Mukesh Khanna Slams VFX Use in Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana, Says ‘Shri Ram Ko Salman Khan, Rajinikanth Bana Diya’
Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, has become one of the most talked-about Indian films of 2026. While the film has generated considerable attention for its scale, cast and visual effects, veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has now shared strong criticism of the trailer’s action-heavy presentation of Lord Rama and the extensive use of VFX.
Khanna, known for his portrayal of Shaktimaan, questioned whether the makers have presented Lord Rama in a manner consistent with the traditional image of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram. In an interaction with Bollywood Now, he specifically referred to the action sequences and said he felt the character had been presented more like a contemporary action hero.
His comments have added another layer to the ongoing discussion surrounding Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Rama in Ramayana.
Mukesh Khanna Questions Ranbir Kapoor’s Lord Rama Portrayal
Mukesh Khanna’s primary concern appears to be the way Lord Rama has been presented in the trailer. According to reports, he objected to sequences in which Rama is shown performing elaborate action movements, including a scene involving him climbing a tree and shooting arrows.
Khanna argued that although Lord Rama was a skilled warrior and archer, the particular style of action shown in the trailer does not match his understanding of Rama’s traditional portrayal.
He said that after watching the trailer, he felt the character had been transformed into the kind of larger-than-life action hero audiences associate with Bollywood and Indian cinema stars.
Khanna famously compared the portrayal with stars such as Salman Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth, saying that “Ram Ram hai” and that the character should retain the dignity associated with Maryada Purushottam.
The statement has quickly become one of the most discussed reactions to the Ramayana trailer.
‘Shri Ram Ko Salman Khan, Rajinikanth Bana Diya’
The veteran actor’s most widely reported remark was his comparison of the character with popular action stars.
Khanna said that the makers had made Lord Rama resemble Salman Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth. He also referred to the action-heavy presentation as being closer to a “man of action” than the traditional image of Maryada Purushottam.
He further questioned the need for such elaborate action sequences when the Ramayana traditionally places significant emphasis on Rama’s character, conduct, values and relationship with other characters.
His criticism, therefore, is not simply about Ranbir Kapoor’s performance. It is also about the creative interpretation of an ancient epic for a modern cinematic audience.
Mukesh Khanna Also Questions Heavy VFX in Ramayana
Alongside the action sequences, Mukesh Khanna also raised concerns about the extensive use of VFX in Ramayana.
The film has been mounted on an enormous scale, with the makers aiming to create a visual spectacle capable of reaching audiences around the world. However, Khanna suggested that Indian audiences may view the film differently because Lord Rama is not merely a fictional cinematic character for them but is deeply connected with religious and cultural traditions.
According to reports, Khanna said international audiences could potentially compare the film’s spectacle with franchises such as Star Wars, whereas Indian audiences would approach the depiction through the lens of faith and cultural familiarity.
His argument highlights one of the biggest challenges involved in adapting the Ramayana for modern cinema: balancing spectacular filmmaking technology with the traditional understanding of its central characters.
Why Ramayana’s VFX Has Become a Talking Point
VFX is expected to play a major role in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana because of the scale of its story.
The epic involves Ayodhya, forests, Lanka, the Vanar Sena, battles and numerous larger-than-life sequences. Recreating these environments for a contemporary theatrical film naturally requires extensive visual effects and computer-generated imagery.
The promotional material has already attracted attention for its large-scale visuals.
However, reactions to the VFX have not been uniform. Earlier audience reactions to the trailer included discussions about the CGI, character designs, visual presentation and Ranbir Kapoor’s appearance as Lord Rama.
Khanna’s comments have consequently become part of a larger public conversation about how Indian mythology should be represented on the big screen.
Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama
Ranbir Kapoor’s casting as Lord Rama has been one of the most closely watched aspects of the project.
The actor is stepping into a role associated with one of the most recognised figures in Indian culture. The film therefore carries expectations that go beyond conventional Bollywood casting discussions.
The trailer has provided audiences with their first substantial glimpse of Kapoor as Rama, while Sai Pallavi appears as Sita and Yash plays Ravana.
Khanna’s comments focus particularly on the interpretation of Rama rather than simply the actor’s presence in the film.
He has argued that the character should not be presented primarily through action or physical spectacle, but should retain the qualities traditionally associated with Maryada Purushottam.
What Is Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana About?
Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is a large-scale cinematic adaptation of the ancient Indian epic.
The project is being made in two parts. The first part is scheduled for release around Diwali 2026, while the second part is planned for Diwali 2027, according to reports.
The film features a major ensemble cast, including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol, Ravie Dubey, Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, Rakul Preet Singh and Vivek Oberoi.
Ranbir Kapoor is reportedly playing both Lord Rama and Parshurama, while Yash essays Ravana.
The scale of the project has also attracted international attention because of its reported production budget and ambition.
Reported Rs 4,000 Crore Scale
The makers have described Ramayana as an extremely ambitious cinematic project.
According to reports, producer Namit Malhotra has discussed a combined budget of around $500 million, which has been widely reported as being more than Rs 4,000 crore for both parts.
