Ramayana, Krishnavataram To Mahavatar Parashuram - Upcoming Films Based On Mythology

Indian

mythology has been an inspiration to filmmakers for decades. With advanced technology and visual effects being key players in narrative, visually arresting stories give the audience a divine theatrical experience. Indian cinema is now moving towards adapting interesting mythological stories for the big screen – some known, some unknown. Amongst the announced projects are the Ramayana franchise, Krishnavataram, Chiranjeevi Hanuman and two movies on Mahavatar Parshuram. Mounted on lavish budgets and featuring a stellar cast, filmmakers are exploring the mythological genre meticulously. Take a look at the five most anticipated movies based on epics.

Ramayana

Based on Valmiki Ramayana, Nitesh Tiwari’s two-part franchise stars Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol, Ravi Dubey, Rakul Preet Singh, Vivek Oberoi, Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, Suhail Nayyar and many others. The first teaser, titled Rama, introduced Ranbir as Maryada Purshottam. Key events, such as Shiv Dhanush, Vanvaas, Dashrath’s death and many others were covered, without a single dialogue. Produced by Prime Focus Studios, in association with eight-time Academy Award️-winning production and visual effects studio DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, Ramayana will be released in IMAX worldwide, Part 1 in Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in Diwali 2027.

Krishnavataram

Rooted in the epic saga of Lord Krishna, Krishnavataram aims to go beyond familiar, delving into untold stories and the profound teachings that continue to shape belief systems even today. With its promise of visual opulence and emotional depth, Krishnavataram is a spiritual and cinematic spectacle. The movie stars Siddharth Gupta as Krishna, Sanskruti Jayana as Satyabhama, Sushmita Bhatt as Radha and Nivaashiyni Krishnan as Rukmini. Directed by Hardik Gajjar, Krishnavataram is presented and produced by Sajan Raj Kurup and Shobha Sant of Creativeland Studios Entertainment along with Poonam Shroff and Parth Gajjar of Athashrikatha Motion Pictures. Conceived as the first chapter of a three-part cinematic franchise, Krishnavataram is set for a worldwide theatrical release on May 7.

Mahavatar Parashuram

Not just one, but two films on Parshuram are being developed. They share the same title. The first one is Maddock Films’ Mahavatar Parashuram, starring Vicky Kaushal. The mythological drama, based on the Vishnu avatar, was announced with a December 2026 release. However, the shoot is yet to begin. According to reports, the film will release in the second half of 2027 as Vicky will be wrapping Love & War before delving into the new project.

The other one is Mahavatar Parshuram, presented by Hombale Films and produced by Kleem Production. The animated movie will release in December 2027. It marks the second installment in the planned seven-part Mahavatar Cinematic Universe. The film will depict how Lord Vishnu took the Parshuram avatar to end the tyranny of corrupt and arrogant Kshatriya kings who had abandoned dharma (righteousness) and were oppressing the world.

Varanasi

Heavily influenced by Hindu mythology, SS Rajamouli’s Varanasi, starring Mahesh Babu, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Prithviraj Sukumaran and Prakash Raj, centres on a deadly asteroid striking Varanasi, forcing a quest across continents and time (Treta Yuga to Kali Yuga) to secure a mythical artefact while facing betrayal. Mahesh plays Rudra, a Shiva devotee navigating multiple eras to prevent a global apocalypse. Reportedly, its budget is Rs 1,400 crore. Varanasi releases globally on April 7, 2027.

Chiranjeevi Hanuman - The Eternal

Chiranjeevi Hanuman – The Eternal cinematically explores the life of Lord Hanuman, the symbol of fearless courage and supreme devotion to Lord Ram. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rajesh Mapuskar (Ferrari Ki Sawaari), the film tells the story of Lord Hanuman while celebrating India’s rich storytelling heritage. Presented by Star Studio18 in association with Collective Studios Historyverse and Abundantia Entertainment, the film is produced by Alok Jain, Ajit Andhare, Vijay Subramaniam and Vikram Malhotra. It releases in 2026.

Which Indian mythological film are you excited to watch in theatres?