Ravie Dubey believes ‘Ramayana: Rise of a Legend’ could mark an important moment for Indian cinema‘s international ambitions. The actor, who plays Lord Lakshman in Nitesh Tiwari‘s epic, feels India’s mythology and cultural heritage deserve ambitious cinematic adaptations. He also believes filmmakers should present Indian stories to the world without compromising their cultural identity.In an interview with Variety India, Ravie Dubey discussed the film’s larger significance and the possibilities it could open up for the industry. He said India already possesses stories and characters with universal appeal. According to the actor, the challenge is to bring these narratives to the screen with the scale they deserve.
Ravie Dubey says Indian stories have global appeal
Ravie Dubey believes Indian cinema has reached a stage where its stories can find audiences beyond the country. He pointed to India’s extensive cultural heritage, mythology and philosophical traditions as sources of narratives that can connect with people internationally.“Absolutely. In fact, I believe India is already taking that leap of faith. The Indian story is global now. We possess thousands of years of extraordinary heritage, mythology, philosophy and characters whose ideas are universal. The world deserves to experience them and learn from them at the scale and with the cinematic ambition they deserve.”The actor feels that stories from Indian mythology should not be restricted to domestic audiences. Their themes and characters, he suggested, can appeal to viewers across different cultures when presented through ambitious filmmaking.
‘Ramayana’ could inspire a new cinematic movement
For Ravie Dubey, the project represents more than another big-budget production. He believes the approach taken by producer Namit Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari could encourage filmmakers to explore Indian stories on a larger scale.“What Namit (Malhotra) Sir and Nitesh Sir are attempting with ‘Ramayana,’ I believe, goes beyond one film. It has the potential to catalyse a cinematic movement in an unprecedented way, one in which Indian stories are told unapologetically from India, but mounted for the entire world.”He sees the film as a possible turning point in how Indian productions approach storytelling and international audiences. The actor believes such projects could create greater opportunities for culturally rooted narratives.
Actor says Indian identity should not be diluted
Ravie Dubey also spoke about the importance of retaining cultural authenticity while pursuing global recognition. He believes Indian filmmakers should not feel compelled to change the identity of their stories to appeal to international viewers.“We shouldn’t have to dilute our Indianness to become global. We need more event films. We need scale, ambition and courage. But most importantly, we need sincerity towards the stories we are telling. India has stories that can leave the world in awe. Now is the time to tell them that way.”
‘Ramayana: Rise of a Legend’: Cast and characters
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, ‘Ramayana: Rise of a Legend’ features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. Ravie Dubey portrays Lord Lakshman. The film has attracted attention for its scale, extensive production and retelling of the Hindu epic.
Film opens with Rs 64.85 cr net collection
‘Ramayana: Rise of a Legend’ began its theatrical run with an India net collection of Rs 64.85 cr on Day 1, according to Sacnilk. Its domestic gross reached Rs 77.50 cr across five languages. The opening-day figures were recorded across approximately 25,200 shows.However, the debut remained below the Rs 100 cr-plus opening that trade observers had reportedly anticipated. This came despite strong pre-release interest and advance bookings worth Rs 50 cr. The film’s performance over the following days will provide a clearer picture of its box-office trajectory.