The enormous reported budget is reflected in the film’s international ambitions, production design and reliance on visual effects.
However, the discussion surrounding Khanna’s comments demonstrates that technical scale alone is not the only factor audiences may consider when evaluating a mythological adaptation.
For a film based on the Ramayana, questions of characterisation, cultural context and emotional authenticity are likely to remain central to audience conversations.
Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman Join Forces
Another major attraction of the project is its music.
The film features music by Oscar-winning composers Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, bringing together two internationally recognised names.
Their involvement has further raised expectations around the film’s background score, themes and overall soundscape.
The combination of international production ambitions, Indian mythology, a major Bollywood cast and globally recognised musical talent has positioned Ramayana as one of the most ambitious Indian film projects currently in production.
Mukesh Khanna’s Comments Spark Debate
Khanna’s criticism has generated considerable discussion because he has previously been associated with iconic Indian television characters and has frequently spoken about the portrayal of mythological and superhero figures.
His comments essentially raise a creative question: Should a modern Ramayana adaptation prioritise spectacular action and VFX, or should it focus more heavily on the traditional characterisation of Lord Rama?
There is no single cinematic approach to adapting an ancient epic, and filmmakers can interpret historical, religious and literary material differently. In the case of Ramayana, however, the subject carries particular cultural significance, making creative choices especially visible to audiences.
Khanna’s remarks represent his own interpretation of what the character should look and feel like on screen.
Ramayana Release Date
The first part of Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is expected to arrive in theatres during Diwali 2026, with the second part planned for Diwali 2027.
The film’s release will likely become a major theatrical event because of its cast, scale and international ambitions.
With Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana, the project has already attracted substantial attention before its theatrical release.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ramayana
Who is playing Lord Rama in Ramayana?
Ranbir Kapoor is playing Lord Rama in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana.
Who is playing Sita in Ramayana?
Sai Pallavi is playing Sita in the film.
Who is playing Ravana in Ramayana?
Kannada superstar Yash is playing Ravana.
What did Mukesh Khanna say about Ramayana?
Mukesh Khanna criticised the action-heavy portrayal of Lord Rama and questioned the extensive use of VFX. He said the portrayal reminded him of contemporary action stars and argued that Rama should retain the dignity associated with Maryada Purushottam.
Why did Mukesh Khanna criticise the VFX?
Khanna said that international audiences might view the film primarily as a large-scale visual spectacle, while Indian audiences would also consider the religious and cultural significance of Lord Rama.
When will Ramayana release?
The first part is scheduled for Diwali 2026, with the second part planned for Diwali 2027, according to current reports.
Final Take
Mukesh Khanna’s remarks have brought renewed attention to the creative choices behind Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana. His criticism focuses on two key areas: the action-oriented portrayal of Lord Rama and the extensive use of VFX.
Whether audiences ultimately agree with his interpretation will become clearer once the complete film reaches theatres. For now, the debate highlights the unique challenge faced by filmmakers attempting to bring one of India’s most culturally significant epics to a modern global audience.
With its massive reported scale, star-studded cast, international ambitions and two-part format, Ramayana remains one of the most closely watched Indian films of 2026. The film’s eventual reception will depend not only on its visual spectacle but also on how audiences respond to its storytelling, performances, music and interpretation of characters that have been part of Indian cultural traditions for generations.
Nitesh Tiwari’s much-awaited Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, has become one of the most talked-about Indian films of 2026. While the film has generated considerable attention for its scale, cast and visual effects, veteran actor Mukesh Khanna has now shared strong criticism of the trailer’s action-heavy presentation of Lord Rama and the extensive use of VFX.
Khanna, known for his portrayal of Shaktimaan, questioned whether the makers have presented Lord Rama in a manner consistent with the traditional image of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram. In an interaction with Bollywood Now, he specifically referred to the action sequences and said he felt the character had been presented more like a contemporary action hero.
His comments have added another layer to the ongoing discussion surrounding Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Rama in Ramayana.
Mukesh Khanna Questions Ranbir Kapoor’s Lord Rama Portrayal
Mukesh Khanna’s primary concern appears to be the way Lord Rama has been presented in the trailer. According to reports, he objected to sequences in which Rama is shown performing elaborate action movements, including a scene involving him climbing a tree and shooting arrows.
Khanna argued that although Lord Rama was a skilled warrior and archer, the particular style of action shown in the trailer does not match his understanding of Rama’s traditional portrayal.
He said that after watching the trailer, he felt the character had been transformed into the kind of larger-than-life action hero audiences associate with Bollywood and Indian cinema stars.
Khanna famously compared the portrayal with stars such as Salman Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth, saying that “Ram Ram hai” and that the character should retain the dignity associated with Maryada Purushottam.
The statement has quickly become one of the most discussed reactions to the Ramayana trailer.
‘Shri Ram Ko Salman Khan, Rajinikanth Bana Diya’
The veteran actor’s most widely reported remark was his comparison of the character with popular action stars.
