Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana Faces Criticism: Can Bollywood Do Justice to Mythology?

Ranbir Kapoor’s ambitious mythological project Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has become a talking point for all the wrong reasons. Despite an impressive cast including Sai Pallavi, the film’s first teaser has drawn widespread skepticism over its ability to handle India’s rich mythological heritage.

Bollywood’s recent track record with mythological films has been inconsistent, and many viewers feel Tollywood makers set a higher benchmark in this genre. Tiwari’s last major outing was warmly received, but the stakes are far higher here as he tackles a revered epic. Ranbir Kapoor’s look as Lord Ram and the film’s VFX were swiftly criticized on social media, with several users expressing disappointment and questioning Bollywood’s approach.

In response to the backlash, director Nitesh Tiwari has promised, “As a creator, you are very well aware of certain do’s and don’ts; you can’t go wrong. We have stuck to that,” adding that the film’s heart will remain true to the morals and emotions of the Ramayana. Producer Namit Malhotra compared the scale of the project to global franchises, but such claims have not eased audience doubts.

With the first part set for a Diwali 2026 release, all eyes are on whether Bollywood can rise to the challenge and match the authenticity and grandeur often delivered by Tollywood’s mythological classics.