Re-release of ‘Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama’ Marks the End of a 31-year Ban

After a lengthy 31-year ban, the Indo-Japanese animated film ‘Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama’ is set to make a significant return to Indian theatres on October 18, 2024. This marks the first time the film will be screened in Indian cinemas, allowing audiences to experience a remastered version of this culturally significant animation.

The film, originally released in the nineties, faced a ban in India due to its Japanese production and the portrayal of Hindu gods during a volatile political period following the Babri Masjid riots in 1992. Concerns arose about the reception of this production within India’s religious communities. Despite this, the film garnered international recognition, debuting to acclaim at the International Film Festival of India in 1993.

Directed by Koichi Sasaki and Ram Mohan, with musical compositions by Vanraj Bhatia, the film stands as a rare co-production between India and Japan. It is noteworthy for its contribution from screenwriter V. Vijayendra Prasad, celebrated for his work on films like ‘Baahubali‘ and ‘RRR‘.

Geek Pictures India has announced that the film will be re-released in four languages: Hindi, English, Tamil, and Telugu, to coincide with the festive seasons of Dussehra and Diwali. Arjun Aggarwal, co-founder of Geek Pictures India, expressed his enthusiasm, stating that the film “will strike a chord with audiences across all regions and age groups” due to its dynamic portrayal of the epic tale.

‘Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama’ retells the story of Prince Rama, an incarnation of the god Vishnu, as he undertakes a quest to rescue his wife, Sita, from the demon king Ravana. The film captures key moments from the epic, including Rama’s exile, Sita’s abduction, Hanuman’s devotion, and the climactic battle between Rama and Ravana. This version combines Indian mythology with Japanese anime, offering a unique cinematic experience with vibrant animation and a score blending Indian and Japanese elements.

The movie’s re-entry into theatres represents a significant moment for cross-cultural collaborations, celebrating the enduring legacy of the Ramayana while introducing the epic to broader international audiences. Despite initial controversies, the film remains a landmark in animated storytelling, praised for its hand-drawn animation and engaging narrative.