Ramayana Part 1 Opens in Theaters With Rahman-Zimmer Score

The first of two films retelling the Ramayana follows Prince Rama, played by Ranbir Kapoor, and Sita, played by Sai Pallavi, after Sita is abducted by Ravana, portrayed by Yash. The production is led by director Nitesh Tiwari, with visual effects handled by DNEG and ReDefine. The reported budget is $420 million, which would make it India’s most expensive film.

Producer Namit Malhotra said the project’s scale became possible when the necessary talent and filmmaking experience came together. He also described adapting the epic as a responsibility, citing the significance of Lord Ram to many people. Malhotra said the production aims to reach global audiences while remaining faithful to its source.

Tiwari said his approach focuses on relationships, emotional choices and performances, rather than relying on plot surprises in a familiar story. He said the challenge is to make viewers feel the meaning of events even when they already know what happens.

Rahman and Zimmer composed the score together, a first for an Indian film. The music was recorded with an orchestra at London’s AIR Studios. The soundtrack rollout began with “Jai Jai Ram,” released on September 14 to coincide with Ganesh Chaturthi. Malhotra said the aim is for the songs to connect with listeners beyond the film.

The film is currently available only in theaters in the United States. In India, it is expected to stream on JioHotstar after its theatrical run through an on-demand purchase option. A U.S. Netflix release is expected eventually under Sony’s Pay 1 arrangement, but an early 2027 arrival is an estimate rather than a confirmed date.