The much-awaited ‘Ramayana’, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash, has finally arrived in theatres worldwide. While the film has generated considerable buzz for its scale, casting and visual effects, its music has now come under scrutiny from an actor who is closely associated with the epic.

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Sunil Lahri, best remembered for playing Lakshman in Ramanand Sagar’s television classic ‘Ramayan’ (1987-88), has shared his initial reaction to Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious adaptation. Although he is yet to watch the film, the actor admitted that the music he heard in its trailer left him somewhat disappointed.

In a video message shared on Instagram, Lahri praised director Nitesh Tiwari and expressed confidence in the team's efforts. However, he felt the music could have done more to reflect the cultural and geographical identity of the places central to the Ramayana.

What did Sunil Lahri say about ‘Ramayana’ music?

Speaking about his expectations from the soundtrack, Lahri said, "Mujhe vishwas hai... Nitesh ji ek bohot hi acche director hai, pehle unhone achhi filmein banayi hai. Sangeet bohot ehem bhoomika nibhata hai, ek hisaab se woh backbone hota hai. Iss film ke jo bhi sangeet maine sunna hai, usmein kuch gaanon ne mujhe thoda sa disappoint kiya."

Explaining his reservations, the actor said he felt the songs were missing the local flavour of Ayodhya and Mithila. According to him, music plays a crucial role in establishing the emotional and cultural world of a film, particularly one based on an epic as deeply rooted in Indian traditions as the Ramayana.

Lahri was also careful to clarify that he was not speaking as a music expert but simply sharing his perspective as a listener.

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Despite his reservations, the actor wished the film success and hoped it would perform well at the box office. He pointed out that a project of this scale supports the livelihoods of several people, making its success important for everyone associated with it.

Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman compose music for ‘Ramayana’

Interestingly, the music and background score of ‘Ramayana’ bring together two internationally acclaimed composers, Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman. The collaboration marks the first time the two have joined forces on a film soundtrack.

However, the musical choices have not been without criticism. Even before its theatrical release, the film's songs and promotional tracks had triggered conversations on social media.
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Most recently, ‘Mangal Rang’ faced backlash from sections of listeners who felt that its musical influences leaned towards Sufi and Islamic Qawwali traditions. The debate added to the wider discussion around the music of the mythological epic.

‘Ramayana’ is planned as a two-part cinematic adaptation. The first instalment arrived in theatres on November 5, ahead of Diwali, while the second part is scheduled for a Diwali 2028 release.