:Ra.One

In London, Jenny Nair, an employee of UK-based company Barron Industries, introduces a new technology that allows things from the digital world to enter the real world using wireless transmissions from multiple devices. Shekhar Subramaniam, who also works for the company, is given a final chance to devise a unique video game. To impress his skeptical son Prateek and upon the request of his wife Sonia, Shekhar uses his son's idea that the antagonist should be more powerful than the protagonist.

Shekhar's colleague Akashi does the motion capture of the game's characters, Jenny does the programming, and Shekhar gives his face to the game's protagonist, G. One, while the antagonist, Ra. One, is faceless and has substantially greater powers than those granted to G. One, including shapeshifting and mind reading. Ra. One is imbibed with a self-learning AI. The two characters are given a H.A.R.T, which gives them powers, but also without which they cannot be killed. The game has three levels, and either of the players can only be killed in the third level using a special gun that holds a single bullet, which destroys the opponent's H.A.R.T. While designing the game, Akashi notices some malfunctions but ignores them. When the game is finally launched, it receives a standing ovation, and Prateek is so impressed that he insists on playing it immediately.

Prateek logs in under the alias Lucifer and proceeds to the final level but is interrupted by Akashi. The self-aware Ra. One, being unable to end his turn with Lucifer, becomes determined that Lucifer shall die. When the mainframe fails to shut down, Akashi calls Shekhar, who notices a problem with the game. Ra. One uses the new technology to enter the real world, breaks free, and goes to find Lucifer. Ra. One first assumes Akashi's form and asks him about Lucifer. When Akashi fails to reply, Ra. One abruptly murders him. After finding the dead Akashi, Shekhar rushes home, but is confronted on the way by Ra. One. In an attempt to save Prateek, Shekhar claims that he is Lucifer, but Ra. One scans Shekhar's ID and kills him after discovering that he is lying.

Prateek notices the strange circumstances of his father's death and realises that Ra. One has come to life. Prateek and Jenny attempt to bring G.One to life. Meanwhile, Sonia tells Prateek that the family will return to India. Having taken the form of Akashi, Ra. One chases them, but G. One enters the real world through Jenny's computer and after a fight with Ra. One, causes a gas explosion, which breaks Ra. One into cubes and temporarily disables him. G. One takes Ra. One's H.A.R.T., without which Ra. One is weakened but also cannot die. Sonia finds she cannot leave G. One and takes him along with them to India through Shekhar's passport. G. One promises Sonia that he will protect Prateek from all harm. Ra. One returns to life takes the form of a billboard model and tracks G. One and Prateek by infiltrating Baron's office.

During Prateek's birthday party, Ra. One hypnotizes Sonia, assumes her form, and kidnaps Prateek. Ra. One then instructs G. One to give him his H.A.R.T. back and sends the real Sonia in an uncontrollable Mumbai Suburban Railway train. G. One saves Sonia just in the nick of time despite the train crashing and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus getting destroyed. He had a brief moment with Sonia and returns to save Prateek. The game resumes with Prateek controlling G. One's moves. Following a lengthy fight, they successfully beat the first and second levels and reach the third level. With little power left, G. One and Prateek trick Ra. One into shooting G. One without his H.A.R.T. attached as he shields it with his hand, which leaves Ra. One helpless.

Furious, Ra. One creates ten copies of himself. Prateek is unable to differentiate the real Ra. One, and asks G.One to quote one of Shekhar's sayings, which was actually a hint in disguise: "If you join the forces of evil, its shadows shall always follow you." The pair then realise that only one of the ten Ra. Ones has a shadow. G. One shoots and destroys him. After absorbing Ra.One's remains, G. One transports himself back into the digital world. Several months later, Prateek and Sonia return to London, where Prateek finally manages to restore G. One to the real world.

{{cast listing|

• Shah Rukh Khan in a dual role as
• Shekhar Subramaniam, a video game programmer
• G.One (Good One), a superhero player character who came out of the game
• Arjun Rampal as the final form of Ra.One (Random Access One, also sounds similar to Ravana, the antagonist demon king of Lanka in Ramayana), a supervillain player character who comes out of the game into the real life.
• Kareena Kapoor as Sonia S. Subramaniam: Shekhar's wife and Prateek's mother.
• Armaan Verma as Prateek Subramaniam / Lucifer: Shekhar and Sonia's son.
• Shahana Goswami as Jenny Nair
• Tom Wu as Akashi
• Dalip Tahil as Barron
• Satish Shah as Iyer
• Suresh Menon as the taxi driver{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/karan-johar-hates-me-suresh-menon/story-sFfbC3HOG8vpV5KAcvNXNI.html|title=Karan Johar hates me: Suresh Menon|work=IANS|via=Hindustan Times|date=23 July 2010|access-date=26 October 2024}}
• Delnaaz Irani as the school teacher aboard the hijacked train{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/delnaaz-irani-pleads-for-work-says-social-media-influencers-are-given-more-importance-than-actors-8304044/|title=Delnaaz Irani pleads for work, says social media influencers are given more importance than actors with 30 years' experience|date=3 December 2022|work=The Indian Express|access-date=26 October 2024}}

}}

Additionally, Priyanka Chopra and Sanjay Dutt appears in cameos as the Desi Girl and Khal Nayak, respectively.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/shah-rukh-khan-gives-priyanka-chopra-a-ra-one-cameo/articleshow/9159059.cms|title=Shah Rukh Khan gives Priyanka Chopra a RA.One cameo|date=9 July 2011|first=Vickey|last=Lalwani|work=Mumbai Mirror|via=The Times of India|access-date=26 October 2024}} Amitabh Bachchan provides the voiceover for the introduction sequence of the game 'Ra.One' in the film. The character Chitti, played by Rajinikanth, from Enthiran appears in the film. The character is computer-generated and is not played by the actor himself.{{Cite web |date=29 October 2011 |title=Exclusive: Rajinikanth in Ra.One is not the real one! |url=http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/ENT-exclusive-srk-fools-rajinikanths-fans-in-ra-2529068.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111101220747/http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/ENT-exclusive-srk-fools-rajinikanths-fans-in-ra-2529068.html |archive-date=1 November 2011 |access-date=17 October 2023 |website=Daily Bhaskar}}

{{quote box|width=42em|align=right|quote="Ra.One is the modern, new age technology version of our mythological "Raavan", who was a mixture of ten different evil characters. I am essaying the role of G.One or better say "Jeevan", a superhero who saves the mankind from Ra.One's torment. Through this film, I want to prove that Indian superheroes can also be as cool as the international ones."{{cite news|title=SRK: Gauri is the true 'Wonder Woman' for tolerating me |url=http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/ENT-srk-gauri-is-the-true-wonder-woman-for-tolerating-me-2430702.html |author=Bhandari, Ankita |newspaper=Daily Bhaskar |access-date=14 September 2011 |date=14 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120507012713/http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/ENT-srk-gauri-is-the-true-wonder-woman-for-tolerating-me-2430702.html |archive-date=7 May 2012 |url-status=dead }}|source=—Shahrukh Khan on Ra.One}}

According to director Anubhav Sinha, the idea of Ra.One originated in 2005 when he saw an advertisement on television which showed children remotely controlling a human. He was attracted to the concept and wrote a script based on it.{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-interview-with-anubhav-sinha-part-three/20111017.htm |title=For me, Gandhi was a superhero |publisher=Rediff |date=17 October 2011 |access-date=1 May 2012 |author=Dedhia, Sonil |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120417194352/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-interview-with-anubhav-sinha-part-three/20111017.htm |archive-date= 17 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-anubhav-sinha-on-ra-one/20111013.htm |title='The best special effects of Ra.One happened in Mannat' |publisher=Rediff |date=13 October 2011 |access-date=1 May 2012 |author=Dedhia, Sonil |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120703061050/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-anubhav-sinha-on-ra-one/20111013.htm |archive-date= 3 July 2012 |url-status=dead }} Sinha then approached Shah Rukh Khan, who liked the story and decided to produce the film under his production company Red Chillies Entertainment. Sinha wasn't sure about retaining Khan's support after the former's previous film Cash (2007) became a commercial failure, but Khan reportedly "remained unchanged".

