After being banned for over three decades, the Indo-Japanese animated film Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is finally set to re-release in Indian theatres on October 18, 2024. Initially released in the late 1990s, this film was a collaboration between India and Japan, designed to bring the mythological tale of Lord Rama to the screen in a unique, animated format. Despite its global success, the movie was banned in India due to concerns about its Japanese production and depictions of Hindu gods, which coincided with the sensitive political climate following the 1992 Babri Masjid riots, The Times of India reported.
The animated adaptation was directed by Koichi Sasaki and Ram Mohan, with a screenplay contribution from V. Vijayendra Prasad, known for his work on films like Baahubali and Bajrangi Bhaijaan. The film’s music was composed by Vanraj Bhatia.
In its new release, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama will be available in four languages—Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and English—allowing a broader audience to experience this epic tale. The movie initially received global acclaim after being featured at the International Film Festival of India in 1993, showcasing a remarkable portrayal of Lord Rama’s journey.
Arjun Aggarwal, co-founder of Geek Pictures India, expressed excitement for the re-release, calling the movie “a groundbreaking testament to the strength of Indo-Japan collaborations” and highlighting the dynamic anime-style portrayal of the ancient epic.
This re-release marks a significant moment in India’s film history, bridging the gap between two cultures and reintroducing a legendary story to a new generation.
Key Highlights:
- Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama re-releases after a 31-year ban on October 18, 2024.
- Originally banned due to concerns over its depiction of Hindu gods and the political climate in 1992.
- The movie will now be available in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and English.
The project is a celebrated collaboration between Indian and Japanese creators, blending mythological storytelling with anime-style animation.