By Krishna Dua 
India’s Costliest Film: ₹835 Cr Budget, Oscar-Winning VFX!
Bollywood is known for its larger-than-life spectacles, but a new epic is set to redefine the very meaning of grandeur in Indian cinema. Forget the astronomical budgets of Kalki 2898 AD, the groundbreaking visual effects of RRR, or the mystical scale of Brahmastra and the ambition of Adipurush. A film is currently in production that will dwarf them all, not just in its staggering budget but also in its unparalleled commitment to visual excellence, backed by an eight-time Oscar-winning VFX studio.
We are, of course, talking about Nitesh Tiwari’s highly anticipated magnum opus, “Ramayana: Part 1.” With a reported budget soaring to an astonishing ₹835 crore (approximately $100 million) for its first installment alone, this film is set to become the most expensive Indian cinematic production in history. But it’s not just the money that makes it a game-changer; it’s the collaboration with DNEG, the globally renowned visual effects company, promising a visual experience unlike anything witnessed before on the Indian screen.
This film is more than just a movie; it’s being envisioned as a cultural movement, a cinematic universe that reintroduces India’s timeless epic to a global audience with unprecedented scale and technological sophistication.
Exclusive Insight: Dive deep into the making of India’s most ambitious cinematic project yet!
The Unprecedented Budget: ₹835 Crore for Part 1
The sheer scale of “Ramayana: Part 1” is reflected in its colossal budget. At ₹835 crore, this film significantly surpasses previous record-holders in Indian cinema. Let’s put this into perspective by comparing it to some of India’s recent big-budget blockbusters:
- Kalki 2898 AD: Reported budget of around ₹600 crore.
- RRR: Budget estimated at ₹550 crore.
- Adipurush: Reportedly made with a budget of ₹550 crore.
- Brahmastra: Part One – Shiva: One of Bollywood’s most expensive films, with a reported budget of ₹375-400 crore.
The fact that “Ramayana: Part 1” commands an initial budget that outstrips these cinematic giants by a significant margin underscores the immense ambition and resources being poured into this project. This budget is specifically for the first part of what is planned to be a multi-part franchise, indicating an even grander vision for the series as it unfolds.
A substantial portion of this budget is allocated to VFX and post-production, a crucial area for a mythological epic of this scale. Sources close to the production suggest that the film requires an astonishing 600 days of post-production work. This extensive timeline is a testament to the intricate and original visuals that the makers aim to create, pushing the boundaries of what Indian cinema has achieved so far.
This massive financial commitment isn’t just about spending big; it’s about investing in the highest quality talent, technology, and execution to deliver a truly immersive and spectacular experience that can resonate globally.
The VFX Maestro: DNEG and its Oscar Pedigree
One of the most compelling aspects that elevate “Ramayana: Part 1” to an unprecedented level is its collaboration with DNEG (Double Negative). This British-Indian visual effects company is a titan in the global film industry, boasting an incredible eight Academy Awards for Best Visual Effects.
DNEG’s impressive portfolio includes work on some of Hollywood’s biggest and most visually stunning films:
- Inception (2010)
- Interstellar (2014)
- Machina (2014)
- Blade Runner 2049 (2017)
- First Man (2018)
- Tenet (2020)
- Dune: Part One (2021)
- Dune: Part Two (2024)
The fact that the same studio behind the breathtaking visuals of the Dune saga and other sci-fi masterpieces is handling the VFX for “Ramayana: Part 1” sets an incredibly high bar. Namit Malhotra, CEO of DNEG and also a producer of “Ramayana,” has explicitly stated his vision to leverage his global experience to make this film a global spectacle. He highlighted that DNEG is not just handling visual effects but is deeply integrated into the production, bringing decades of learning and innovation to the project.
This partnership signifies a pivotal moment for Indian cinema, blurring the lines between Bollywood and Hollywood production standards and showcasing India’s capability to deliver world-class visual effects for its own stories. The aim is to reimagine the landscapes, creatures, and battles of the Ramayana epic with a scale and splendor that has never been seen before, rooted in authenticity and emotion.
Behind the Scenes: Discover how Hollywood’s best VFX talents are transforming Indian cinema!
The Visionary Director and Star-Studded Cast
At the helm of this ambitious project is Nitesh Tiwari, known for his critically acclaimed and commercially successful films like Dangal and Chhichhore. Tiwari’s approach to storytelling combines mass appeal with thoughtful narratives, making him an ideal choice to adapt an epic as revered as the Ramayana. He has emphasized that “Ramayana is a story we’ve all grown up with. It carries the soul of our culture. Our aim was to honor that soul—and present it with the cinematic scale it truly deserves.”