Khan felt that the film possessed significant commercial potential in addition to being a fulfilment of his "childhood dream" to be a superhero and to fly.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/RaOne-challenges-Shah-Rukh-Khan-the-star/articleshow/10112677.cms |author=Pal, Chandrima |title=Ra.One challenges Shahrukh Khan, the star |date=25 September 2011 |access-date=26 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120919185225/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-25/news-interviews/30200118_1_srk-s-red-chillies-shah-rukh-khan-anubhav-sinha |archive-date=19 September 2012 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=live }}{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/may/060510-srk-childhood-dream.htm |title=Ra.One is SRK's childhood dream |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=6 May 2010 |access-date=20 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120104082853/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/may/060510-srk-childhood-dream.htm |archive-date=4 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} He stated that he wanted to "make a film that gives me the right to deserve the iconic status that I've got for 20 years", and also said that he wanted to make a film dedicated to father-son relationships, which were, in his opinion, "neglected" in Bollywood.{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/ive-gone-wrong-more-often-than-ive-gone-right.-maybe-thats-why-im-successful/864133/0 |title='I've gone wrong more often than I've gone right. Maybe that's why I'm successful' |newspaper=The Indian Express |date=23 October 2011 |access-date=25 April 2012 |author=Singh, Harneet |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126040200/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/ive-gone-wrong-more-often-than-ive-gone-right.-maybe-thats-why-im-successful/864133/0 |archive-date=26 January 2013 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/sep/220910-informer-5.htm |title=Ra.One is dedicated to all the fathers |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=22 September 2010 |access-date=20 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120501220357/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/sep/220910-informer-5.htm |archive-date=1 May 2012 |url-status=dead }} Khan's idea was to make a simple family drama which expanded into an action film.{{cite news|url=http://in.reuters.com/article/idINIndia-59860120111013 |author=Jamkhandikar, Shilpa |title=A minute with: Shahrukh Khan |date=13 October 2011 |work=Reuters |access-date=13 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120124051133/http://in.reuters.com/article/2011/10/13/idINIndia-59860120111013 |archive-date=24 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} He declined to make the film in English to increase its appeal for Western audiences, feeling that "cracking Hollywood on their terms" was unnecessary.{{cite news|url=http://oldbh.bollywoodhungama.com/news/2010/02/22/13795/index.html |author=Jha, Subhash K |title=Shahrukh bonds with Leonardo DiCaprio, Martin Scorsese at Berlin |date=22 February 2010 |work=Bollywood Hungama |access-date=26 February 2010 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120422002222/http://oldbh.bollywoodhungama.com/news/2010/02/22/13795/index.html |archive-date=22 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} Both Khan and Sinha credited their children for providing encouragement and regularly "approving" the film's execution.

Red Chillies Entertainment continued to work on other projects before finalising the production aspects of Ra.One.{{cite web|url=http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/ra-one-decoded/ |author1=Dasgupta, Sagorika |author2=Shah, Jigah |title=Ra.One: decoded |date=25 September 2011 |publisher=BoxOfficeIndia.co.in |access-date=28 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120309041332/http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/ra-one-decoded/ |archive-date= 9 March 2012 |url-status=dead }} After providing the visual effects for My Name Is Khan (2010), the studio focused solely on Ra.One and did not take up any other films.{{cite web|url=http://www.awn.com/articles/article/raone-indias-iron-man |publisher=Animation World Network |title=Ra.One: India's Iron Man |author=Narang, Mamta |date=10 June 2011 |access-date=15 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120502171318/http://www.awn.com/articles/article/raone-indias-iron-man |archive-date=2 May 2012 |url-status=dead }} Khan initially approached a number of directors to helm the film, including Aditya Chopra and Karan Johar, but they declined; eventually, Sinha was made as the film's director.{{cite web |url=http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx?ID=ENTEN20110185864&keyword=bollywood&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA&nid=140355 |publisher=NDTV |title=I approached Karan, Adi for Ra.One: Shahrukh Khan |date=11 October 2011 |access-date=11 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111214091705/http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx?ID=ENTEN20110185864&keyword=bollywood&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA&nid=140355 |archive-date=14 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} To prepare the film's premises and characterisation, Sinha spent several months viewing video clips, digital art portals and comic books. Sinha and Khan also watched around 200 superhero films from all over the world.{{cite news |author=Tuteja, Joginder |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/features/type/view/id/2325/Shah+Rukh%27s+homework+for+Ra.+One%3F+Watch+200+superhero+films |work=Bollywood Hungama |title=Shahrukh's homework for Ra.One? Watch 200 superhero films |date=15 June 2011 |access-date=15 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304080249/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/features/type/view/id/2325/Shah+Rukh%27s+homework+for+Ra.+One%3F+Watch+200+superhero+films |archive-date=4 March 2016 |url-status=dead }} The storyboards were designed by Atul Chouthmal, who was contracted after he met Khan at Yash Raj Studios. While the former began work on the storyboards, the producers hired a storyboard artist from Hollywood. Chouthmal revealed that Khan and the other artist differed on their visions of the film, and so he was brought back.{{cite web|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-03-18/news-interviews/29144448_1_srk-shah-rukh-khan-red-chillies |title=SRK takes to doodling |date=18 March 2011 |access-date=27 April 2012 |author=M Shah, Kunal |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512232220/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-03-18/news-interviews/29144448_1_srk-shah-rukh-khan-red-chillies |archive-date=12 May 2013 |work=The Times of India |url-status=dead }} Before filming, Khan reportedly took tips from actor Kamal Haasan regarding the production of large-scale films, having been impressed by Haasan's Dasavathaaram (2008).{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/mar/180310-Shah-Rukh-Khan-Kamal-Hassan-Ra-One.htm |title=Who is SRK taking tips from for his next Ra.One? |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=18 March 2010 |access-date=20 April 2012 |author=KBR, Upala |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130614232754/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/mar/180310-Shah-Rukh-Khan-Kamal-Hassan-Ra-One.htm |archive-date=14 June 2013 |url-status=dead }}

{{quote box|width=29em|align=left|quote="I have always felt this – and even Alfred Hitchcock said that in a movie, which has a larger than life hero, the villain's role should be very strong. So, I [also] felt [that] if the villain looks good, the superhero will also look good."{{cite web|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/jun/020611-SRK-takes-cue-from-Alfred-Hitchcock-for-RA-One.htm |title=SRK takes cue from Alfred Hitchcock |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |work=Mid-Day |date=2 June 2011 |access-date=20 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130615041753/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/jun/020611-SRK-takes-cue-from-Alfred-Hitchcock-for-RA-One.htm |archive-date=15 June 2013 |url-status=dead }}|source=—Shahrukh Khan, on the title of the film}}

The title of the film received significant media attention due to it being the name of the antagonist rather than the protagonist.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/SRKs-Ghajini-moment/articleshow/8676047.cms |title=SRK's Ghajini moment? |date=1 June 2011 |access-date=20 April 2012 |author=Sinha, Seema |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111105041344/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-06-01/news-interviews/29608219_1_villain-film-ambitious-project |archive-date=5 November 2011 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=live }} The move was considered innovative and noted as a sign of the "rising importance of the villain in Bollywood."{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/Innovation-the-keyword-behind-in-Ra-One-SRK/articleshow/10462094.cms |title=Innovation, the keyword behind Ra.One: SRK |date=23 October 2011 |access-date=20 April 2012 |author=Das, Soumitra |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512231352/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-23/news-interviews/30312874_1_innovation-raone-sequel |archive-date=12 May 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/ra-one-ghajini-don-bollywood-s-obsession-with-the-villain/ |title=Ra.One, Ghajini, Don: Bollywood's obsession with the villain |publisher=Koimoi |date=13 March 2012 |access-date=20 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120424194534/http://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/ra-one-ghajini-don-bollywood-s-obsession-with-the-villain/ |archive-date=24 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} According to Sinha, the title had not been planned as such, and was ultimately chosen because Ra.One "sounded cooler" than G.One.{{cite web|url=http://mumbaiboss.com/2011/10/21/qa-with-ra-one-director-anubhav-sinha/ |title=Q&A with Ra.One director Anubhav Sinha |work=The First Post |publisher=Mumbai Boss |author=A Khan, Rubina |date=21 October 2011 |access-date=19 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419082802/http://mumbaiboss.com/2011/10/21/qa-with-ra-one-director-anubhav-sinha/ |archive-date= 19 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} Khan was advised to name the film after his own character; he declined to do so, citing the inter-dependence between good and evil.{{cite web|url=http://www.ahlanlive.com/shah-rukh-khan-takes-dubai-by-storm-146904.html |title=Shahrukh Khan takes Dubai by storm |publisher=Ahlan! Live |date=25 October 2011 |access-date=20 April 2012 |author=Khan, Nazia |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120205215327/http://www.ahlanlive.com/shah-rukh-khan-takes-dubai-by-storm-146904.html |archive-date=5 February 2012 |url-status=dead }} He also called Alfred Hitchcock as his inspiration, and pointed out that the antagonists in films like Sholay, Mr. India and Sadak were better remembered than the protagonists.

