The highly anticipated theatrical release of Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, a 1993 Japanese-Indian anime film, has been postponed, as announced by the movie's distributors, Geek Pictures India, on Friday. Originally set to hit Indian theaters on October 18, the film will now debut on a later date, ensuring it reaches a significantly wider audience across the country.
The animated classic was set to be released in theaters with new Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu dubs, alongside its original English version, all presented in stunning 4K format. However, the decision to reschedule comes from Geek Pictures India’s desire to maximize the film's accessibility in a larger number of cinemas.
In a heartfelt message shared on their official Instagram page, Geek Pictures India expressed their gratitude towards the Indian audience for their overwhelming love and encouragement for the film. “In response to the incredible enthusiasm from fans nationwide, we have decided to adjust the film's release date from the previously scheduled 18th of October to a new date in the near future,” the company stated. This move reflects their commitment to ensuring that this iconic masterpiece reaches every corner of India.
Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, directed by Yugo Sako, Ram Mohan, and Koichi Sasaki, has left a significant mark on Indian pop culture. The film's earlier Hindi version featured notable voices, including Arun Govil as Ram, Namrata Sawhney as Sita, and the late Amrish Puri as Raavan, with veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha serving as the narrator.
Geek Pictures India emphasized that beyond being merely a film, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is a timeless tale that celebrates important themes such as relationships, the triumph of good over evil, and harmony between nature and living beings. “We are honoured to present this cultural artefact from Japan to its spiritual home. We will soon announce a new release date that aligns with our vision of widespread accessibility,” they stated.
Originally screened at the 24th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in 1993, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama did not receive a theatrical release at that time. However, it gained immense popularity among Indian audiences during its re-runs on television in the early 2000s.
As fans await the new release date, the anticipation for Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama continues to grow, highlighting its lasting impact on Indian culture and its enduring message that resonates across generations.