Khanna said that the makers had made Lord Rama resemble Salman Khan, Amitabh Bachchan and Rajinikanth. He also referred to the action-heavy presentation as being closer to a “man of action” than the traditional image of Maryada Purushottam.
He further questioned the need for such elaborate action sequences when the Ramayana traditionally places significant emphasis on Rama’s character, conduct, values and relationship with other characters.
His criticism, therefore, is not simply about Ranbir Kapoor’s performance. It is also about the creative interpretation of an ancient epic for a modern cinematic audience.
Mukesh Khanna Also Questions Heavy VFX in Ramayana
Alongside the action sequences, Mukesh Khanna also raised concerns about the extensive use of VFX in Ramayana.
The film has been mounted on an enormous scale, with the makers aiming to create a visual spectacle capable of reaching audiences around the world. However, Khanna suggested that Indian audiences may view the film differently because Lord Rama is not merely a fictional cinematic character for them but is deeply connected with religious and cultural traditions.
According to reports, Khanna said international audiences could potentially compare the film’s spectacle with franchises such as Star Wars, whereas Indian audiences would approach the depiction through the lens of faith and cultural familiarity.
His argument highlights one of the biggest challenges involved in adapting the Ramayana for modern cinema: balancing spectacular filmmaking technology with the traditional understanding of its central characters.
Why Ramayana’s VFX Has Become a Talking Point
VFX is expected to play a major role in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana because of the scale of its story.
The epic involves Ayodhya, forests, Lanka, the Vanar Sena, battles and numerous larger-than-life sequences. Recreating these environments for a contemporary theatrical film naturally requires extensive visual effects and computer-generated imagery.
The promotional material has already attracted attention for its large-scale visuals.
However, reactions to the VFX have not been uniform. Earlier audience reactions to the trailer included discussions about the CGI, character designs, visual presentation and Ranbir Kapoor’s appearance as Lord Rama.
Khanna’s comments have consequently become part of a larger public conversation about how Indian mythology should be represented on the big screen.
Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama
Ranbir Kapoor’s casting as Lord Rama has been one of the most closely watched aspects of the project.
The actor is stepping into a role associated with one of the most recognised figures in Indian culture. The film therefore carries expectations that go beyond conventional Bollywood casting discussions.
The trailer has provided audiences with their first substantial glimpse of Kapoor as Rama, while Sai Pallavi appears as Sita and Yash plays Ravana.
Khanna’s comments focus particularly on the interpretation of Rama rather than simply the actor’s presence in the film.
He has argued that the character should not be presented primarily through action or physical spectacle, but should retain the qualities traditionally associated with Maryada Purushottam.
What Is Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana About?
Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is a large-scale cinematic adaptation of the ancient Indian epic.
The project is being made in two parts. The first part is scheduled for release around Diwali 2026, while the second part is planned for Diwali 2027, according to reports.
The film features a major ensemble cast, including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol, Ravie Dubey, Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, Rakul Preet Singh and Vivek Oberoi.
Ranbir Kapoor is reportedly playing both Lord Rama and Parshurama, while Yash essays Ravana.
The scale of the project has also attracted international attention because of its reported production budget and ambition.
Reported Rs 4,000 Crore Scale
The makers have described Ramayana as an extremely ambitious cinematic project.
According to reports, producer Namit Malhotra has discussed a combined budget of around $500 million, which has been widely reported as being more than Rs 4,000 crore for both parts.
The enormous reported budget is reflected in the film’s international ambitions, production design and reliance on visual effects.
However, the discussion surrounding Khanna’s comments demonstrates that technical scale alone is not the only factor audiences may consider when evaluating a mythological adaptation.
For a film based on the Ramayana, questions of characterisation, cultural context and emotional authenticity are likely to remain central to audience conversations.
Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman Join Forces
Another major attraction of the project is its music.
The film features music by Oscar-winning composers Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, bringing together two internationally recognised names.
Their involvement has further raised expectations around the film’s background score, themes and overall soundscape.
The combination of international production ambitions, Indian mythology, a major Bollywood cast and globally recognised musical talent has positioned Ramayana as one of the most ambitious Indian film projects currently in production.
Mukesh Khanna’s Comments Spark Debate
Khanna’s criticism has generated considerable discussion because he has previously been associated with iconic Indian television characters and has frequently spoken about the portrayal of mythological and superhero figures.
His comments essentially raise a creative question: Should a modern Ramayana adaptation prioritise spectacular action and VFX, or should it focus more heavily on the traditional characterisation of Lord Rama?
There is no single cinematic approach to adapting an ancient epic, and filmmakers can interpret historical, religious and literary material differently. In the case of Ramayana, however, the subject carries particular cultural significance, making creative choices especially visible to audiences.
Khanna’s remarks represent his own interpretation of what the character should look and feel like on screen.
Ramayana Release Date
The first part of Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is expected to arrive in theatres during Diwali 2026, with the second part planned for Diwali 2027.
The film’s release will likely become a major theatrical event because of its cast, scale and international ambitions.
With Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana, the project has already attracted substantial attention before its theatrical release.