Shah Rukh Khan was the first actor to be cast in the film. Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Asin had initially been considered for the lead female role; Kareena Kapoor was ultimately chosen because she insisted on playing the part.{{cite web|url=http://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/how-kareena-kapoor-ousted-priyanka-chopra-asin-for-ra-one/ |title=How Kareena Kapoor ousted Priyanka Chopra and Asin for Ra.One |publisher=Koimoi |date=31 October 2011 |access-date=11 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120824180446/http://www.koimoi.com/bollywood-news/how-kareena-kapoor-ousted-priyanka-chopra-asin-for-ra-one/ |archive-date=24 August 2012 |url-status=dead }} Arjun Rampal accepted the role of Ra.One after Anubhav Sinha expressed a strong desire to cast him in the film.{{cite news|url=http://www.mumbaimirror.com/article/30/2010030820100308023854371cb8bd29/Back-in-action.html |title=Back in action |newspaper=Mumbai Mirror |date=8 March 2010 |access-date=18 April 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130129075532/http://www.mumbaimirror.com/article/30/2010030820100308023854371cb8bd29/Back-in-action.html |archive-date=29 January 2013 |url-status=dead }} Tom Wu was contracted to the film in July 2010 and Shahana Goswami was cast one month later.{{cite news |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/news/type/view/id/1236412/sorttype//Chinese-American+actor+Tom+Wu+to+star+in+Ra.One |title=Chinese-American actor Tom Wu to star in Ra.One |date=27 July 2010 |work=Bollywood Hungama |access-date=22 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304072212/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/news/type/view/id/1236412/sorttype//Chinese-American+actor+Tom+Wu+to+star+in+Ra.One |archive-date=4 March 2016 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/apr/150410-shahana-signs-ra-one.htm |title=Shahana signs up for Ra.One |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=15 April 2010 |access-date=19 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110909020652/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/apr/150410-shahana-signs-ra-one.htm |archive-date=9 September 2011 |url-status=dead }} Amitabh Bachchan agreed to be a part of the film after being requested by Khan and Sinha.{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Now-Big-B-to-be-part-of-RA-One/Article1-754897.aspx |title=Now, Big B to be part of Ra.One |work=Hindustan Times|date=8 October 2011 |access-date=14 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120121101803/http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/Now-Big-B-to-be-part-of-RA-One/Article1-754897.aspx |archive-date=21 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} Several cast members prepared extensively for their roles; Rampal and Kapoor followed special diets to lose weight,{{cite web |url=http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx?ID=ENTEN20110166222&keyword=bo&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA |title=Kareena's 3 diets for her look in Ra.One |work=Mid-Day |publisher=NDTV |date=10 January 2011 |access-date=15 March 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240525223246/https://www.webcitation.org/677nz7aun?url=http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx%3FID=ENTEN20110166222&keyword=bo&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA |archive-date=25 May 2024 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-interview-with-armaan-verma/20111013.htm |title=Meet Shahrukh Khan's son |publisher=Rediff |date=13 October 2011 |access-date=18 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419000034/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-interview-with-armaan-verma/20111013.htm |archive-date=19 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} Khan and Verma performed their own stunts and Kapoor subsequently did so as well despite initial reluctance.{{cite web|url=http://in.movies.yahoo.com/news/kareena-in-action-mode.html |title=Kareena in action mode |work=Movie Talkies |publisher=NDTV |date=25 May 2011 |access-date=24 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110528125752/http://in.movies.yahoo.com/news/kareena-in-action-mode.html |archive-date=28 May 2011 |url-status=dead }}

The cast encountered problems during production, Khan faced difficulties with his superhero suit and prosthetic makeup and injured his left knee.{{cite magazine|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ra.one-interesting-facts/1/157441.html |title=Ra.One interesting facts |magazine=India Today |date=25 October 2011 |access-date=15 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120420180650/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ra.one-interesting-facts/1/157441.html |archive-date=20 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news|url=https://m.timesofindia.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/Workload-takes-toll-on-Shah-Rukh-Khan/articleshow/9977609.cms |title=Workload takes toll on Shahrukh Khan |date=14 September 2011 |access-date=18 March 2012 |author=Shelar, Jyoti |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120919185141/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-14/news-interviews/30153647_1_shah-rukh-khan-srk-fight-sequence |archive-date=19 September 2012 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=live }} The decision to cast Rampal was met with scepticism due to "questionable acting abilities", a statement Sinha criticised. In addition, Rampal encountered back problems (which were treated by the time production began), prompting speculation of a possible replacement by Vivek Oberoi.{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/Vivek-Oberoi-can-replace-Arjun-in-Ra-One/iplarticleshow/5537289.cms |title=Vivek Oberoi can replace Arjun in Ra.One |work=The Times of India|date=5 February 2010 |access-date=17 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525120313/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/Vivek-Oberoi-can-replace-Arjun-in-Ra-One/iplarticleshow/5537289.cms |archive-date=25 May 2013 |url-status=dead }} Jackie Chan had initially been approached for the role of Aakaashi, but he declined the offer.{{cite news|url=http://movies.indiatimes.com/News-Gossip/News/Jackie-Chans-acting-pricey-with-SRK/articleshow/5552876.cms |author=Vyavahare, Renuka |title=Jackie Chan's acting pricey with SRK! |date=10 February 2010 |newspaper=The Times of India |access-date=22 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120412032309/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/articlelistls/1081479906.cms?frommovies=1 |archive-date=12 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} Rajinikanth suffered from health problems which caused a delay in the filming of his cameo appearance.{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-interview-with-director-anubhav-sinha/20111012.htm |title='Rajnikanth became a part of Ra.One a year ago' |publisher=Rediff |date=12 October 2011 |access-date=1 May 2012 |author=Dedhia, Sonil |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120625045420/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-interview-with-director-anubhav-sinha/20111012.htm |archive-date= 25 June 2012 |url-status=dead }} Sanjay Dutt faced a scheduling conflict with Agneepath (2012), which was later resolved.{{cite web|url=http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/gupshup/2011/sanjay-dutt-action-shahrukh-khan-raone-110711-aid0062.html |title=Sanjay Dutt's action in Shahrukh Khan's Ra.One |publisher=Oneindia.in |date=11 July 2011 |access-date=25 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414234845/http://www.robotstxt.org/ |archive-date=14 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}

The crew of Ra.One featured both Indian and overseas personnel. Nicola Pecorini served as the director of photography with V. Manikandan providing assistance. Andy Gill and Spiro Razatos were hired as the stunt supervisors, and Nino Pansini was hired as the stunt cinematographer. Sabu Cyril and Marcus Wookey were responsible for the production design.{{cite web|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-06-26/news-interviews/29705637_1_production-designer-krrish-visual-communication |title=Sabu Cyril, the dream weaver |date=26 June 2011 |access-date=20 April 2012 |author=Sinha, Divashri |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130507150617/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-06-26/news-interviews/29705637_1_production-designer-krrish-visual-communication |archive-date=7 May 2013 |work=The Times of India |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://www.pandolin.com/2011/12/making-of-ra-one.html |title=Making of Ra.One |publisher=Pandolin |date=2 December 2011 |access-date=25 April 2012 |author=Krishna Ahuja, Rahul |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/67BzK7Cw6?url=http://www.pandolin.com/2011/12/making-of-ra-one.html |archive-date=25 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} The film's producer was Bobby Chawla, but Gauri Khan later stepped in after the former suffered a brain haemorrhage.{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/jul/270710-Karan-Johar-RA-One-Shah-Rukh-Khan.htm |title=My name is Karan and I am not directing Ra.One |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=27 July 2010 |access-date=20 April 2012 |author=KBR, Upala |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111121113819/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/jul/270710-Karan-Johar-RA-One-Shah-Rukh-Khan.htm |archive-date=21 November 2011 |url-status=dead }} Filming took place at a number of studios, notably Filmistan Studios, Film City and Yash Raj Studios in India and the Black Hangar Studios in the UK.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.screendaily.com/news/uk-ireland/uks-black-hangar-studios-officially-opens-for-business/5041317.article |title=UK's Black Hangar Studios officially opens for business |magazine=Screen Daily |date=3 May 2012 |access-date=25 May 2012 |author=Cooper, Sarah |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130128233204/http://www.screendaily.com/news/uk-ireland/uks-black-hangar-studios-officially-opens-for-business/5041317.article |archive-date=28 January 2013 |url-status=dead }}

