Fadnavis backs Ramayana for Oscar; expresses disappointment if it doesn't win

During the inauguration of Namit Malhotra’s new studio, Prime One, in Mumbai on Thursday, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis used the occasion to champion the upcoming epic film series based on the Ramayana. Speaking to the gathered press and film industry insiders, the CM praised the project’s ambition and expressed personal hope that it would secure an Academy Award, adding that he would feel disappointed if the film did not bring home an Oscar.

Fadnavis highlighted the collaboration between director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra, noting that the production is backed by DNEG—an eight‑time Oscar‑winning visual effects studio operating under Prime Focus. He also mentioned the involvement of Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, which is co‑producing the films. The two‑part saga will star Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana, with the first installment slated for release during the Diwali 2026 season and the second for Diwali 2027.

The Chief Minister’s remarks came as part of Prime Focus Studio’s Phase 1 launch at Film City, a move that also dovetails with a broader initiative announced at the WAVES Summit. Prime Focus and the Maharashtra government have outlined plans to develop a Global Entertainment Ecosystem in Mumbai, positioning the state as a key hub for film production and post‑production services.

While the trailer for the Ramayana films has already been released online after a debut at San Diego Comic‑Con and a Pratham Sankalp event in New Delhi, it has sparked mixed reactions. Critics and audiences alike have drawn comparisons to Om Raut’s earlier adaptation, Adipurush. The Ramlila Mahasangh, a prominent Hindu organization, has requested that the filmmakers screen the movie for its representatives before a theatrical release, citing concerns that certain scenes might offend Hindu sentiments. The group warned that if its request is not honored, it could mobilize protests alongside other Hindu groups.

In a statement to PTI, the Mahasangh’s president Arjun Kumar emphasized that the Ramayana is a sacred text revered by billions and that the organization had previously seen inaccuracies in Adipurush. He urged filmmakers to avoid repeating such mistakes. The controversy underscores the sensitive nature of adapting mythological stories for modern cinema and the high expectations placed on this high‑profile project.