Ramayana Interview: Producer Namit Malhotra Talks Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman Score and Both Films

From the visionary producer and CEO of the eight-time Oscar-winning visual effects studio DNEG, Namit Malhotra, and directed by one of India’s most successful award-winning directors, Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is about to be told like never before. Filmed for IMAX, this film, starring Ranbir Kapoor, blends a centuries-old legend, based on the ancient writings of revered Indian poet Valmiki, with breathtaking visuals, setting it up to be one of 2026's most anticipated blockbusters. ​​ In the film, Heaven and Earth's fate hangs in the balance, at the mercy of the Trinity god Vishnu's avatar, the human prince of Ayodhya, Lord Rama (Kapoor). Rama dedicates himself to building an honorable life with his wife, Sita (Sai Pallavi), and brother Lakshman (Ravie Dubey), but unbeknownst to him, his destiny is to rise up against the formidable demon king Ravana (Yash). This reckoning will determine the fate of gods and mortals when these two mighty forces inevitably clash. For a special early preview, Collider's Steve Weintraub had the opportunity to speak with Malhotra, who paused work on part two in India to be in Los Angeles for an exciting teaser celebration. In this interview, the producer explains how Ramayana not only matches the cinematic spectacle of beloved franchises like Avatar and The Lord of the Rings, but was in fact the blueprint for these stories. He goes on to discuss the cultural significance and how it lends itself to an epic moviegoing experience, working with Academy Award-winning composers A.R. Rahman (Slumdog Millionaire) and Hans Zimmer (Dune) on a score that brought him to tears, and filming for IMAX. For all of this and more, check out the full conversation in the video above. #ramayana #namitmalhotra #ranbirkapoor #NiteshTiwari #yash For interviews, movie reviews, and more visit https://collider.com FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL   / collider     / collider     / collider