Principal photography was initially set to begin in Miami, but the idea was abandoned due to budget constraints.{{cite news|url=http://www.filmiami.org/pdf/press_clippings/Jan2010/MH1-4-2010_Bollywood.pdf |author=Hanks, Douglas |title=The Bollywood effect in South Florida: lights, camera, ka-ching! |date=2 January 2010 |newspaper=The Miami Herald |access-date=22 September 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120329145136/http://www.filmiami.org/pdf/press_clippings/Jan2010/MH1-4-2010_Bollywood.pdf |archive-date=29 March 2012 |url-status=dead }} The first phase of filming began in Goa on 21 March 2010 and continued until May.{{cite web|url=http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=15702 |title=Shahrukh Khan has a super active schedule in 2010 |publisher=Business of Cinema |date=18 March 2010 |access-date=20 April 2012 |author=Das, Chuman |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100322214103/http://businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=15702 |archive-date=22 March 2010 |url-status=dead }}{{cite magazine|url=http://www.filmfare.com/articles/srk-concentrates-on-raone-836.html |title=SRK concentrates on Ra.One |date=6 May 2010 |magazine=Filmfare |access-date=22 August 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120325055748/http://www.filmfare.com/articles/srk-concentrates-on-raone-836.html |archive-date=25 March 2012 |url-status=dead }} The second and third phases took place in London with the entire cast, beginning in July 2010 and ending in August.{{cite web|url=http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=17012 |title=Shooting of Shahrukh Khan's Ra.One second last schedule begins at Filmistan |publisher=Business of Cinema |date=20 September 2010 |access-date=20 April 2012 |author=Pradhan Singh, Manisha |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120727232325/http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=17012 |archive-date=27 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/aug/170810-Ra-One-Shah-Rukh-Khan-shooting-September.htm |title=Next SRK's Ra.One schedule in September |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=17 August 2010 |access-date=19 April 2012 |author=Parkar, Shaheen |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120415095743/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2010/aug/170810-Ra-One-Shah-Rukh-Khan-shooting-September.htm |archive-date=15 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} The next phase was split into two schedules; the first schedule commenced at Filmistan Studios in the first week of September 2010, while the second schedule began in December 2010 and took place over a seven-day period.{{cite news|url=http://oldbh.bollywoodhungama.com/features/2011/06/20/7617/index.html |title=SRK introduces animated G.One on Twitter |date=20 June 2011 |work=Bollywood Hungama |access-date=19 August 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120423130550/http://oldbh.bollywoodhungama.com/features/2011/06/20/7617/index.html |archive-date=23 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} The remaining portions were filmed in July 2011 at Film City.{{cite web|url=http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/ra-one-at-film-city/ |title=Ra.One at Film City |publisher=BoxOfficeIndia.co.in |date=23 July 2011 |access-date=19 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426022740/http://www.boxofficeindia.co.in/ra-one-at-film-city/ |archive-date=26 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} A cameo appearance and a music video were filmed in the weeks leading up to the release, the former at the Whistling Woods Studios in Mumbai.{{cite web|url=http://www.in.com/news/entertainment/when-srk-calls-even-rajni-overrules-family-advice-20776492-in-1.html |title=When SRK calls, even Rajni overrules family advice |work=Mid-Day |publisher=In.com |date=3 October 2011 |access-date=14 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150509235523/http://www.in.com/news/entertainment/when-srk-calls-even-rajni-overrules-family-advice-20776492-in-1.html |archive-date=9 May 2015 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-18/news-interviews/30289761_1_anubhav-sinha-music-video-srk-plans |title=Ra.One gets an addition |author=Joshi, Tushar |date=18 October 2011 |access-date=18 October 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715002954/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-18/news-interviews/30289761_1_anubhav-sinha-music-video-srk-plans |archive-date=15 July 2012 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=dead }}

Ra.One featured three major action sequences, which were filmed in sets and real locations across Mumbai and London. The cinematography borrowed ideas from video games, such as rapid transitions between first-person and third-person perspectives. Procedures such as bullet time were also incorporated into the film.{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/arts/radio-and-tv/article3251164.ece |title=The making of a superhero |newspaper=The Hindu |date=27 March 2012 |access-date=4 April 2012 |author=Jeshi, K |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120429190944/http://www.thehindu.com/arts/radio-and-tv/article3251164.ece |archive-date=29 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} The production design was closely associated with the lighting and cinematography to facilitate smooth filming. However, filming faced a number of difficulties including increasing costs, delays and safety constraints. In addition, differences between Khan and Sinha caused tensions on the sets.

As with the filming crew, the post-production crew of the film included both Indian and overseas personnel.{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110814/jsp/graphiti/story_14375722.jsp |title=The foreign hands |newspaper=The Telegraph |date=14 August 2011 |access-date=24 April 2012 |author=Ghosh, Suktara |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131110173238/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110814/jsp/graphiti/story_14375722.jsp |archive-date=10 November 2013 |url-status=dead }} Prime Focus carried out the film's 3-D conversion with London-based colorist Richard Fearon performing the colour grading.{{cite web |title=Ra.One might have some parts in 3D |url=http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx?ID=ENTEN20110176823&keyword=bollywood&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA&nid=109418 |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |publisher=NDTV |access-date=26 September 2011 |date=1 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110823103358/http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx?ID=ENTEN20110176823&keyword=bollywood&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA&nid=109418 |archive-date=23 August 2011 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://www.broadcastandcablesat.co.in/company-news-35.html |title=Company news |publisher=Broadcast and Cable Sat |access-date=14 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140310200648/http://www.broadcastandcablesat.co.in/company-news-35.html |archive-date=10 March 2014 |url-status=dead }} Red Chillies VFX partnered with a number of visual effects studios around the world and undertook the incorporation of the visual effects under the supervision of Jeffrey Kleiser.{{cite web|url=http://www.awn.com/news/visual-effects/synthespian-studios-provides-vfx-raone |title=Synthespian Studios provides VFX for Ra.One |publisher=Animation World Network |date=31 October 2011 |access-date=19 March 2012 |author=DeMott, Rick |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120112161327/http://www.awn.com/news/visual-effects/synthespian-studios-provides-vfx-raone |archive-date=12 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} Nvidia provided the information technology–based software utilised for the effects, while Edwark Quirk supervised over the computer-generated imagery used in the film.{{cite web|url=http://www.expresscomputeronline.com/20120430/features01.shtml |title=The IT effect in animation or special effects |publisher=Express Computer |access-date=25 April 2012 |author=Desai, Jasmine |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021093115/http://www.expresscomputeronline.com/20120430/features01.shtml |archive-date=21 October 2012 |url-status=dead }} Resul Pookutty was responsible for the film's sound design.

File:Kleiser Khan Ra.One.png

The idea for converting the film to 3-D was put forth during filming, and was implemented in July 2011 due to a revived interest in 3-D films. The process required 2,600 artists to convert 4,400 shots of the film. The sound design involved bridging the real and the virtual world,{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article3258086.ece |title=The sound of movies |newspaper=The Hindu |date=29 March 2012 |access-date=31 March 2012 |author=Chakravorty, Sohini |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120331044356/http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article3258086.ece |archive-date=31 March 2012 |url-status=dead }} and the required sound enhancements were achieved by using the Dolby Surround 7.1 system. Incorporating the visual effects began in April 2010,{{cite news|url=http://www.mumbaimirror.com/article/30/201003312010033102462739956db44c7/The-path-much-tread-on.html |title=The path much tread on |newspaper=Mumbai Mirror |date=31 March 2010 |access-date=18 April 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130129050704/http://www.mumbaimirror.com/article/30/201003312010033102462739956db44c7/The-path-much-tread-on.html |archive-date=29 January 2013 |url-status=dead }} and was preceded by extensive research. 1,200 artists worked for 2{{frac|1|2}} years to complete the visual effects work.{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/picture-perfect/823215/0 |title=Picture perfect |newspaper=The Indian Express |date=29 July 2011 |access-date=25 April 2012 |author=Sinha, Priyanka |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126033122/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/picture-perfect/823215/0 |archive-date=26 January 2013 |url-status=dead }} A number of complex procedures were executed, including cubical transformations and the design of the faceless form of Ra.One.

