Ranbir Kapoor and MrBeast — one of the world's biggest YouTube creators — shared the stage at a high-profile promotional event in Mumbai on 26 September 2026 for director Nitesh Tiwari's ambitious two-part mythological epic 'Ramayana', generating a moment that quickly captured public attention online.

The 'Jai Shree Ram' Moment

During the event, a member of the paparazzi greeted MrBeast with 'Jai Shri Ram', leaving the American YouTuber visibly unsure of how to respond. Stepping in, Ranbir Kapoor — who plays Lord Rama in the film — gently prompted MrBeast to repeat the chant. The YouTuber obliged, chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' to an enthusiastic reception from those present.

The candid exchange underscored the film's ambition to introduce Indian mythology and culture to a global audience, with MrBeast's presence at the event signalling the production's international outreach.

Ranbir on Dharma and Lord Rama

Ranbir elaborated on the film's philosophical core during the event, explaining the significance of the character he is set to portray. He said, 'Ramayana and Shri Ram are deeply etched in our subconscious mind. Lord Rama never tried to be a hero; he is called Maryada Purushottam, which means ideal man. He was born as a prince and could have had everything, but he sacrificed it all to fulfil his father's promise and his duties. There is a term called Dharma, which means duties. He is the perfect man, and I hope through this film, you could have a brief introduction to our culture and history.'

Ranbir also lifted a Shiv Dhanush during the event, offered prayers, and placed it back — a symbolic gesture consistent with the film's devotional tone.

Media Boycott Over Delay

The event was not without friction. It ran several hours behind schedule, prompting a section of the media in attendance to reportedly boycott the proceedings in protest. The delay drew attention amid the otherwise celebratory atmosphere of the launch.

Cast and Release Timeline

The ensemble cast for 'Ramayana' is among the most star-studded in Indian cinema in recent years. Alongside Ranbir as Lord Rama, the film features Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari, Arun Govil as King Dashrath, Kunal Kapoor as Lord Indra, and Adinath Kothare as Bharat.

The first part of the two-film franchise is scheduled for a theatrical release on 9 November 2026, coinciding with Diwali. The second part, still in production, is slated for 2027. With a massive star cast, a mythological canvas, and now global visibility through MrBeast's presence, 'Ramayana' arrives as one of Indian cinema's most anticipated releases in years.