Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently shared a personal reflection on her experience with Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, an iconic Japanese animated film based on the ancient Indian epic Ramayana. The film is set to make its reappearance on the big screen on Sunday, and Sitharaman took the opportunity to revisit her memories of watching the movie in 1993, which she fondly recalled in a post on her official X (formerly Twitter) handle. She reminisced about the film’s screening at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in 1993, calling it a “beautiful animated Ramayana.”
Sitharaman expressed her joy at the upcoming re-release of the film, noting that it will be shown in theaters once again, allowing new audiences to experience the magical story of Prince Rama and his journey. She also shared the trailer of the film with her followers, generating excitement for the upcoming release. The minister's posts have sparked considerable interest online, with many fans expressing their enthusiasm for the film's return to cinemas. One user declared, “Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is a must-watch for all,” while another person raised the question of why the film was not released on big screens in 1993. This comment highlights the movie's historical significance and the fact that it remained a relatively niche offering during its initial release.
Additionally, a third user remarked on the importance of promoting Indian culture globally, asserting, “Should always promote our culture. India’s growth is possible when we return to our roots.” This sentiment echoes the underlying theme of the film, which brings the rich cultural heritage of India to the forefront, bridging the gap between traditional Indian values and modern artistic expression.
Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is a joint Indian-Japanese production that brings the timeless tale of the Ramayana to life through stunning animation. The film was co-produced by India and Japan and was directed by renowned animators Yugo Sako and Koichi Sasaki, with the legendary Indian animator Ram Mohan also contributing to the project. The film's first release in 1993 marked a significant milestone in cross-cultural collaboration, with the film featuring an English-dubbed version voiced by prominent actors, including Nikhil Kapoor, Rael Padamsee, Uday Mathan, Mishal Varma, and Noel Godin.
The movie's re-release in theaters comes at a time when both India and Japan continue to celebrate and deepen their cultural ties. With its stunning animation and captivating storytelling, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama brings forth the teachings of the Ramayana, exploring themes of duty, righteousness, and devotion. It tells the story of the heroic Prince Rama, his wife Sita, and his unwavering quest to rescue her from the demon king Ravana.
For many, the film holds deep nostalgic value, and its re-release provides an opportunity to relive the magic of this cultural masterpiece. The film’s themes resonate strongly within the Indian context, but it also offers global audiences an introduction to one of the oldest and most revered epics in world literature. Sitharaman’s posts reflect the importance of such cultural expressions in strengthening national pride and promoting shared values across borders.
Additionally, the re-release will be available in both Hindi and Telugu, making it accessible to a broader audience across India. By reaching diverse linguistic groups, the re-release is expected to further fuel interest in the film and ignite meaningful conversations about the richness of Indian mythology.
The enduring appeal of Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama lies not only in its animation but also in its ability to convey the timeless message of the Ramayana, transcending generations and geographical boundaries. As the film returns to theaters, it promises to introduce a new generation of viewers to the epic tale of Prince Rama and the moral teachings that it encapsulates. For older generations who fondly remember the film’s original release, the upcoming re-release is a chance to pass on the story to their children and grandchildren, making it an important cultural event. This re-release is more than just a nostalgic return; it represents a reaffirmation of the cultural values that continue to shape India’s identity on the global stage.
