Indian cinema’s biggest mythological spectacle is taking shape as actor-producer Yash has begun principal photography on “Ramayana.”
Yash‘s Monster Mind Creations and producer Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios have partnered on the adaptation of the Indian epic.
The project has enlisted Guy Norris, the celebrated stunt director behind “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga,” “Mad Max: Fury Road” and “The Suicide Squad,” to choreograph elaborate action sequences tailored specifically for the massive scale of this mythological adaptation. Norris is currently in India working closely with Yash to craft set pieces that could redefine Indian cinema’s approach to large-scale spectacle.
The two-part film is being directed by Nitesh Tiwari, whose “Dangal” is the highest Indian grosser of all time. Yash is best known for the “K.G.F.” action film franchise, the second part of which is also the fifth-highest grossing Indian film of all time. Malhotra is the global CEO of visual effects company DNEG, which has powered seven VFX Oscar winners in recent years, including “Dune: Part One” and “Tenet.”
The epic narrative follows Prince Rama’s 14-year exile, during which the demon king Ravana abducts his wife Sita, leading to a climactic battle.
The first images from the production reveal the Yash, who leads the ensemble cast alongside Ranbir Kapoor, in peak physical condition, preparing to embody Ravana. Yash is committed to a substantial 60-70 day shooting schedule for “Ramayana Part 1.”
The epic has been adapted numerous times for screen, notably in Ramanand Sagar’s iconic 1987 television series “Ramayan,” the 1993 anime “Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama,” and more recently in 2023’s “Adipurush” starring Prabhas.
“Ramayana Part 1” is slated for release during the 2026 Diwali holiday frame, with the second installment following on Diwali 2027.
Guy Norris, Yash
Prime Focus Studios/Monster Mind Creations