Focus on Characters, Not VFX: Salman Khan on Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana
Salman Khan believes the discussion on Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana should focus on characters and story, not the budget or VFX.
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has weighed in on the massive anticipation surrounding the upcoming cinematic adaptation of the ancient epic, Salman Khan on Ramayana. During a recent event, the actor expressed his belief that the conversation surrounding Ranbir Kapoor's starrer should pivot away from technicalities and financial figures, focusing instead on the spiritual and narrative essence of the story.
Story Over Spectacle
Speaking at the trailer launch of his own upcoming project, Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace, Salman Khan addressed the ongoing chatter regarding the film's reported production costs and visual effects. He argued that the heart of the epic lies in its characters rather than its budget.
"I just think Ramayana ka charcha Ramayana pe hona chahiye na ki VFX and cost of production par," Salman stated. "I think this narrative ki 4000 (budget of Ramayana) aur VFX, VFX, VFX. I just don't think ki that is correct."
The actor emphasized that the discourse should remain centered on the legendary figures of the epic, specifically mentioning Ram, Ravana, and Sita. He also nostalgically mentioned his experience watching the classic Ramanand Sagar version of the Ramayan.
Drawing Parallels with 'Maatrubhumi'
While discussing the virtues of Lord Ram—describing him as a devoted son, husband, father, and a formidable warrior—Salman drew a parallel to the protagonist of his own upcoming film, Maatrubhumi. He noted that the central character in his movie embodies several of these same revered qualities.
The Grand Scale of Nitesh Tiwari's Epic
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part 1 is the first of a two-part cinematic journey. The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast bringing the divine characters to life:
- Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama
- Sai Pallavi as Sita
- Yash as Ravana
- Ravie Dubey as Lakshman
- Sunny Deol as Hanuman
- Anupam Kher providing the voice for Jatayu
The production, produced by Namit Malhotra, also features prominent actors such as Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, and Rakul Preet Singh. The film was released globally on November 5, 2026.
Updates on 'Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace'
Salman also shared insights into the production delays of his latest film, Maatrubhumi: May War Rest In Peace. Originally titled Battle of Galwan, the movie is based on the 2020 clash between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley.
Explaining the shift in the release schedule, Salman revealed that while they initially planned to wrap filming in 45-50 days, an injury to a female lead caused significant delays. After moving the date from January/June to August, the film is now slated for a December 4 release.
Directed by Apoorva Lakhia and produced by Salma Khan under the Salman Khan Films banner, the movie also features Chitrangada Singh in a pivotal role.