Nitesh Tiwari on why he chose two part format for Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi's 'Ramayana': 'Something one can call cliffhanger'
ETimes | July 27, 2026 8:39 PM CST
Indian cinema has revisited the timeless tale of the 'Ramayana' for decades, with numerous filmmakers presenting their own interpretations of the epic. Yet, director Nitesh Tiwari believes his version offers something different by unfolding the story across two feature films rather than condensing it into a single release. The filmmaker recently spoke about this creative decision during the global promotional campaign for 'Ramayana' at San Diego Comic-Con , where the team interacted with international media and audiences.
Speaking with IGN, Tiwari, revealed that the first installment has been deliberately structured to conclude at a dramatic turning point that naturally leads into the sequel.
He said, "Ramayana is a linear story, and where we leave off in Part One is something you can call a cliffhanger. Something that will make people want to watch Part Two the moment they leave the theatre. That's basically it." The filmmaker added that dividing the narrative into two films was always driven by storytelling rather than commercial considerations. He further said, "It's a story that deserves two parts. It cannot be told in one part, and we just decided that this would probably be the best juncture to leave it on in Part One, leaving the rest for Part Two."
Where modern visuals meet timeless emotionsWhile countless adaptations of the 'Ramayana' have been made over the years, Tiwari believes his version offers a fresh cinematic experience without losing sight of the epic's emotional essence.
Explaining his creative vision, he said, "At the heart of it, it's all about relationships and the emotions that come with it. That's exactly what we have tried to capture. Along with that, we have given it a cutting-edge execution. That's what makes it very exciting. The same story, which many people may have heard and seen before, will be absolutely refreshing. This is an absolutely fresh take on that in terms of execution."
'Ramayana' release plan already lockedThe makers have already announced release dates for both chapters of the ambitious project. ' Ramayana Part One ' is slated to arrive in cinemas ahead of the Diwali festivities this November, while ' Ramayana Part Two ' is scheduled for a theatrical release before Diwali in 2027, completing the cinematic saga over two installments.
Although generations of audiences already know the story of the 'Ramayana', Tiwari believes his adaptation will still offer a fresh viewing experience.
According to the filmmaker, the emotional bonds between the characters remain at the core of the narrative. By combining those timeless relationships with advanced filmmaking technology and contemporary visual storytelling, the team hopes to present the epic in a way that feels both authentic and visually spectacular.
'Ramayana' star-studded cast brings epic to lifeThe two-part spectacle features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana , leading an ensemble cast in one of Indian cinema's most ambitious mythological adaptations.
Speaking with IGN, Tiwari, revealed that the first installment has been deliberately structured to conclude at a dramatic turning point that naturally leads into the sequel.
He said, "Ramayana is a linear story, and where we leave off in Part One is something you can call a cliffhanger. Something that will make people want to watch Part Two the moment they leave the theatre. That's basically it." The filmmaker added that dividing the narrative into two films was always driven by storytelling rather than commercial considerations. He further said, "It's a story that deserves two parts. It cannot be told in one part, and we just decided that this would probably be the best juncture to leave it on in Part One, leaving the rest for Part Two."
Where modern visuals meet timeless emotionsWhile countless adaptations of the 'Ramayana' have been made over the years, Tiwari believes his version offers a fresh cinematic experience without losing sight of the epic's emotional essence.
Explaining his creative vision, he said, "At the heart of it, it's all about relationships and the emotions that come with it. That's exactly what we have tried to capture. Along with that, we have given it a cutting-edge execution. That's what makes it very exciting. The same story, which many people may have heard and seen before, will be absolutely refreshing. This is an absolutely fresh take on that in terms of execution."
'Ramayana' release plan already lockedThe makers have already announced release dates for both chapters of the ambitious project. ' Ramayana Part One ' is slated to arrive in cinemas ahead of the Diwali festivities this November, while ' Ramayana Part Two ' is scheduled for a theatrical release before Diwali in 2027, completing the cinematic saga over two installments.
Although generations of audiences already know the story of the 'Ramayana', Tiwari believes his adaptation will still offer a fresh viewing experience.
According to the filmmaker, the emotional bonds between the characters remain at the core of the narrative. By combining those timeless relationships with advanced filmmaking technology and contemporary visual storytelling, the team hopes to present the epic in a way that feels both authentic and visually spectacular.
'Ramayana' star-studded cast brings epic to lifeThe two-part spectacle features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana , leading an ensemble cast in one of Indian cinema's most ambitious mythological adaptations.
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