TV serial to blockbuster: How Ramayana frees Bollywood from polarisation politics

The Hindi film industry recently released a new movie based on the Ramayana, following the earlier flop film Adipurush. This latest retelling, starring Ranbir Kapoor as Ram and Yash as Ravana, diverges from divisive Bollywood tropes and avoids political influences, which have been present in many historical and mythological movies in recent years.

Nitesh Tiwari directed this film, which begins with Asuras depicted as an underclass, with Ravana's mother criticizing his indulgence in music while his people suffer. Ravana travels to the mountains for penance and gains the power to rule Lanka, ultimately defeating Indra. The film then follows Ram, played by Ranbir Kapoor, as he grows up to be a great warrior while brooding over his fate.

After being exiled with his wife Sita (Sai Pallavi) and brother Lakshman (Arun Govil), Ravana's sister Surpanakha falls for Ram and impersonates Sita, leading to her nose being cut off by Lakshman. This version of Surpanakha is portrayed as a woman spurned, who reasons with Ram that Dashrath also had three wives. Sita also warns Lakshman about the consequences of their actions.

The film explores the legend of Dashanan, containing 10 heads, when Ravana contemplates his revenge. The character of Ravana is depicted as both cruel and proud, as well as feeling deeply wounded by the Asuras not receiving the respect they deserve. This film, part 1 of the saga, ends with Ravana abducting Sita, killing Jatayu, and leaving Ram distraught.

The movie maintains a focus on a noble protagonist and a villain carrying wounds of disgrace, without engaging in political discourse or dog whistles.