New Delhi: The trailer of ‘Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha’ has been released, and the mythological film has already become a talking point on social media. Starring Anjali Arora as Mata Sita, Dev Sharma as Lord Ram and Rajniesh Duggall as Ravana, the film brings several key episodes from the Ramayana to the big screen.

However, instead of receiving an entirely positive response, the trailer has triggered criticism from a section of viewers, particularly over the casting, visual effects and overall presentation.

Anjali Arora Plays Sita, Dev Sharma as Lord Ram

The approximately 2-minute-43-second trailer gives glimpses of some of the most important episodes from the Ramayana.

It begins with Ravana approaching Sita during her exile. The trailer then moves through the Lakshman Rekha episode, Sita's abduction, her captivity in Lanka, Hanuman's arrival in Lanka and the preparations for the battle against Ravana.

Anjali Arora appears as Sita, while Dev Sharma portrays Lord Ram. Rajniesh Duggall takes on the role of Ravana.

Social Media Users Question the VFX and Casting

The trailer has received a mixed response online. While some viewers are curious about the film, others have criticised its visual effects and casting.

One user compared the look of the golden Lanka in the trailer to a Windows XP screen saver, while another questioned the casting choices.

Some comments went even further, with one viewer writing, “Fear God.” Others compared the film's VFX with those of older television shows and questioned whether the film would be able to match the scale and visual quality audiences now expect from mythological cinema.

Comparison With Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘Ramayana’

The timing of the film's release has also added to the discussion. Ranbir Kapoor's much-awaited ‘Ramayana’ has already generated significant anticipation among audiences.

As a result, viewers have started comparing the two projects, particularly in terms of casting, visual effects, production scale and presentation of the epic story.

However, the real comparison will only become possible once both films are available to audiences.

Trailer Showcases Major Ramayana Episodes

The trailer focuses on several familiar portions of the epic, including Sita's abduction, Hanuman's meeting with Sita, Ravana's arrogance and the eventual preparations for the war.

Rajniesh Duggall's Ravana is presented as a powerful and imposing character, while Dev Sharma's Lord Ram is shown speaking about truth, righteousness and dharma.

The trailer clearly attempts to give the film a larger-than-life mythological treatment, although its execution has become a major talking point even before the film's theatrical release.

When Will ‘Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha’ Release?

Directed by Abhishek Singh, the film is produced by Prakash Mahobiya and Sanjay Bundela.

‘Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha’ is scheduled to release in cinemas across India on September 25, 2026. The film will be released in Hindi and Chhattisgarhi.

With the trailer already generating strong reactions online, the bigger question now is whether the film can turn the pre-release debate into audience interest once it reaches theatres.