether you watch it in Bengaluru, Mumbai, London, or Tokyo, the core message of duty and truth in the Ramayana speaks to everyone. We are taking our story to the world."
Ramayana, which is set to offer a 3D experience, brings together a pan-Indian cast led by Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as Ravana. The two-part film features Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, alongside Arun Govil as Dasharatha and Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari. The cast also includes Rakul Preet Singh, Faisal Malik, Harish Uthaman, Kunal Kapoor, and Adinath Kothare in key roles. Released worldwide by Sony Pictures International Releasing, the film features an original score composed by A R Rahman and Hans Zimmer.
Ramayana: Part I is scheduled for a worldwide release on November 5, 2026, followed by the second part for Diwali 2027.