IMAX chief Jonathan Fischer hails Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana as this year’s most anticipated global film

Ramayana

• IMAX's Jonathan Fischer calls Ramayana the most anticipated global film of 2026
• Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, and Sunny Deol in lead roles
• The film releases in IMAX globally Diwali 2026; Part Two follows Diwali 2027.

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IMAX’s Chief Content Officer Jonathan Fischer has given a major endorsement to Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana, calling it “the most anticipated global film of 2026” during a recent event promoting the company’s worldwide expansion plans and cinematic slate. Fischer’s remark underscores the exceptional buzz around the mythological epic, which is being positioned not just as a landmark in Indian cinema but as a global cinematic event ahead of its Diwali 2026 release.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations and the eight-time Oscar-winning VFX powerhouse DNEG, Ramayana is a two-part adaptation of one of the world’s most enduring epics. The first instalment is slated for release during Diwali 2026, with Part Two following in Diwali 2027 — both planned for IMAX worldwide release to maximise scale and visual immersion.

The film boasts a star-studded ensemble cast, with Ranbir Kapoor set to portray Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, and Rocking Star Yash in the formidable role of Ravana. Veteran actor Sunny Deol has also been revealed to play Lord Hanuman, while Ravie Dubey essays Lakshmana, reinforcing the film’s global appeal through its casting of celebrated performers from across Indian cinema.

What sets Ramayana apart is its ambitious blend of cutting-edge technology, visual storytelling and epic scale, with international collaborators contributing to action choreography and cinematic finesse. The narrative reimagines the timeless saga of Rama vs Ravana, bringing rich mythology to life with world-class craftsmanship, 8-time Academy Award–winning VFX, and plans for immersive IMAX experiences.

With Fischer’s endorsement positioning it as a global highlight of the cinematic year, Ramayana is shaping up to be a rare once-in-a-generation project that bridges traditional storytelling and modern spectacle — one with the power to resonate across cultures and continents when it debuts for audiences during the festive Diwali 2026 season.