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Filmmaker Karan Johar has shared an enthusiastic review of Ramayana, calling its cinematic adaptation of the Indian epic nothing short of a miracle. In a lengthy
Instagram post, Johar praised director Nitesh Tiwari, producer Namit Malhotra and the film’s principal cast, including Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. He said the team had achieved something that many filmmakers could only dream of, and described himself as an inspired filmmaker and a proud Indian cinegoer. KJo also urged audiences to watch the film with their families this Diwali weekend. Ramayana released in theatres on November 5.
Karan Johar Reviews Ramayana
Sharing his thoughts on Instagram, Karan Johar reflected on the cultural significance of the Ramayana, describing it as a story that generations of Indians have grown up reading, watching and retelling. "Ramayana… a story immersed in our cultural veins… a story generations have grown up on… a story that is an embodiment of values, traditions and pure humanity," he wrote.
The filmmaker said he was blown away by the film’s cinematic adaptation, adding that he had the deepest respect for everyone involved in bringing the ambitious project to life. Johar reserved special praise for producer Namit Malhotra, saying his conviction and courage had inspired him as a filmmaker. He also applauded director Nitesh Tiwari for his craft and confidence in telling a familiar story with simplicity and strength.
Karan Johar hails Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash
Johar had particularly generous words for the lead cast. Praising Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Ram, he said the actor had made audiences believe in him as a divine force of goodness and humanity without relying on unnecessary embellishments.
Calling it Ranbir's most challenging role, Johar described his performance as "deeply meditative" and said the actor’s eyes did much of the emotional work. He also praised Sai Pallavi as Sita, describing her portrayal as "divine" and "sublime". Johar appreciated the emotional strength and agency she brought to the character, particularly her depiction of sacrifice and unconditional love.
Yash, who plays Ravana, was another major highlight for the filmmaker. Johar called him "mesmerising and powerful", adding that the actor commanded attention every time he appeared on screen. He also singled out the sequence depicting Ravana's multiple inner voices, calling it outstanding.
Ravi Dubey received a special mention for his role as Lakshmana. Johar praised his portrayal of a loyal and loving brother, saying the performance moved him and brought a smile to his face. He also congratulated the entire crew, the technicians and the ensemble cast for their work on the epic. He also urged families to watch the film in theatres, calling it a "divine blessing".
Dharma Productions' association with Ramayana
Karan Johar's association with Ramayana goes beyond his admiration for the film. His production banner, Dharma Productions, is handling the film's theatrical distribution in the Hindi-speaking markets in North India. Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Studios and Yash's Monster Mind Creations are producing the film, and DNEG is doing the visual effects.
