The much-awaited trailer for Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana: Part 1 has finally been released, offering audiences their first extended look at one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious mythological productions, writes Hindustan Times.
Launched during the auspicious Brahma Muhurat at 4:15am, the trailer introduces Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman.
The nearly three-minute preview presents an emotional and visually grand retelling of the opening chapters of the ancient epic while generating widespread discussion across social media.
The trailer begins with Ravana arriving at a grand palace, where he declares the beginning of his reign after overpowering those who stand against him.
As darkness spreads across the kingdoms, Lord Vishnu is reborn as Prince Rama, the son of King Dasharatha, portrayed by Arun Govil.
Viewers are then taken through Rama’s early years as he battles evil alongside his devoted brother Lakshman.
The narrative later shifts to the pivotal moment when Dasharatha is compelled to honour a promise made to Queen Kaikeyi, played by Lara Dutta, sending Rama into a 14-year exile.
Refusing to be left behind, Sita insists on accompanying him, setting the foundation for the legendary journey ahead.
Unlike the earlier teaser, which drew criticism over its visual effects, the official trailer places greater emphasis on storytelling, emotional depth and the grandeur of Ayodhya and Lanka.
The focus remains firmly on the principal characters, with elaborate production design and refined visual effects helping to elevate the cinematic experience.
The trailer has largely been met with enthusiasm online.
Many viewers praised the film’s scale, colour grading and visual effects, describing it as one of the most technically impressive trailers produced by Indian cinema.
Several fans also applauded the background score, calling it suitably epic for the adaptation.
However, not all reactions were positive. Some social media users argued that the trailer still falls short of the enormous expectations surrounding the reported ₹4,000 crore production, with a few pointing to occasional green-screen shots that they felt lacked realism.
Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Rama has also divided opinion.
Supporters praised his restrained and composed performance, saying it reflects the character’s dignity and calm nature.
Others, however, questioned his dialogue delivery and felt it lacked emotional impact.
Among the biggest talking points was Yash’s brief appearance as Ravana.
Despite limited screen time, his commanding presence drew widespread appreciation, with many viewers predicting his performance could become one of the film’s defining highlights.
The improved visual effects also received positive feedback, with fans noting a significant upgrade from the first promotional material released earlier this year.
Many particularly praised the creature designs and overall cinematic presentation.
One notable omission from the trailer was Sunny Deol’s Lord Hanuman.
Fans quickly noticed the absence of both Hanuman and the Vanara Sena, leading to speculation that the filmmakers are deliberately saving the beloved character’s introduction for a later promotional campaign or the film’s second instalment.
Adding to the film’s scale is its musical collaboration between Oscar-winning composers A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer, while visual effects are being handled by DNEG.
The project has also secured a record-breaking ₹75 crore music rights deal with T-Series, underscoring the enormous expectations surrounding the franchise.
Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on 8 November, 2026, with the second instalment planned for release in 2027.
