Highlights
- AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer are collaborating on the music for Nitesh Tiwari’s two-part Ramayana.
- The film’s soundtrack combines Indian musical influences with an ambitious cinematic vision.
- The first song, Jai Jai Ram, features vocals by Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal, with lyrics by Kumar Vishwas.
Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana is bringing together two acclaimed composers, AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer, for a musical collaboration that adds another dimension to one of Indian cinema’s most ambitious projects.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the two-part epic retells the ancient Indian story of Lord Rama, Sita and Ravana. With Rahman and Zimmer associated with the film’s music, the soundtrack is set to play an important role in shaping the scale and emotional impact of the cinematic adaptation.
The collaboration also brings together two distinct musical backgrounds, with Rahman known for his work across Indian cinema and international projects, and Zimmer recognized for his scores for major Hollywood productions.
AR Rahman’s musical approach to Ramayana
The film’s first song, Jai Jai Ram, was unveiled on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi in September. Composed by Rahman, the track features singers Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal, with lyrics by Kumar Vishwas.
The song offers a new interpretation of the traditional devotional refrain “Jai Siya Ram.” Its accompanying video features moments from Rama and Sita’s wedding, Rama’s prowess as a warrior, and their journey through Ayodhya as people shower flower petals on the couple.
The release introduced audiences to the musical world of the film, placing devotional themes at the center of its retelling of the epic.
Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana brings an ambitious vision to the screen
The film features Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Ravi Dubey as Lakshmana, and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. The ensemble also includes Arun Govil as King Dasharatha, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha, and Vivek Oberoi as Vidyutjihva.
Producer Namit Malhotra has described the project as an attempt to bring the Indian epic to a global audience on an unprecedented scale. In an interview with Prakhar Gupta, he said the combined budget for both installments would be around $500 million.
The first film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release in October 2026, ahead of Diwali, while the second installment is planned for Diwali 2027.
With its large ensemble, extensive visual effects and musical collaboration, Ramayana aims to offer a cinematic retelling of a story that has been adapted across generations and cultures.