Despite precautions, the post-production faced significant delays owing to the digital inter-mediation,{{cite news|url=http://mumbaimirror.com/article/30/2011101720111017022946552dd1882f5/RAOne-gets-panic-attacks.html |author=Thakkar, Mehul S |newspaper=Mumbai Mirror |title=Ra.One gets panic attacks |date=17 October 2011 |access-date=17 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111223060614/http://www.mumbaimirror.com/article/30/2011101720111017022946552dd1882f5/RAOne-gets-panic-attacks.html |archive-date=23 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} increased work-load due to the 3-D and dubbed versions of the film,{{cite news|author=Dibyojyoti, Baksi |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Diwali-release-RA-One-still-incomplete/Article1-758980.aspx |newspaper=Hindustan Times |title=Diwali release Ra.One still incomplete |date=19 October 2011 |access-date=19 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120123112937/http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/Diwali-release-RA-One-still-incomplete/Article1-758980.aspx |archive-date=23 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} and delays in the completion of the visual effects.{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/raone-escapes-delay-in-release/20111021.htm |publisher=Rediff |title=Ra.One escapes delay in release |date=21 October 2011 |access-date=21 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120125212456/http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/raone-escapes-delay-in-release/20111021.htm |archive-date=25 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} The post-production also faced budget constraints and witnessed an overuse of CGI according to the cinematographer. The delays left only two days for printing the film and sending it to theatres, generating significant anxiety over a possible delay in the release. Khan subsequently kept strict tabs on the progress of work and postponed his knee surgery to complete the film on time.{{cite magazine|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/shah-rukh-khan-ra-one-katrina-kaif-anushka-sharma-kareena-kapoor/1/149083.html |title=Shahrukh Khan down with knee pain |access-date=20 December 2011 |magazine=India Today |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111218232407/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/shah-rukh-khan-ra-one-katrina-kaif-anushka-sharma-kareena-kapoor/1/149083.html |archive-date=18 December 2011 |url-status=dead }}

File:G.One Original Suit.jpg

The bodysuits worn by Khan and Rampal were designed by Robert Kurtzman and Tim Flattery, and made by a team of specialists based in Los Angeles.{{cite web|url=http://tribune.com.pk/story/181671/we-cant-compete-with-foreign-filmmakers-srk/ |agency=Indo-Asian News Service |work=The Express Tribune |title='We can't compete with foreign filmmakers': SRK |date=3 June 2011 |access-date=14 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120101180441/http://tribune.com.pk/story/181671/we-cant-compete-with-foreign-filmmakers-srk/ |archive-date=1 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} Sinha spent around three months conceptualising the costumes, watching various superhero films to design a costume, which is not created already. He then wrote a 23-page document with his sketches and details of what he wanted and gave it to the designers to work upon. To create the suit, Khan was required to enter a small chamber where a warm latex-like liquid was released up to his neck and allowed to solidify, forming the mould which was then peeled off his body. The suit was joined by a concealed zipper and subsequently modified. Computer-generated embellishments such as light beams and electricity were added to the suits after Khan expressed dissatisfaction with the initial rushes of the film.{{cite news|url=http://gulfnews.com/arts-entertainment/film/srk-is-a-superhero-at-a-super-price-1.805364 |title=SRK is a superhero at a super price |newspaper=Gulf News |date=9 May 2011 |access-date=18 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110914062304/http://gulfnews.com/arts-entertainment/film/srk-is-a-superhero-at-a-super-price-1.805364 |archive-date=14 September 2011 |url-status=dead }} A total of 21 costumes were made for the film, with each suit reportedly costing {{INRConvert|10|m}}.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Superhero-costumes-are-SRK-s-most-expensive-clothes/Article1-675821.aspx |title=Superhero costumes are SRK's most expensive clothes |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=21 March 2011 |access-date=18 March 2012 |author=Bhattacharya, Roshmila |author-link=Roshmila Bhattacharya |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120418035259/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/superhero-costumes-are-srk-s-most-expensive-clothes/Article1-675821.aspx |archive-date=18 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}

Khan's suit was made of reinforced latex, coloured steel-blue and fitted with micro-computer circuitry.{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-03-23/news-interviews/28115138_1_suit-superhero-latex |title=Rs. 1 crore superhero suit for SRK! |date=23 March 2010 |access-date=18 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512204149/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-03-23/news-interviews/28115138_1_suit-superhero-latex |archive-date=12 May 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=dead }} Rampal's suit was made of three-inch thick solid rubber, and was red in colour. Both actors were required to wear additional suits inside their body suits to prevent skin contact.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/RA-One-s-been-worth-it-Arjun-Rampal/Article1-760933.aspx |title=Ra.One has been worth it: Arjun Rampal |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=24 October 2011 |access-date=15 March 2012 |author=Bhattacharya, Roshmila |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111227065708/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/RA-One-s-been-worth-it-Arjun-Rampal/Article1-760933.aspx |archive-date=27 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} Wearing the suits created a number of difficulties for the actors. It took 20 minutes to put on the suits and 40 minutes to remove them. In addition, the non-porous nature of the suits created intense heat inside, causing excessive perspiration despite the presence of special air conditioning ducts.{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-09-15/news-interviews/28226082_1_srk-shah-rukh-khan-weight-loss |title=SRK's on a mission |date=15 September 2010 |access-date=15 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512215854/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-09-15/news-interviews/28226082_1_srk-shah-rukh-khan-weight-loss |archive-date=12 May 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=dead }} Khan later felt that the suits' conception had been a mistake since filming occurred during the day; digital adjustments to the suits brought "all the efforts to naught".

Manish Malhotra designed the look and the costume of Kareena Kapoor for the song "Chammak Challo", which received widespread media coverage.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/red-is-the-new-black-%E2%80%94-kareena-kapoor-wala-red-101615.html |title=Kareena Kapoor wala red is dictating fashion trends |magazine=The First Post |date=7 October 2011 |access-date=12 April 2012 |author=A Khan, Rubina |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120115083542/http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/red-is-the-new-black-%E2%80%94-kareena-kapoor-wala-red-101615.html |archive-date=15 January 2012 }} Kapoor wore a red sari draped in the style of a dhoti.{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-12-23/trends/30477029_1_saris-chiffon-colour |title=Red hot Vidya Balan brings red saris in vogue |date=23 December 2011 |access-date=12 April 2012 |author=Mitra, Ipshita |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512222614/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-12-23/trends/30477029_1_saris-chiffon-colour |archive-date=12 May 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=dead }} Since the release of the song, the costume was termed a "fashion rage",{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/photos-news/Photos-Entertainment/srkdanceswithchammakchallo/Article4-745209.aspx |title=Salesman of the year: Shahrukh Khan |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=13 September 2011 |access-date=12 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111230221252/http://www.hindustantimes.com/photos-news/Photos-Entertainment/srkdanceswithchammakchallo/Article4-745209.aspx |archive-date=30 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} becoming popular in India and some overseas countries. Fashion experts applauded the costume and Kapoor's ability to carry it off "stunningly", though certain experts dismissed the naming of the sari colour.

{{Main|Ra.One (soundtrack)}}

The soundtrack of Ra.One was composed by Vishal–Shekhar, with the lyrics being written by Atahar Panchi, Vishal Dadlani and Kumaar.{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/music/music-reviews/RAOne/articleshow/10005520.cms |author=Kher, Ruchika |title=Ra.One |newspaper=The Times of India |date=16 September 2011 |access-date=4 April 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120423141402/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/music/music-reviews/RAOne/articleshow/10005520.cms |archive-date=23 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} A. R. Rahman provided the background score for a single sequence.{{cite news|title=Rahman scores for Ra.One |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/music/news-and-interviews/Rahman-scores-for-RA-One/articleshow/10484382.cms |access-date=25 October 2011 |date=25 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602021646/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-25/news-and-interviews/30319741_1_rahman-scores-rahman-work-srk |archive-date=2 June 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=live }} Sinha announced that R&B singer Akon and the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra would be a part of the soundtrack; the former lent his vocals for "Chammak Challo" and "Criminal", while the latter performed in "Bhare Naina". The composers obtained the official license to use Ben E. King's "Stand By Me", on which they based the song "Dildaara". The soundtrack contains fifteen tracks, including seven original songs, four remixes, three instrumentals and an international version of "Chammak Challo". The music rights were bought by T-Series for {{INRConvert|150|m}}. The Hindi version of the soundtrack was released on 21 September 2011; the Tamil version was released on 5 October 2011 and Telugu version was released on 9 October 2011 respectively, featuring six tracks each.{{cite news|author=Kamath, Sudhish|date=5 October 2011|title=When G.One took Chitti's help|newspaper=The Hindu|url=http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article2525656.ece|url-status=dead|access-date=11 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120501211347/http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article2525656.ece|archive-date=1 May 2012}}

