“Seven years were worth it”: Nitesh Tiwari reacts emotionally to Ramayana teaser response

Director Nitesh Tiwari turned emotional as the first glimpse of his upcoming film Ramayana was screened for fans and media in Mumbai. The teaser, which introduces Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, received strong applause from the audience present at the special screening.

The over two minute long clip was showcased at a theatre in South Mumbai, where both media representatives and fans gathered in large numbers. Many were seen queuing up early to catch the first visuals from the much discussed project. The response inside the auditorium was marked by loud applause soon after the teaser concluded.

Addressing the audience, Tiwari spoke about the long journey behind the film. “Is moment tak pohochne mei mujhe personally saat saal lag chuke hain. Filmmaking is a very speculative as well as a lonely process. Every moment of these seven years I have imagined this moment as to what the reaction would be when it finally comes out. And today seeing your reaction I feel those seven years were worth it,” he said, his voice breaking during the speech.

He further acknowledged the collective effort behind the project. “A lot of hard work of a lot of people has gone for the film to reach here. And I hope we will get your love in the same proportion,” he added, as the crowd responded with another round of applause.

The film also features Sai Pallavi, Yash, Ravi Dubey and Sunny Deol in key roles. Veteran actor Arun Govil, known for portraying Lord Ram in the television adaptation by Ramanand Sagar, will be seen playing Dasharath in this version.

The teaser offers a glimpse into Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Ram, presenting the character as one guided by duty and moral clarity. The narrative highlights qualities associated with Maryada Purushottama, focusing on restraint, compassion and responsibility.

Sharing his thoughts on the role, Ranbir said, “I don’t think I’m here to represent Rama. I’m here to learn from him. There is a simplicity and purity to him that is very rare, and trying to understand and imbibe that has been a deeply humbling experience.”

The first part of Ramayana is scheduled for release during Diwali.