Cast of Ramayana Part One Discusses Epic Battle Sequences and Complex Roles Ahead of Worldwide Release

Ramayana: Part One hits theatres worldwide today, November 5, bringing a fresh cinematic adaptation of the ancient epic directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra.

Cast Highlights

Leading cast members Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, and Sai Pallavi recently spoke with Fandango about the most challenging and visually ambitious sequences in the film. Ranbir Kapoor, who plays Lord Rama, highlighted the action sequences, including the Ravana and Jatayu fight and the battle against 14,000 Asuras alongside Ram, Lakshman, and Sita. He credited international action specialists Guy Norris and Terry Notary, along with producer Namit Malhotra, for achieving a scale that Indian cinema could not have managed ten years ago. Sai Pallavi, who portrays Sita, named Shurpanakha's shapeshifting sequence, Ravana's ten heads, and an emotionally vulnerable moment during Rama's exile as her favorite scenes. Yash, who essays Ravana, revealed that the abduction sequence was particularly tough, noting the added pressure of perfecting Sanskrit recitation for an observant audience of scholars.

Theatre Reactions

The actors also shared their habits regarding watching films with live audiences. Ranbir Kapoor admitted he stays away from public screenings due to the heartbreak of his first film bombing at the box office. Sai Pallavi stated she would make an exception for this project to witness how audiences feel devotion and experience the film. Yash recalled previously sneaking into theatres to celebrate favorite stars, but stopped doing so after realizing his presence distracted viewers or led to awkward encounters with venue staff.

Context

Nitesh Tiwari's multi-part adaptation is backed by Prime Focus Studios, Monster Mind Creations, and DNEG, featuring music by Oscar winners Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman. The ensemble cast also includes Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman in a project shot specifically for IMAX.