File:Antagonist Ra.One.jpg

The producers of Ra.One spent {{INRConvert|100|m}} out of a {{INRConvert|520|m}} marketing budget,{{cite web|url=http://www.sify.com/movies/ra-one-to-have-bollywood-s-longest-promotion-news-bollywood-ljvknXcgjcb.html |title=Bollywood's longest promotion |author=Bhat, Varada |date=19 September 2011 |work=Business Standard|via=Sify |access-date=3 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111228015803/http://www.sify.com/movies/ra-one-to-have-bollywood-s-longest-promotion-news-bollywood-ljvknXcgjcb.html |archive-date= 28 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} {{INRConvert|150|m}} of this was utilised for internet promotions alone.{{cite video|url=http://www.ndtv.com/video/player/news/i-ra-one-i-s-rampage/213695 |publisher=NDTV |title=Ra.One rampage |date=14 October 2011 |access-date=20 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111219113059/http://www.ndtv.com/video/player/news/i-ra-one-i-s-rampage/213695 |archive-date=19 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} The film's first theatrical poster was released in December 2010, and was followed by the release of two teaser trailers during the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.{{cite news|title=Ra.One first look to be unveiled today during World Cup telecast |url=http://oldbh.bollywoodhungama.com/news/2011/03/23/15531/index.html |work=Bollywood Hungama |access-date=23 March 2011 |author=Tuteja, Joginder |date=23 March 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120424074105/http://oldbh.bollywoodhungama.com/news/2011/03/23/15531/index.html |archive-date=24 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} The first theatrical trailer premiered three months later.{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/selling-ra.one/864405/2 |title=Selling Ra.One |newspaper=The Indian Express |date=24 October 2011 |access-date=12 May 2012 |author=Pereira, Priyanka |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126022339/http://www.indianexpress.com/news/selling-ra.one/864405/2 |archive-date=26 January 2013 |url-status=dead }} Khan and Sinha undertook a multi-city tour during which they unveiled a 3,600 feet-long piece of fan mail to collect audience messages.{{cite web|url=http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=18423 |title=Big Cinemas launches longest travelling fan mail for Shahrukh Khan's Ra.One |publisher=Business of Cinema |date=2 June 2011 |access-date=20 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120612173041/http://businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=18423 |archive-date=12 June 2012 |url-status=dead }} The official website of Ra.One was launched on 31 May 2011, and an official YouTube channel for the film was subsequently unveiled.{{cite news|url=http://businesstoday.intoday.in/story/srks-superhero-power-turning-ra.one-to-marketing-gold/1/18952.html |title=SRK's superhero power: turning Ra.One to marketing gold |author=S, Anusha |date=27 September 2011 |publisher=Business Today |access-date=3 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402035902/http://businesstoday.intoday.in/story/srks-superhero-power-turning-ra.one-to-marketing-gold/1/18952.html |archive-date=2 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} On 20 October 2011, Khan held a live chat with fans on Google Plus, the first time an Indian film personality had done so.{{cite web|title=Shahrukh meets fans on Google Plus Hangout for Ra.One chat |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/shah-rukh-to-meet-fans-on-google-plus-hangout/194855-8.html |publisher=CNN-IBN |access-date=20 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111224184157/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/shah-rukh-to-meet-fans-on-google-plus-hangout/194855-8.html |archive-date=24 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} Rampal's look in the film, which had been kept secret,{{cite web|url=http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/gupshup/2011/shahrukh-khan-arjun-rampal-ra-one-060811.html |publisher=Oneindia.in |title=Shahrukh hiding Arjun's look in Ra.One |date=6 August 2011 |access-date=10 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414234845/http://www.robotstxt.org/ |archive-date=14 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} was revealed in late October 2011.{{cite news|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report_arjun-rampal-comes-clean-on-friction-with-shah-rukh-khan_1601951 |author=Mahadevan, Sneha |newspaper=Daily News and Analysis |title=Arjun Rampal comes clean on "friction" with Shahrukh Khan |date=22 October 2011 |access-date=22 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120304004505/http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report_arjun-rampal-comes-clean-on-friction-with-shah-rukh-khan_1601951 |archive-date=4 March 2012 |url-status=dead }}

The film's marketing utilised merchandise and games to facilitate the creation of a franchise.{{cite web |url=http://www.afaqs.com/news/story.html?sid=31521_Indias+first+social+game+for+Ra.One |title=India's first social game for Ra.One |author=Shinde, Shivani |date=30 August 2011 |work=Business Standard|publisher=Afaqs! |access-date=3 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513122449/http://www.afaqs.com/news/story.html?sid=31521_Indias+first+social+game+for+Ra.One |archive-date=13 May 2013 |url-status=dead }} Khan marketed merchandise related to the film,{{cite web|title=Ra.One: exclusive and authentic movie merchandise |url=http://raone.seventymm.com/ |publisher=Seventymm |access-date=20 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425081557/http://raone.seventymm.com/ |archive-date=25 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} which included toys, PC tablets and apparel.{{cite web|url=http://www.outlookindia.com/article.aspx?278623 |work=Outlook |title=G.One, with the wind |date=24 October 2011 |access-date=18 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120211052016/http://outlookindia.com/article.aspx?278623 |archive-date=11 February 2012 |url-status=dead }} On 14 October 2011, a gaming tournament featuring games like Call of Duty was conducted in Mumbai and telecast live on YouTube.{{cite web|url=http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=19219/ |title=Shahrukh Khan to battle with gamers at Ra.One NVIDIA GeForce LAN |publisher=Business of Cinema |date=14 October 2011 |access-date=14 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406202636/http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=19219/ |archive-date=6 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}

Red Chillies Entertainment partnered with Sony Computer Entertainment Europe to create "Ra.One – The Game", a game for PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3 which was released on 5 October 2011.{{cite web|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/hardware/playstation-launches-game-on-srk-flick-ra-one/articleshow/10249194.cms |title=PlayStation launches game on SRK flick Ra.One |agency=Press Trust of India|date=5 October 2011 |work=The Economic Times |access-date=5 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120923211759/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-10-05/news/30246976_1_playstation2-playstation3-sony-computer-entertainment-europe |archive-date=23 September 2012 |url-status=dead }} The producers further collaborated with UTV Indiagames to design a social game titled Ra.One Genesis, with an independent plot based on G.One, in addition to designing digital comics based on the film's characters.{{cite news|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/et-cetera/if-we-dont-evolve-in-10-years-we-will-lose-indian-audience-shahrukh-khan/articleshow/9962913.cms |author=Raghavendra, Nandini |title=Indian cinema must evolve; Ra.One not urban centric: Shahrukh Khan |date=13 September 2011 |newspaper=The Economic Times |access-date=13 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120121121553/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-09-13/news/30149445_1_indian-cinema-raone-film |archive-date=21 January 2012 |url-status=dead }}

