Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan to Siya Ke Ram: Best Ramayan Shows to Watch Before Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana Movie

The buzz around Ranbir Kapoor playing Lord Ram in the upcoming Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has brought the epic back into mainstream conversation. With reports of a grand cinematic universe, high-end VFX, and a powerful cast, expectations are sky-high.

But long before this film hits theatres, Indian television has already given us some unforgettable versions of the Ramayan. These shows didn’t just narrate a mythological story—they became a part of everyday life, shaping faith, values, and cultural identity.

If you want to revisit the epic before watching it on the big screen, here are the top 7 Ramayan-based television serials that deserve your time.

1: Ramayan (1987) – The Benchmark That Still Stands Tall

The iconic Ramayan by Ramanand Sagar is still considered the most authentic adaptation of the epic.

This wasn’t just a show—it was an emotion. People would gather in front of their TVs every Sunday morning, often treating the viewing as a spiritual experience. The simplicity of storytelling and powerful performances by Arun Govil and Dipika Chikhlia made it unforgettable.

Even today, it remains the first recommendation for anyone wanting to understand the Ramayan in its purest form.

2: Ramayan (2008) – A Modern Take with Traditional Roots

The Ramayan, produced by Anand Sagar, brought the epic back to television with updated visuals and a polished narrative.

It stayed loyal to the core story while improving production quality. The characters felt more stylized, and the pacing suited modern audiences.

This version is ideal if you want something that respects tradition but feels slightly more contemporary.

3: Siya Ke Ram (2015) – The Story Through Sita’s Eyes

Siya Ke Ram, created by Nikhil Sinha, stands out for its unique perspective.

Instead of focusing solely on Ram, this show tells the story from Sita’s point of view. It dives deeper into her strength, struggles, and individuality—something rarely explored in earlier adaptations.

With grand visuals and layered storytelling, it feels almost cinematic in parts.

4: Srimad Ramayana – 2024

Srimad Ramayana is a visually rich 2024 adaptation that brings a cinematic touch to the epic. Starring Sujay Reu as Ram and Prachi Bansal as Sita, the show focuses on strong visuals, faster pacing, and emotional storytelling. While it may not match the depth of classic versions, it works well for today’s audience. It’s a great pick if you want a modern, engaging version of the Ramayan before watching Ranbir Kapoor’s upcoming Ramayana.

5: Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman (2015) – Devotion at Its Core

Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman focuses on Lord Hanuman, one of the most beloved characters in the Ramayan.

Through his journey, viewers experience the story of Ram in a more action-driven and devotional format. The show balances mythology with inspiration, making it especially popular among younger audiences.

It’s a great pick if you enjoy character-driven storytelling.

6: Ram Siya Ke Luv Kush (2019) – The Untold Chapters

Ram Siya Ke Luv Kush takes the story forward after Ram and Sita’s return to Ayodhya.

It explores the lives of their sons, Luv and Kush, and how they carry forward the legacy of Ram. The show sheds light on lesser-known parts of the epic, offering a fresh continuation.

For those who think the story ends with the return to Ayodhya, this serial adds a new dimension.

7: Jai Hanuman (1997) – A Nostalgic Classic

Jai Hanuman is another beloved show that intertwines the story of Hanuman with the Ramayan.

It combines devotion, storytelling, and mythology in a way that resonates strongly with audiences who grew up in the 90s. While it may not have modern visuals, its emotional connect is undeniable.

Final Thoughts

The Ramayan is not just a story—it’s a living tradition that continues to evolve with time. From the simplicity of Ramanand Sagar’s classic to the grandeur of modern adaptations, every version has something unique to offer.

As the anticipation builds for Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana, this is the perfect moment to revisit these iconic television serials. Whether you’re watching for devotion, nostalgia, or storytelling, each of these shows brings you closer to the essence of Lord Ram’s journey.

So before the curtains rise in theatres, take a step back into the world of television—because that’s where the Ramayan truly found its home.