The ambitious ‘Ramayan’ project by Allu Mantena Media Ventures LLP, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, is facing significant hurdles. Recent investigations by Amar Ujala revealed that there has been no activity in any studios across Mumbai regarding the film’s shooting for the past three days. Sources indicate that all work on the film has ceased, and there are fears that the project might be shelved altogether.
Producer Madhu Mantena, who initiated the ‘Ramayan’ film project with Nitesh Tiwari in 2019, planned to create it in three parts. The production of the first part had started, but due to the lack of investors, the film hasn’t officially launched yet. Recently, it was reported that the film would now be made in two parts. Currently, Prime Focus and actor Yash, who is also a producer, are managing the project’s operations.
Amidst the chaos surrounding the film, Madhu Mantena has advised the current producers to halt any ongoing shooting to avoid legal disputes and further deterioration of relationships. Following this, Amar Ujala conducted a survey of Film City and other major studios and locations in Mumbai where ‘Ramayan’ might be filmed. It was confirmed that no shooting is taking place in any of these studios.
For the past several months, images and videos from look tests for the film ‘Ramayan’ were heavily promoted as the commencement of the film’s shooting. This was intended to attract both domestic and foreign investors. However, no major studio or international investor has shown interest in the project so far.
The budget for the ‘Ramayan’ film is estimated at 100 million USD (10 crore USD). Prime Focus has been in talks with some foreign companies regarding the film’s release, but success in its original language is as crucial as its international performance for recovering the investment. Due to the lack of investors, the official announcement of the cast and crew has been delayed. Initially, Kannada actor Yash was approached for the role of Ravana, but while he has become a co-producer, he has expressed his inability to play Ravana’s role.
