Watch Sita Ramam

Sita Ramam is a poignant Indian Telugu-language period romantic drama directed by Hanu Raghavapudi and produced by Vyjayanthi Movies and Swapna Cinema. Set against the backdrop of a bygone era, the film unfolds a timeless tale of love, loss, and longing through the lives of its protagonists, played by Dulquer Salmaan, Mrunal Thakur, and Rashmika Mandanna. The movie marks Mrunal Thakur's debut in Telugu cinema and is set both in the past and in a contemporary setting, bridging generations and nations with its gripping narrative.

Dulquer Salmaan plays Lieutenant Ram, an orphan serving in the Indian Army. Ram's life is devoid of personal attachments, but he is deeply rooted in his sense of duty and his love for his country. Despite the lack of family ties, he is beloved by his peers for his charismatic personality and his commitment as a soldier. Mrunal Thakur portrays Sita Mahalakshmi, a character shrouded in mystery yet at the core of the narrative, weaving the emotional fabric that connects the different timelines within the story.

Intricately woven into the narrative is the character played by Rashmika Mandanna, who becomes entwined in Ram and Sita's journey in a role that is crucial to the unfolding of the central plot. As the story progresses, their paths intersect in ways that are both complex and heartwarming, with Rashmika's role serving as a bridge between the past and the present.

The film takes place in the early 1960s, amidst the scenic valleys and enchanting locales of Kashmir, with juxtapositions to the present day, seamlessly transitioning between the lush visuals of the past and contemporary times. This enables the audience to travel through time and witness the central love story in both historical and modern contexts.

Sita Ramam is imbued with enchanting music that elevates the emotional quotient of the film. The soundtrack, composed by Vishal Chandrasekhar, provides a soulful accompaniment to the on-screen romance, embedding itself into the narrative and playing a significant role in enhancing the film's overall aesthetic and mood.

One of the key themes explored in the film is the power of love letters in an age where digital communication did not exist. The hand-written letters carry the profound expressions of love and longing, acting as the primary medium through which the characters develop deep emotional bonds despite never having met. The art of letter writing and the patience inherent in waiting for a response become a symbol of a pure and patient form of love that resonates with both the characters and the audience.

The film also takes a significant detour into the realities of war, showcasing the impact of conflict on individuals and their loved ones. Aspects of patriotism, sacrifice, and the conflicts at the Indo-Pak border are woven into the storyline, providing a stoic backdrop to the blossoming romance and heightening the stakes for the characters involved.

Cinematography is another standout aspect of Sita Ramam, with PS Vinod and Shreyaas Krishna capturing the aesthetic essence of the different eras portrayed in the film. The cinematography contributes to the storytelling by dramatically highlighting the emotions of love and war, peace and conflict, and translating the beauty and tragedy within the characters' lives onto the screen.

The direction by Hanu Raghavapudi ensures that each frame is infused with empathy and meticulous attention to detail, thus bringing out the best in a complex and layered script. The film's pacing is deliberate, which allows the audience to immerse themselves in each scene, while the editing by Kotagiri Venkateswara Rao ties the narrative together, making sure that the transitions between the past and present are smooth and contribute to the film's coherent storytelling.

Sita Ramam gained appreciation for not only its narrative but also for its performances. Dulquer Salmaan's portrayal of Lieutenant Ram is nuanced, encapsulating the essence of a man torn between his duty and the yearning for a connection. Mrunal Thakur's performance as Sita Mahalakshmi is both spirited and delicate, conveying the strength and vulnerability of her character beautifully. Rashmika Mandanna's character adds depth and relevance to the story, with her performance enhancing the film's emotional arc.

Sita Ramam is a film that rekindles the old-world charm of classical romance, offering a cinematic experience that is both visually stunning and emotionally enriching. Its ability to connect with viewers across different ages and periods is a testament to its timeless narrative and artful execution. The movie's depiction of love interwoven with historical context shows the power of heartwarming storytelling and the potency of cinema in celebrating love irrespective of the boundaries of time and space.

Sita Ramam is a 2022 romance movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.5.