Ramayana producer Namit Malhotra believes story of Ranbir Kapoor starrer is “universal” like Oppenheimer and Forrest Gump: “It’s down to us and how we can actually bring it to the world”

March 1, 2025 - 9:36 AM IST

Filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is shaping into one of the most ambitious Indian films ever made. Produced by Namit Malhotra, who also leads the Oscar-winning VFX company DNEG, the film aims to redefine Indian cinema on a global scale. In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Malhotra expressed his vision for Ramayana to be received internationally like Oppenheimer and Forrest Gump. He spoke about the responsibility of bringing this epic story to the world with authenticity and excellence.

Ramayana producer Namit Malhotra believes story of Ranbir Kapoor starrer is “universal” like Oppenheimer and Forrest Gump: “It’s down to us and how we can actually bring it to the world”

Aiming for a Global Impact

Malhotra believes Ramayana has the potential to be India’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon moment. “I do not doubt that it does. In fact, it's down to us and how we can actually bring it to the world. And that is where there's a massive responsibility in doing that," he stated. His team is committed to ensuring the film is a landmark production that resonates beyond Indian audiences.

Lessons from Past Adaptations

Given the mixed reception of previous Ramayana adaptations, including Adipurush, Malhotra and his team are focused on handling the story with care. "That's why we're trying to be very careful and cautious, that we do it with the utmost care and with the utmost sensitivity. Because this opportunity does not come again and again, and it's the moment for India right now," he said. The goal is to present the narrative in a way that honors its cultural significance while making it accessible to global audiences.

Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama in a Two-Part Epic

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as Ravana. The ensemble cast also includes Ravi Dubey, Lara Dutta, Sheeba Chaddha, and Arun Govil. The film is planned as a two-part saga, with releases slated for 2026 and 2027.

Bringing Indian Storytelling to the World

Malhotra’s vision extends beyond domestic success—he wants Indian storytelling to be globally recognized. "I'm keen to not just make India proud but to excite the world about Indian storytelling and really celebrate global cinema together. It's not like we don't like Hollywood films. It's not like we don't see an Oppenheimer and have a great feeling, or a Forrest Gump, or any of these landmark films. Their stories are universal. I believe this is universal too," he explained.

Also Read: Yash starts shooting for Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana in Mumbai; team to shoot war scenes at Aksa Beach