In India, the Hindi version of Ra.One was released across more than 4,000 plus screens worldwide- 3,100 screens in 2,100 theatres, breaking the record for the widest Hindi film's release previously held by Salman Khan's Bodyguard (2011).{{cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3582 |publisher=Box Office India |title=Ra.One to hit 3,500 screens in India |date=20 October 2011 |access-date=20 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428203032/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3582 |archive-date=28 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/raone-gets-rs-52crore-promotional-push/193103-62.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131225155422/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/raone-gets-rs-52crore-promotional-push/193103-62.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=25 December 2013 |title='Ra.One' gets Rs 52-crore promotional push |publisher=Ibnlive.in.com |date=14 October 2011 |access-date=10 August 2013}} The Tamil and Telugu versions were released on 275 prints and 125 prints respectively.{{cite news|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/media/entertainment-/entertainment/bollywood-learning-new-languages-for-the-south/articleshow/10877082.cms |title=Bollywood learning new languages for the South |newspaper=The Economic Times |access-date=26 November 2011 |date=26 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130531213941/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-11-26/news/30444484_1_hindi-film-film-markets-cinema-halls |archive-date=31 May 2013 |url-status=dead }} A week before the release, multiplex owners throughout India decided to allot 95% of the total available screen space to the film.{{cite news|title=Ra.One: Shahrukh Khan's latest movie gets 95 per cent of shows across multiplexes |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/media/entertainment-/entertainment/ra-one-shah-rukh-khans-latest-movie-gets-95-per-cent-of-shows-across-multiplexes/articleshow/10425263.cms |author=Lalwani, Vickey |access-date=20 October 2011 |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=20 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111022090737/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-10-20/news/30301646_1_multiplex-owners-raone-ra-one-songs |archive-date=22 October 2011 |url-status=dead }} Overseas, Ra.One was released in 904 prints.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/SRK-s-RA-One-earns-Rs-170-crore-at-BO/Article1-763262.aspx |title=SRK's RA.One earns Rs 170 crore at BO |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=31 October 2011 |access-date=10 August 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131211132858/http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/srk-s-ra-one-earns-rs-170-crore-at-bo/article1-763262.aspx |archive-date=11 December 2013 }} This including 600 prints in Germany, 344 prints in the US, 200–300 prints in South Korea, 202 prints in the UK, 79 prints in the Middle East, 75 prints in Russia, 51 prints in Australia, 49 prints in Canada and 25 prints in New Zealand and Taiwan.{{cite web|url=http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/box-office/2011/ra-one-beat-bodyguard-international-box-office-281011.html|work=Oneindia|title=SRK's Ra.One beats Bodyguard at international box office|date=28 October 2011|access-date=18 April 2013|archive-date=13 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513114756/http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/box-office/2011/ra-one-beat-bodyguard-international-box-office-281011.html|url-status=live}} In early October 2011, a partnership deal was being finalised by the distributors to allow the film to be released in China across 1,000 prints. In addition, the film was released in Pakistan and non-traditional territories like Brazil, Spain, Italy, Greece and Hong Kong.{{cite web|url=http://entertainment.onepakistan.com.pk/news/movie/1956-superhero-ra-one-flying-high-with-rs-170-crore-collection.html|publisher=One Pakistan|title=Superhero Ra.One flying high with Rs. 170 crore collection|date=31 October 2011|access-date=18 April 2013|archive-date=12 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171112021915/http://entertainment.onepakistan.com.pk/news/movie/1956-superhero-ra-one-flying-high-with-rs-170-crore-collection.html|url-status=live}} The 3D version was released in 550 screens across the world. Ra.One was noted for the extensive use of digital prints, reportedly making up 50–60% of the total release;{{cite web|url=http://www.medianama.com/2011/10/223-shah-rukh-khan-digital-cinema-ra-one/ |author=Pahwa, Nikhil |publisher=MediaNama |title=Shahrukh Khan: could never release Ra.One in 3,500 prints if not for digital; 50–60% digital prints |date=7 October 2011 |access-date=17 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120415044208/http://www.medianama.com/2011/10/223-shah-rukh-khan-digital-cinema-ra-one/ |archive-date=15 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} in India, the film was exhibited in over 1,300 digital theatres, breaking the record previously held by Bodyguard. The wide digital release was implemented to lower distribution costs, make the film accessible to a wider audience and reduce piracy. Despite the measures taken, pirated versions of Ra.One were available on the Internet within hours of the film's release.{{cite web|url=http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=19337 |title=Shahrukh Khan's Ra.One succumbs to piracy |publisher=Business of Cinema |date=27 October 2011 |access-date=20 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111219115617/http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=19337 |archive-date=19 December 2011 |url-status=dead }}

In May 2011, the first rushes of Ra.One were shown to the cast of Khan's other home production Always Kabhi Kabhi (2011).{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/may/260511-Shah-Rukh-Khan-Always-Kabhi-Kabhi-Ra-One.htm |title=Always Kabhi Kabhi cast gets a sneak peek into Ra.One |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=26 May 2011 |access-date=20 April 2012 |author=KBR, Uppala |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110908165110/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/may/260511-Shah-Rukh-Khan-Always-Kabhi-Kabhi-Ra-One.htm |archive-date=8 September 2011 |url-status=dead }} Subsequently, the film was screened for test audiences to study and gauge the film's appeal across different age groups.{{cite web|url=http://www.medianama.com/2011/10/223-shah-rukh-khan-there-needs-to-be-more-film-based-digital-content-would-like-to-keep-ra-one-alive-on-digital/|publisher=Medianama|title=Shahrukh Khan: There needs to be more film-based digital content; would like to keep Ra.One alive on digital|author=Pahwa, Nikhil|date=5 October 2011|access-date=18 April 2013|archive-date=11 April 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130411192743/http://www.medianama.com/2011/10/223-shah-rukh-khan-there-needs-to-be-more-film-based-digital-content-would-like-to-keep-ra-one-alive-on-digital/|url-status=live}} A few days prior to the theatrical release, Khan arranged a special screening of the film's final cut in Yash Raj Studios, where he invited close friends, his family and the film's crew.{{cite web|url=http://www.businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=19307 |title=Iron Man VFX are nothing in front of Ra.One VFX – first audience reaction |publisher=Business of Cinema |date=24 October 2011 |access-date=3 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120611090808/http://businessofcinema.com/news.php?newsid=19307 |archive-date= 11 June 2012 |url-status=dead }} Between 24 and 26 October 2011, Ra.One had international premieres in Dubai, London and Toronto, all of which were chosen due to their international significance and large South Asian populations.{{cite magazine |url=http://www.magnamags.com/content/view/8489/105/lang,english/ |magazine=Stardust |title=Shahrukh Ra.One to premiere in London, New York, Dubai, Toronto!! |author=Rai, K.K |date=27 September 2011 |access-date=5 October 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240525224010/https://www.webcitation.org/679thGSnj?url=http://www.magnamags.com/content/view/8489/105/lang,english/ |archive-date=25 May 2024 |url-status=usurped }} The premiere in Dubai was held on 24 October 2011 at the Grand Cinemas, Wafi. A high-profile dinner and charity auction followed, where Khan raised AED30,000 (approximately US$8,200) to build a workshop for children with special needs.{{cite web|title=SRK raises Dh30,000 for special needs children |url=http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/srk-raises-dh30-000-for-special-needs-children |date=25 October 2011 |work=The National |access-date=25 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120422231908/http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/srk-raises-dh30-000-for-special-needs-children |archive-date=22 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} The premiere included three simultaneous screenings of the film, for which tickets were placed on sale for the public.{{cite web|title=Shahrukh's Ra.One breaks Mideast record |url=http://www.internationalreporter.com/News-7783/shah-rukhs-ra-one-breaks-mideast-record.html |date=20 October 2011 |publisher=International Reporter |access-date=18 April 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130515124555/http://www.internationalreporter.com/News-7783/shah-rukhs-ra-one-breaks-mideast-record.html |archive-date=15 May 2013 }} The premiere in London took place at the O₂ Cineworld the following day, and the premiere in Toronto took place at the TIFF Bell Lightbox on 26 October 2011.{{cite web|title=Bollywood star Shahrukh Khan brings Ra.One to Toronto |url=http://ca.omg.yahoo.com/blogs/north-stars/bollywood-star-shah-rukh-khan-brings-ra-one-182544537.html |date=27 October 2011 |publisher=Yahoo! |access-date=27 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425112729/http://ca.omg.yahoo.com/blogs/north-stars/bollywood-star-shah-rukh-khan-brings-ra-one-182544537.html |archive-date=25 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}

Ra.One was submitted to the Central Board of Film Certification on 14 October 2011 to receive its viewership rating. The Board raised strong objections to the film's action scenes, fearing that they would influence young children to emulate the stunts. The police and the Indian Railways security force had made similar objections to the train-based stunts in the film, claiming that youngsters would "blindly imitate them" and hence put their lives at risk.{{cite news|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/report_ra-one-rubs-mumbai-s-railway-cops-the-wrong-way_1606199 |title=Ra.One rubs Mumbai's railway cops the wrong way |newspaper=Daily News and Analysis |date=2 November 2011 |access-date=10 March 2012 |author=Aklekar, Rajendra |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120106083036/http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/report_ra-one-rubs-mumbai-s-railway-cops-the-wrong-way_1606199 |archive-date=6 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} The film was finally passed with a 'U' certificate without cuts, but under the condition that prominent disclaimers were shown, stating that the stunts were computer-generated and should not be imitated.{{cite web|url=http://www.in.com/news/entertainment/raonepasses-the-censor-board-scrutiny-but-20954029-in-1.html |title=Ra.One passes the Censor Board scrutiny, but .. |work=Mid-Day |publisher=In.com |date=17 October 2011 |access-date=15 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111220025628/http://www.in.com/news/entertainment/raonepasses-the-censor-board-scrutiny-but-20954029-in-1.html |archive-date=20 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} The British Board of Film Classification rated the film 12A for "moderate fantasy violence". In March 2012, a Mid-Day report alleged that Ra.One had received a favourable rating, pointing out that the producers had violated the rules by meeting the Board officials during the screening.{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2012/mar/170312-Bollywood-Change-in-Censor-Board-panel-irks-Bollywood.htm |title=Change in Censor Board panel irks Bollywood |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=17 March 2012 |access-date=18 March 2012 |author=Kotwani, Hiren |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419141715/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2012/mar/170312-Bollywood-Change-in-Censor-Board-panel-irks-Bollywood.htm |archive-date=19 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}

