The iconic animated film Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is making its long-awaited return to Indian theatres on October 18, 2024. Originally released in 1992, this Indo-Japanese animated production, which has captivated audiences for decades, will now be available in four languages: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and English.
The film was a collaborative effort between Indian animation pioneer Ram Mohan and Japanese director Yugo Sako. Combining the cultural richness of India with the stylistic flair of Japanese animation, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama brings to life the ancient Indian epic with a visually stunning representation of Prince Rama’s quest to rescue his wife, Sita, from the demon king Ravana. The unique blend of cultural storytelling and anime aesthetics made the film a standout production in its original release.
This re-release is a product of renewed interest in the film, bolstered by the involvement of V Vijayendra Prasad, the screenwriter behind mega-hits such as Baahubali and RRR. Prasad’s creative insights into this adaptation have added an extra layer of anticipation to the re-release.
On September 19, Geek Pictures India, which is spearheading the re-release, shared a teaser and poster on social media. With the caption, “A tale as old as time, and forever alive in every heart,” the post confirmed the film’s return to theatres across India in the four languages. The trailer teases visually stunning sequences of Prince Rama, highlighting the intense battles and captivating visuals that have earned the film its legendary status.
Arjun Aggarwal, co-founder of Geek Pictures India, spoke on the film’s cross-cultural appeal: “The Ramayana in anime is a groundbreaking testament to the strength of Indo-Japan collaborations… bringing this epic to life in a way that’s never been seen before.”
While Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama was initially lauded for bringing the story of Ramayana to a global audience and promoting cultural exchange, it faced some controversy in India. Certain groups were concerned about how an international team of filmmakers interpreted the sacred epic, resulting in a brief ban of the film.
However, with the film now set to return, its re-release signals a turning point, inviting both nostalgia and renewed admiration for the animated epic. Fans of animation and Indian mythology alike are eager to see how the iconic tale has been enhanced for modern viewers.
With its rich blend of Japanese animation and Indian storytelling, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama has etched itself into the history of animated cinema. Its return is not just a theatrical re-release but a celebration of the film’s cultural significance and its ability to transcend borders.
This re-release gives a new generation of viewers the opportunity to experience a unique portrayal of one of India’s most beloved epics on the big screen. It’s an exciting time for fans of both the Ramayana and anime, as the film promises to deliver a captivating journey once more.
Key Highlights:
- Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama will be re-released in Indian theatres on October 18, 2024, in four languages.
- The animated film was originally produced in 1992 as an Indo-Japanese collaboration between Ram Mohan and Yugo Sako.
- Screenwriter V Vijayendra Prasad has contributed to the new adaptation, increasing excitement for the film’s re-release.
- The film faced initial controversy in India but is now set for a grand return, celebrating its cultural legacy.