The film boasts a formidable and star-studded cast that brings gravitas and talent to the iconic roles:
- Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama
- Sai Pallavi as Sita
- Yash (of KGF fame) as Ravana
The ensemble cast further strengthens the film’s appeal, including:
- Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi
- Vivek Oberoi in a pivotal role
- Rakul Preet Singh
- Kajal Aggarwal
- Ravi Dubey
- Kunal Kapoor
- Arun Govil (who famously played Lord Rama in the original Doordarshan Ramayana)
- Sheeba Chadha
- Indira Krishnan
This powerful combination of directorial vision and acting prowess is geared towards delivering not just a visual spectacle but also an emotionally resonant and authentic portrayal of the epic. The casting choices, particularly Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi, have generated immense curiosity and anticipation among fans.
A Global Spectacle: Production and Release
“Ramayana: Part 1” is being produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and DNEG, in association with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations. This collaboration signals a concerted effort to create a film that appeals to a global audience while staying true to its Indian roots.
The film is being shot for immersive formats, including IMAX, promising a truly transcendent theatrical experience. This commitment to cutting-edge technology and global standards means “Ramayana: Part 1” aims to be a cinematic odyssey that captures the imagination of audiences worldwide.
The release strategy is equally ambitious:
- “Ramayana: Part 1” is slated for a Diwali 2026 release.
- “Ramayana: Part 2” is expected to follow in Diwali 2027.
The first glimpse of this epic universe, titled ‘Ramayana: The Introduction,’ was reportedly unveiled globally on July 3, 2025, with fan screenings across nine Indian cities and a spectacular billboard takeover at Times Square, New York. This global launch strategy highlights the producers’ intent to position “Ramayana” as a major international event.
Box Office Battle: How will Ramayana Part 1 compete with other upcoming Indian blockbusters?
Beyond the Numbers: The Cultural Significance
While the budget and VFX are staggering, the true essence of “Ramayana: Part 1” lies in its cultural significance. The Ramayana is not merely a story but a deeply ingrained part of Indian culture, revered by billions globally. Bringing this epic to life with such scale and fidelity is seen as a major responsibility and a tremendous opportunity.
After previous adaptations, including the recent Adipurush, which faced criticism for its visual effects and dialogues, the expectations from Nitesh Tiwari’s “Ramayana” are immense. The makers are acutely aware of the emotional connection people have with the epic and are committed to presenting it with the reverence and authenticity it deserves, while also innovating visually.
This film has the potential to:
- Reintroduce the epic: For a new generation, the modern cinematic retelling could be their first in-depth exposure to the Ramayana.
- Elevate Indian storytelling: Showcasing that Indian narratives can be presented on a global scale with top-tier technology.
- Boost the industry: Setting new benchmarks for production quality and ambition in Indian cinema.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Anticipation
Creating a film of this magnitude is fraught with challenges. The long post-production schedule underscores the complexity of the VFX work. Managing such a colossal budget and ensuring every rupee translates into cinematic excellence requires meticulous planning and execution. Furthermore, living up to the immense expectations of a story so deeply embedded in public consciousness is a monumental task.
However, the team behind “Ramayana: Part 1” seems prepared for these challenges. With DNEG’s expertise, Nitesh Tiwari’s storytelling prowess, and a dedicated cast, the film is poised to overcome these hurdles. The excitement generated by every leaked photo from the sets and every piece of news indicates a fervent anticipation among audiences.
Conclusion: A New Era for Indian Cinema
“Ramayana: Part 1” is more than just India’s most expensive film; it represents a new frontier for Indian cinema. It’s a bold statement of intent – an assertion that Indian stories, when told with global standards of technology and unwavering dedication, can captivate audiences worldwide. The combination of an astronomical budget, Oscar-winning visual effects, a visionary director, and a stellar cast sets the stage for a cinematic event that promises to be both a cultural phenomenon and a technological marvel.
As we eagerly await its Diwali 2026 release, “Ramayana: Part 1” stands as a beacon of ambition and artistic integrity, ready to etch its name in the annals of film history and deliver an unforgettable experience that transcends borders and generations.
Disclaimer: This article compiles information from various reports and official announcements. Specific details regarding budgets, cast, and release dates are subject to change based on official production updates. Always refer to verified sources for the latest information
- Sardaar Ji 3 Row – Diljit Dosanjh vs Mika Singh Controversy
- Sitaare Zameen Par Day 4: Aamir’s Film Passes Monday Test
- 🎉 HBD Thalapathy Vijay: ₹445 Cr Net Worth, Seaside Villa & Supercars!