The much-anticipated remastered version of the classic anime film, Ramayana, has crossed ₹2.8 crore at the box office since its release on January 20, 2023. This revival of the beloved story brings with it new dubs and enhanced visuals, drawing attention from fans across the nation.
Originally slated for release on October 18, 2022, the film's debut was delayed as licensor Tem Co. aimed to make it accessible to more cinemas. According to sources, the remastered version will not feature the original 1997 Hindi and Tamil dubs due to the loss of master audio data. Instead, the new dubs are based on the 1993 English version of the film, ensuring viewers can still enjoy the vibrant storytelling steeped in Indian culture.
This anime adaptation tells the ancient tale of Prince Rama, who, after being unjustly banished, faces the demon king Ravana to rescue his wife, Sita. The narrative is not only rich with adventure but deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, making it resonate with audiences both young and old. Yugo Sako directed the film, ensuring it remained faithful to the essence of the original story, with music composed by Vanraj Bhatia and characters brought to life by Moriyasu Taniguchi's designs.
The film's significance was heightened by its timely release during the 70th anniversary of India-Japan diplomatic relations. Special screenings were held at events like Japan Habba and at the Embassy of India in Tokyo as early as February and March of 2022, celebrating the long-standing cultural connections between the two nations.
Geek Pictures, responsible for the film's distribution, commented on the strategic release delay, stating, “The licensors delayed the film to make it accessible in a significantly greater number of cinemas.” This approach not only broadened its audience reach but also breathed new life and relevance to the classic tale.
Ever since the Ramayana anime premiered back in 1992—the 40th anniversary of India-Japan relations—it has been cherished by generations. Its airing on platforms like Cartoon Network introduced the epic story to new viewers, reinforcing its status as a cultural touchstone.
The remastered version offers everyone—from longtime fans to newcomers—the chance to experience this legendary adventure with enhanced audio and visuals. Many have come out to support the film, noting how it beautifully captures the struggles of good versus evil, making it relevant to audiences today.
The film also features acclaimed talents such as Satoshi Matsuoka as the art director and Kazuyuki Kobayashi as the animation director, contributing to the film's exceptional production quality.
With all these elements combined, the Ramayana anime film stands as more than just a piece of cinema; it reflects the richness of Indian mythology and the enduring appeal of its stories. The box office success and the thoughtful remastering signal not only nostalgia for past audiences but also excitement for future generations.
Overall, the movie's triumphant return reaffirms the importance of cultural preservation and adaptation, allowing timeless narratives to find new life and audiences across different platforms and formats.