AR Rahman calls collaboration with Hans Zimmer for Ramayana soundtrack 'epic'

The buzz around Ramayana has only grown stronger ever since the teaser of Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious mythological drama was unveiled. Starring Ranbir Kapoor in the lead, the two-part cinematic spectacle is already being hailed as one of the costliest and most ambitious projects in Indian cinema, with reports suggesting that the film is being mounted on a staggering budget of nearly Rs 4000 crore. Amid the excitement, music maestro AR Rahman has now opened up about collaborating with celebrated German composer Hans Zimmer for the film’s soundtrack, calling it an “epic collaboration.”

AR Rahman praises Hans Zimmer

Speaking to Faridoon Shahryar in a recent interview, Rahman shared his thoughts on teaming up with Zimmer, whose body of work has earned him two Academy Awards and four Grammy wins. “I think it’s an epic collaboration. That too, to do a film which is our own, from our country and culture. Bringing him as almost like an ambassador to the world, to non-Indians,” Rahman said. The Oscar-winning composer further explained how Zimmer’s global reputation could draw international attention towards the film. “His name is going to make many people watch the movie definitely. At least a certain section is going to watch what has Hans Zimmer done in an Indian movie,” he added. Rahman also praised Zimmer’s artistic vision and influence over generations of musicians. “He has also worn many hats. He is a true artiste who thinks so differently than other people. He set a standard while inspiring generations. To work with him is definitely a great honour. One of India’s greatest movies,” he shared.

‘I’ve never seen anything like it in the world’

Rahman also spoke about his experience of watching Ramayana’s trailer in 3D and expressed admiration for the film’s scale and technological brilliance. “It is one of the biggest films of my career. Not only the story, we all know the story, and how we respect it, but the technology. Just even watching the trailer on 3D is incredible. I’ve never seen anything of Indian or in the whole world as a piece of art. It’s so incredible on 3D, the music and sound,” he said. Produced by Namit Malhotra and Yash under Prime Focus Studios and Monster Mind Creations, the film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as Ravana. The ensemble cast also includes Sunny Deol, Lara Dutta and Ravi Dubey. Ramayana will release in two parts, with the first installment arriving in theatres on Diwali 2026, followed by Part 2 on Diwali 2027.