Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, the critically acclaimed 1999 Japanese-Indian anime film, is set to make its grand debut in Indian cinemas with updated language dubs in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu. Alongside the original English version, this landmark release will be the first of its kind for the film in India, as announced by the distributors on Saturday, September 28, 2024. The timeless tale is scheduled to hit the big screens on October 18 in stunning 4K format, promising an immersive experience for audiences across the nation.
Directed by an exceptional trio—Yugo Sako, Ram Mohan, and Koichi Sasaki—Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama retells the ancient Indian epic in a visually striking anime style. Geek Pictures India, in collaboration with AA Films and Excel Entertainment, will distribute this cult classic, ensuring its accessibility to a broader and more diverse audience.
“Our unwavering commitment to making this timeless film accessible to all has driven us to take on the responsibility of reviving this cherished epic. We have meticulously produced new language versions in Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi under the expert guidance of Shri V. Vijayendra Prasad, a revered figure in the industry,” Geek Pictures India stated in a press release.
Geek Pictures India also emphasized their dedication to preserving the film’s original essence. “While retaining the original English dialogue and maintaining the iconic, powerful visuals as they were initially conceived, we aim to offer a renewed cinematic experience. Our goal is to create a connection that resonates with children and families across India,” the statement continued.
In an effort to make the film more inclusive, the distributors revealed that the updated release would adhere to the latest guidelines set by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) of India. This includes enhanced accessibility features to cater to the hearing impaired, ensuring an inclusive viewing experience for all.
The Hindi version of the film boasts some iconic voice talents. Arun Govil, renowned for his role as Ram in the 1987 television series ‘Ramayan,’ lends his voice to the character of Rama.
. Namrata Sawhney gives life to the character of Sita, while the late legendary actor Amrish Puri voices the formidable antagonist, Raavan. In addition, veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha takes on the role of the narrator, guiding audiences through the epic journey.
Adding to the cultural richness of the film, its Hindi dub features music composed by the celebrated Vanraj Bhatia and lyrics by PK Mishra. Memorable songs like “Shri Raghuvar Ki Vaanar Sena,” “Janani Main Ramdoot Hanuman,” and “Jai Lankeshwar” are sure to evoke nostalgia among viewers who grew up watching the television broadcast of this animated marvel.
Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama initially premiered in India at the 24th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), earning critical acclaim but never receiving a full theatrical release. The film found a special place in the hearts of Indian audiences through reruns on various television channels during the early 2000s.
Geek Pictures India’s revival of this anime classic is expected to be a significant cultural event, bridging generational gaps and bringing the story of Prince Rama to a new audience. The strategic move to dub the film in multiple Indian languages underscores the timeless relevance of the Ramayana’s moral and ethical narratives in contemporary Indian society.
“The art of storytelling is a powerful tool that transcends borders and generations. Through this initiative, we aim to preserve the cultural heritage while also adapting it to the sensibilities of today’s audiences. This project is a labor of love, dedication, and immense respect for the original creators,” Krishna Mundhra, a spokesperson for Geek Pictures India, added.
As the release date approaches, excitement is building among fans and critics alike. Pre-release buzz suggests that Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is poised to become a milestone in Indian cinema, offering a perfect blend of traditional storytelling and modern technological advancements in animation.
In making this cherished epic more accessible and inclusive, the distributors hope to ensure that the legacy of Prince Rama endures for future generations. All eyes will be on Indian cinemas come October 18, as this timeless anime classic graces the silver screen in a whole new avatar.
