Timeless epic comes alive on a magnificent canvas
Ramayana: Rise of a Legend
– Review
Retelling the Ramayana for a generation familiar with multiple versions of the epic is no ordinary filmmaking challenge. Director Nitesh Tiwari takes on this enormous responsibility with ‘Ramayana: Rise of a Legend’, a visually ambitious cinematic adaptation featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana.
The film attempts to combine the emotional and philosophical foundations of the ancient epic with the scale and spectacle of contemporary cinema. While the result is not equally successful in every department, it offers several memorable moments that make the theatrical experience worthwhile.
The narrative traces the journey of Lord Rama, beginning with his life in Ayodhya and his eventual exile alongside Sita and Lakshman. The story gradually moves towards the conflict with Ravana, whose actions set the stage for the epic battle between righteousness and evil.
Rather than presenting the familiar story merely as a succession of mythological events, Tiwari attempts to give its central characters emotional motivations. Themes of duty, sacrifice, family bonds, loyalty and the consequences of difficult decisions form the backbone of the narrative.
Ranbir Kapoor’s casting as Rama attracted considerable attention even before the film’s release. The actor approaches the character with restraint, avoiding unnecessary theatricality. His portrayal relies more on composure and emotional control than conventional heroic gestures. He gradually settles into the role, particularly in sequences that demand emotional strength and compassion.
Sai Pallavi is equally effective as Sita. Her natural screen presence and understated acting style complement the character’s dignity and determination. The film also gives Sita moments that highlight her courage and participation in the unfolding conflict rather than presenting her exclusively as a passive figure.
However, it is Yash who emerges as one of the film’s most compelling attractions. His portrayal of Ravana receives considerable attention, with the narrative exploring the character’s ambitions, intellectual abilities and rise to power. Giving the antagonist a substantial backstory adds an interesting dimension to the familiar conflict.
The supporting characters contribute to the film’s larger world, although not everyone receives sufficient development. Ravi Dubey’s Lakshman brings moments of personality and humour to the narrative.
Technically, ‘Ramayana’ aims for an unprecedented scale in Indian filmmaking. Its expansive sets, elaborate action sequences, imaginative landscapes and depiction of mythological kingdoms provide several moments of visual grandeur.
Hans Zimmer’s background score adds emotional weight to the larger sequences, particularly the action portions. The music helps establish the epic atmosphere and enhances the dramatic moments.
However, the film’s dependence on computer-generated imagery is also one of its weaknesses. While several sequences are visually impressive, certain digital creatures and effects appear artificial. These inconsistencies occasionally interrupt the immersion created by the production design.
The other significant concern is the narrative’s lengthy runtime. Some characters and emotional developments could have benefited from more balanced attention. At times, the film seems more interested in presenting its enormous cinematic world than exploring the emotional complexity of every character.
Nevertheless, the film succeeds in making several familiar episodes feel grand and emotionally engaging. The relationship between Rama and his family, particularly the circumstances surrounding his exile, provides some of the film’s most affecting moments.
‘Ramayana: Rise of a Legend’ is clearly designed as a larger cinematic journey, with the first instalment establishing the characters and conflicts that will shape the continuation of the epic.
‘Ramayana’ is an ambitious mythological spectacle supported by impressive performances from Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash. Its occasional visual inconsistencies and uneven character development prevent it from becoming an entirely satisfying epic, but its scale, music and emotional moments make it a theatrical experience worth considering.