- Ramayana Part 1 will release in theaters on Diwali 2026, followed by Part 2 in 2027.
- Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash’s first looks received strong reactions online.
- Lara Dutta’s Kaikeyi appearance sparked debate over costumes and styling.
- Vivek Oberoi’s Vidyutjhiva role surprised fans after a brief trailer appearance.
- Social media revived Adipurush memes while comparing both mythological adaptations.
Nitesh Tiwari’s highly anticipated Ramayana is set to arrive in theaters on Diwali 2026, with the second installment scheduled for release during Diwali 2027. Produced by Namit Malhotra, the two-part mythological epic has been one of the biggest Indian film projects in development, reportedly mounted on a massive scale.
The trailer release has created widespread discussion online, with audiences reacting to the film’s visuals, character designs, performances and grand presentation. The film features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravie Dubey as Lakshman, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi and several other prominent actors in key roles.
Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Rama received significant attention, with many viewers praising his transformation into the revered character. Sai Pallavi’s appearance as Sita also generated positive reactions, with fans appreciating the simplicity and grace of her look.
Yash’s portrayal of Ravana became one of the biggest talking points from the trailer. Many viewers praised his powerful screen presence and the intensity he brings to the role of Lanka’s king. The trailer also introduced several supporting characters, including Vivek Oberoi as Vidyutjhiva, a character connected to Ravana’s family story.
Lara Dutta’s Kaikeyi look divides social media
While several characters received praise, Lara Dutta’s portrayal of Kaikeyi became a subject of debate online. Many viewers did not criticize her performance but questioned the costume design and styling, arguing that the look appeared too modern for a story set in the Treta Yuga.
A section of social media users compared her appearance to characters from television dramas. One user wrote, "That saree and hairdo make her look like a rich mother in law from a Star Plus serial/Zee Tv serial," while another commented, "Lara dutta is literally looking as if she is shooting for some TV serial & not Ramayana".
Another viewer questioned the styling choices, writing, "Modern saree, salon-styled side-combed hair… is this Treta Yuga or 2026?"
The criticism highlighted how closely audiences are watching every creative decision in the film, especially because Ramayana is based on one of India’s most revered epics.
The trailer also surprised viewers with Vivek Oberoi’s appearance as Vidyutjhiva. The actor looked almost unrecognizable in heavy armor, a beard and a crown. In the epic’s mythology, Vidyutjhiva was Shurpanakha’s husband and his fate played a role in shaping Ravana’s journey.
- YouTube youtu.be
Adipurush memes return as fans compare mythological films
Before the Ramayana trailer release, social media users began revisiting memories of Om Raut’s Adipurush, which was released in 2023 and received heavy criticism for its visual effects, dialogues and creative choices.
As anticipation around Ramayana increased, clips and scenes from Adipurush once again went viral, with users comparing the two films. Many memes mocked Adipurush while expressing hope that Ramayana would deliver a more faithful adaptation.
One viral post featuring a clip from Adipurush stated, "#Adipurush was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience... because nobody wants to experience it twice (sic)."
Another user commented, "Dialogue Writer #ManojMuntashir deserve atleast 6 Month behind the Bars for Mentally DESTROYING us and making us believe that no can make #Ramayana like us for the next 100 Years (sic)."
Scenes featuring Saif Ali Khan’s Lankesh, unusual visuals and controversial dialogues from Adipurush continue to circulate as memes, with fans using them as a reference point while discussing the new adaptation.
Ramayana has also generated excitement because of its reported scale, detailed character designs and international collaboration. The film’s music features contributions from Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, adding to expectations around the project.
As the release date approaches, the film appears to have already become a major cultural conversation. While many fans are celebrating the visuals and performances, others are closely examining every creative choice, making Ramayana one of the most discussed Indian films ahead of its theatrical debut.
