Revisiting the Epic: Must-Watch Ramayana Adaptations That Captured Our Hearts

MUMBAI: For the first time in 31 years, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama will be re-released in cinemas, reviving the timeless epic and continuing the legacy of Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan, which became a global sensation. Decades later, Sagar’s Ramayan remains a cultural landmark, evoking immense nostalgia and proving its timeless appeal. It reshaped how Indian mythology is portrayed, inspiring creators and captivating generations of viewers. While Ramayan still enchants audiences, here is a list of other series and films that have also touched hearts with unique interpretations of the epic, making them worthy of a watch as they carry forward this beloved tale.

Ramanand Sagar's  Ramayan
Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan - became a cultural landmark in Indian television, captivating audiences from 1987 to 1988 on DD National. Based on the ancient epic Ramayana, the show resonated with viewers through its powerful storytelling, emotional depth, and authentic portrayal of iconic characters. Directed and produced by Ramanand Sagar, and starring Arun Govil as Ram, Deepika Chikhalia as Sita and Sunil Lahri as Lakshman, it remained true to the essence of the epic, crossing social and cultural boundaries. At its peak, Ramayan was the most-watched television series globally, leaving a lasting legacy in mythological programming. The show is going to air once again on Shemaroo TV starting from the 3rd of October Monday to Sunday 8 PM.

Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama
Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama followed Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan in bringing the epic Ramayana to life, this time through an India-Japan collaboration. While Ramanand Sagar's TV series captivated audiences with live action, the 1993 anime film offered a fresh visual approach, using animation to reach a global audience. The adaptation stayed true to the epic’s essence, portraying Prince Ram’s valor and moral lessons. Screened at international festivals, the anime expanded Ramayana 's reach, further solidifying its cultural and media legacy.

Siya Ke Ram
Siya Ke Ram inspired and innovated from the 1987 epic by reinterpreting the classic epic in a fresh perspective—through the eyes of Devi Sita. Produced by Nikhil Sinha, this series highlights Sita's experiences and emotions, offering a deeper understanding of her character, much like Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan emphasized the valor of Lord Rama. Both series remain faithful to the essence of the Ramayan, enriching the narrative and expanding its cultural resonance in contemporary Indian television.

Ramayan: Sabke Jeevan Ka Aadhar
Ramayan - Jeevan ka Aadhar follows in the footsteps of Ramanand Sagar's iconic Ramayan by remaking the beloved epic for a contemporary audience while preserving its core narrative. This Hindi mythological drama aims to entertain viewers of all ages, much like Ramanand Sagar’s original series did. Starring Gagan Malik as Lord Rama and Neha Sargam as Sita, the show seeks to capture the essence of the Ramayan while offering fresh interpretations of its characters and themes for today's viewers.

Shrimad Ramayan
Shrimad Ramayan takes after Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan by once again bringing the epic story of Lord Rama to the screen. Produced by Siddharth Kumar Tewary, this series, like Sagar’s, emphasises the values, struggles, and divine mission of Lord Rama, resonating with audiences across generations. Starring Sujay Reu as Rama and Prachi Bansal as Sita, the show retains the spiritual essence of the Ramayana while introducing a visually enhanced narrative for contemporary viewers, much like Sagar’s iconic adaptation.

Ramayana: The Epic 
Ramayana: The Epic followed in the footsteps of Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan by bringing the timeless epic to modern audiences through animation. Directed by Chetan Desai, the 2010 film stayed faithful to the core narrative of Lord Rama’s journey, his battles against evil, and his rescue of Sita. Much like Sagar’s adaptation, this film highlighted the moral and spiritual lessons of the Ramayana while using cutting-edge animation to appeal to a younger, visually-driven audience.