Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 5: As anticipation builds for Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana, lyricist and writer Manoj Muntashir has urged audiences not to compare the upcoming epic with Adipurush, admitting that the 2024 film failed to meet expectations.

Speaking to the media in Mumbai on Tuesday, Muntashir wished the makers of Ramayana success and praised actor Yash, who plays Ravana in the film.

"Yash is a very good actor, and there is no doubt in this. My best wishes will be with every film that brings our story to the world stage. I have a lot of best wishes for Ramayana," he said.

Addressing comparisons between the two films, Muntashir acknowledged the shortcomings of Adipurush.

"It is better not to compare Ramayana with Adipurush. There should be no shame in admitting that Adipurush couldn't meet the expectations. People associated with the film made it with a lot of effort, but it was a failed attempt," he said.

He, however, expressed pride in the film's soundtrack.

"I am very proud that Adipurush's music has reached the people. The film's music is a big hit. I hope that the music of Ramayana matches the music of Adipurush and goes beyond that," he added.

Directed by Om Raut, Adipurush featured Prabhas as Lord Rama, Kriti Sanon as Sita and Saif Ali Khan as Ravana. Mounted on a reported budget of Rs 550 crore, the film received poor reviews and underperformed at the box office. It also faced widespread criticism over its dialogues and portrayal of characters from the epic.

The recently released trailer of Ramayana introduces Yash as Ravana, alongside Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Ravie Dubey as Lakshmana and Arun Govil as King Dasharatha. Sunny Deol will portray Lord Hanuman.

The film's music has been composed by Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman. Ramayana: Part 1 is slated for release during Diwali 2026, while Ramayana: Part 2 is expected to hit theatres during Diwali 2027.