Hema Malini reviews Ramayana, says it left her 'breathless with anticipation'

Actor and politician Hema Malini on Tuesday shared her review of Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana: Rise of Legend. The veteran actor revealed that she recently watched the film, admitting that she went in with "least expectations." Given how familiar the story of the Ramayana is, she did not expect a new adaptation to surprise her. However, she was pleasantly surprised by what she saw.Malini, who is also a BJP MP from Mathura, said the experience left her "breathless with anticipation." She added that she could see fellow audience members being transported to "another period" as the story unfolded on screen. The 78-year-old was particularly impressed by the film's visual presentation, special effects and what she described as the "apt casting" of its protagonists.Her note read, "Watched the latest version of Ramayan the Movie. As it was an epic, I went with least expectations as there is just so much one can tweak in a narration that even young kids are aware of. I was pleasantly surprised at the fabulous presentation, the mind-blowing special effects that left me breathless with anticipation. Add to this the apt casting of the protagonists. I could see the audience response, transported as they were to another period and made to participate in the events that unfolded. In fact, the use of the latest technical innovations made all the difference. A completely unique experience for the Indian audience indeed (sic)!"Ramayana: Rise of Legend features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, Yash as Ravana and Ravie Dubey as Lakshmana. The film explores Ravana's rise as the king of Lanka, Rama and Sita's marriage, their years in the forest during exile and the abduction of Sita. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the film has been performing strongly at the worldwide box office. It recorded the biggest post-Diwali box office haul for an Indian film, grossing Rs 663 crore worldwide in five days.Produced by Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Studios and Yash's Monster Mind Creations, Ramayana: Rise of Legend is planned as a two-part adaptation. The second instalment is scheduled to arrive in cinemas during Diwali 2028.- Ends