Ramayana Unveils Jatayu’s First Look, Anupam Kher to Voice the Brave Bird

Mumbai, Oct. 14: The makers of Ramayana have unveiled a new character poster introducing Jatayu, the courageous bird from the ancient Indian epic, with veteran actor Anupam Kher lending his voice to the revered character. Titled The Wings of Dharma, the latest promotional reveal highlights the bird’s determination to stand against injustice, building anticipation for the film’s theatrical release next month.

The poster was released on October 13 as part of the production team’s continuing campaign to introduce audiences to important characters from the epic. It features a close up of Jatayu’s intense gaze alongside a second visual showing the majestic bird with his wings spread wide.

The makers accompanied the images with a message emphasising courage, sacrifice and the decision to stand up for what is right, even when the opponent appears overwhelmingly powerful.

Kher’s association with Jatayu adds another experienced performer to the film’s ensemble. Known for his extensive work across Hindi cinema, television and theatre, the actor brings a recognisable voice to a character whose brief but consequential appearance plays a crucial role in the larger narrative.

Jatayu’s role in the Ramayana

Jatayu occupies an important place in the Ramayana because of his attempt to rescue Sita after Ravana abducts her. Despite knowing that he is confronting a formidable adversary, the bird challenges Ravana in an effort to prevent him from taking Sita away.

His struggle is ultimately unsuccessful, but his intervention demonstrates extraordinary courage and loyalty. Jatayu’s actions also help Rama learn about the circumstances surrounding Sita’s abduction, making the character significant to the progression of the story.

The episode has long been remembered for its themes of duty, selflessness and moral responsibility. Jatayu does not act because victory is guaranteed; instead, he intervenes because he believes that protecting someone in danger is the right thing to do.

The new poster appears to draw on these qualities, presenting the character as a symbol of resistance against wrongdoing. The title The Wings of Dharma reinforces the association between Jatayu’s actions and the epic’s broader emphasis on righteousness.

For audiences familiar with the traditional narrative, the character’s introduction offers a glimpse of how the filmmakers intend to portray this pivotal episode on screen.

Anupam Kher joins the film’s character ensemble

Kher’s contribution is particularly significant because Jatayu’s character relies on voice performance rather than a conventional live-action portrayal by the actor. Vocal expression can communicate the character’s determination, pain and resolve while complementing the visual presentation of the mythical bird.

The makers have confirmed Kher’s involvement through the character reveal. Further details about the recording process, the extent of the character’s screen time and the precise approach to the performance have not been fully disclosed.

The casting also demonstrates the production’s approach of bringing experienced performers into important supporting roles. While the central narrative follows Rama, Sita and the conflict with Ravana, characters such as Jatayu help establish the emotional and moral stakes of the story.

The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the project is being developed as a two-part cinematic adaptation.

The principal cast has generated considerable interest because the film brings together prominent performers from different areas of Indian cinema. Its scale and the familiar source material have also made character introductions an important part of the publicity campaign.

A two-part cinematic adaptation

Ramayana is being produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios in collaboration with DNEG and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations. The production is planned as a two-part epic, allowing the filmmakers to explore the narrative across separate instalments.

The first part is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on November 5, 2026. The second instalment is planned for release during Diwali 2027.

The film is set to reach audiences in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, with an IMAX release also planned. The multilingual strategy reflects the enduring popularity of the Ramayana across different regions and linguistic traditions.

The story has been adapted repeatedly for theatre, television, literature and cinema. Each interpretation faces the challenge of presenting a familiar narrative while offering a distinctive visual and emotional experience.

For a production of this scale, character design, performances, music, visual effects and storytelling will all influence how audiences respond to the finished film. Jatayu’s introduction provides an early indication of the attention being given to figures beyond the central cast.

Character posters build anticipation ahead of release

The Jatayu reveal forms part of a wider effort to introduce the film’s key characters before its theatrical debut. Such campaigns allow audiences to become familiar with the visual interpretation of figures they may already know from religious texts, regional traditions and previous screen adaptations.

In this case, the poster focuses on Jatayu’s appearance and the symbolism associated with his actions. Its emphasis on the bird’s intense gaze and expansive wings conveys strength and readiness for confrontation.

The campaign also gives the makers an opportunity to highlight supporting characters whose contributions are essential to the epic but may receive less attention than its central heroes and antagonist.

With the release approaching, the production’s promotional activity is expected to remain a major point of interest for cinema audiences. Advance bookings for the first part are scheduled to open on October 20, according to reports.

The eventual response will depend on the film itself, including its narrative treatment, performances and technical presentation. The familiar story provides a strong foundation, but the makers must still translate its emotional depth into an engaging theatrical experience.

Why Jatayu remains a powerful character

Jatayu’s appeal extends beyond his role as a supporting figure in the epic. His decision to confront Ravana despite the unequal balance of power makes him an enduring representation of moral courage.

His actions underline the idea that responsibility is not limited to those who possess authority or strength. Even when success appears unlikely, an individual can choose to intervene when another person is threatened.

That theme gives the character relevance beyond the immediate events of the story. It also explains why Jatayu’s episode continues to resonate with audiences familiar with the Ramayana.

By placing the character at the centre of its latest poster, the film’s promotional campaign draws attention to this important dimension of the narrative.

As the November 5 release date approaches, the makers are gradually revealing more of their interpretation of the epic’s central and supporting figures. Kher’s voice performance as Jatayu adds another notable element to the production, while the new poster highlights the courage and sacrifice associated with the character.

The film’s portrayal of the bird’s confrontation with Ravana will be one of the moments audiences look forward to when Ramayana: Part One reaches cinemas.