The television broadcasting rights for Ra.One were bought by Star India for a then-record sum of {{INR|350 million}}, surpassing 3 Idiots (2009).{{cite news|title=Ra.One will make Rs. 100 crore in a week |author=Dubey, Rachana |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/RA-One-will-make-Rs-100-crore-in-a-week/Article1-759816.aspx |date=21 October 2011 |access-date=29 February 2012 |newspaper=Hindustan Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120125025859/http://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/ra-one-will-make-rs-100-crore-in-a-week/article1-759816.aspx |archive-date=25 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} The Indian television premiere of Ra.One took place on 21 January 2012 on STAR Gold, garnering a 28% market sharefor the channel and a TVR of 6.7.{{cite web|url=http://www.indiantelevision.com/headlines/y2k12/jan/jan206.php |publisher=IndianTelevision.com |title=Ra.One signals upward ratings trend of big movies on TV |date=27 January 2012 |access-date=30 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120131091752/http://www.indiantelevision.com/headlines/y2k12/jan/jan206.php |archive-date=31 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} Star India subsequently syndicated the television screening rights to Disney XD, where it premiered on 2 June 2012.{{cite web|url=http://www.indiantelevision.com/headlines/y2k12/may/may272.php |title=Star syndicates Ra.One airing rights to Disney XD |publisher=Indian Television |date=31 May 2012 |access-date=9 June 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120604062842/http://www.indiantelevision.com/headlines/y2k12/may/may272.php |archive-date= 4 June 2012 |url-status=dead }} In May 2012, International Media Distribution announced that Ra.One would be televised on Comcast and Cox, as a part of the celebrations of the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.{{cite web|url=http://www.onscreenasia.com/article/cable-subscribers-to-get-free-asian-movies-music-in-celebration-of-apahm/9798 |title=Cable subscribers to get free Asian movies, music in celebration of APAHM |publisher=Asia OnScreen |date=7 May 2012 |access-date=26 May 2012 |author=Las Marias, Stephen |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130513055720/http://www.onscreenasia.com/article/cable-subscribers-to-get-free-asian-movies-music-in-celebration-of-apahm/9798 |archive-date=13 May 2013 |url-status=dead }} Discovery Channel tied up with Red Chillies Entertainment to produce a one-hour program titled "Revealed: The Making of Ra.One", which aired on the channel on 30 March 2012. The program discussed the making of the film in detail, including the visual effects and the challenges faced while filming.

Eros International released the DVD of Ra.One on 13 December 2011 across all regions in one-disc and two-disc packs complying with the NTSC format.{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/Ra-One-Hindi-Bollywood-Indian-Cinema/dp/B0063V696O |title=Ra.One (2011) (Hindi movie / Bollywood film / Indian cinema DVD) |website=Amazon |date=13 December 2011 |access-date=4 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120418223933/http://www.amazon.com/Ra-One-Hindi-Bollywood-Indian-Cinema/dp/B0063V696O |archive-date=18 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} The DVD of the film contained alternate endings. Initially, Khan had wanted to add alternate endings to the theatrical release itself, but later deemed it risky. The DVD version was made interactive as well.{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/feb/100211-Ra-One-DVDs-feature-alternate-endings.htm |title=Ra.One DVDs to feature alternate endings |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=2 October 2011 |access-date=4 April 2012 |author=Joshi, Tushar |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110908043650/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/feb/100211-Ra-One-DVDs-feature-alternate-endings.htm |archive-date=8 September 2011 |url-status=dead }} VCD and Blu-ray versions of the film were also released.{{cite web|url=http://www.flipkart.com/ra-one-movie/p/itmd488fxggzepng?pid=AVMD487XHQXR6NMN |title=Ra-One (Movie, VCD) |publisher=Flipkart |access-date=4 April 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130124114714/http://www.flipkart.com/ra-one-movie/p/itmd488fxggzepng?pid=AVMD487XHQXR6NMN |archive-date=24 January 2013 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://www.flipkart.com/ra-one-movie/p/itmd488fxggzepng?pid=AVMD4JPXNV3EWDGG |title=Ra-One (Movie, Blu-ray) |publisher=Flipkart |access-date=4 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181120013034/http://www.flipkart.com/ra-one-movie/p/itmd488fxggzepng?pid=AVMD4JPXNV3EWDGG |archive-date=20 November 2018 |url-status=dead }}

The German Blu-ray edition was released on 1 June 2012 by Rapid Eye Movies.{{cite web|url=https://www.blu-ray.com/movies/RaOne-Blu-ray/41584/|title=Ra.One Blu-ray Release Date June 1, 2012 (Superheld mit Herz) (Germany)|website=Blu-ray.com|access-date=8 February 2020|archive-date=18 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180818231907/http://www.blu-ray.com/movies/RaOne-Blu-ray/41584/|url-status=live}} On 24 July 2013, French distributor Condor released the film as Voltage on 3D Blu-ray. It was released in a SteelBook edition containing the 3D/2D Blu-ray discs and the DVD.{{cite web|url=https://www.blu-ray.com/movies/Voltage-3D-2D-Blu-ray/73107/|title=Voltage 3D/2D Blu-ray Release Date July 24, 2013 (SteelBook) (France)|website=Blu-ray.com|access-date=8 February 2020|archive-date=8 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180908224642/http://www.blu-ray.com/movies/Voltage-3D-2D-Blu-ray/73107/|url-status=live}} The same year, Japanese distributor Maxam released the Blu-ray on 27 September 2013.{{cite web|url=https://www.blu-ray.com/movies/RaOne-Blu-ray/79265/|title=Ra.One Blu-ray Release Date September 27, 2013 (ラ・ワン) (Japan)|website=Blu-ray.com|access-date=8 February 2020|archive-date=16 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221016074513/https://www.blu-ray.com/movies/RaOne-Blu-ray/79265/|url-status=live}}

The film faced allegations of plagiarism with similarities to Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), the Batman series, Iron Man (2008), The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010) and Tron: Legacy (2010).{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-raones-inspirations/20110919.htm |title=Has Ra.One been inspired from this? |publisher=Rediff |date=19 September 2011 |access-date=27 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120117072231/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-raones-inspirations/20110919.htm |archive-date=17 January 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|title=Ra.One includes a tribute to Rajinikanth |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/RA-One-includes-a-tribute-to-Rajinikanth/Article1-745104.aspx |agency=Press Trust of India|work=Hindustan Times |access-date=13 September 2011 |date=13 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120125025759/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/RA-One-includes-a-tribute-to-Rajinikanth/Article1-745104.aspx |archive-date=25 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} Khan denied the allegations, saying, "I got inspired from a lot of superhero movies but the movie is original. In fact, Ra.One will be the first superhero-based movie in the world in which the superhero lives in a family."{{cite web|agency=Indo-Asian News Service |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/raone-superhero-is-a-family-man-says-srk/193359-8-66.html |publisher=CNN-IBN |title=Ra.One superhero is a family man, says SRK |date=14 October 2011 |access-date=15 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111219055746/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/raone-superhero-is-a-family-man-says-srk/193359-8-66.html |archive-date= 19 December 2011 |url-status=dead }}

A few days before the release, screenwriter Yash Patnaik claimed that Ra.One resembled a concept that he had developed several years before. Patnaik appealed to the Bombay High Court to delay the film's release, until he was given due credit or 10% of the film's overall profit.{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-21/mumbai/30305855_1_tv-writer-advocates-copyright |author=Thomas, Shibu |title=TV writer seeks stay on Ra.One |date=21 October 2011 |access-date=21 October 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120708105756/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-21/mumbai/30305855_1_tv-writer-advocates-copyright |archive-date=8 July 2012 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=dead }} The court, observing prima facie evidence that there had been copyright violations, asked the filmmakers to deposit {{INRConvert|10|m}} with the court on 21 October 2011 before releasing the film. Patnaik challenged the court's decision and demanded that the producers give him credit and not cash.{{cite web|url=http://www.enewsgulf.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/bollywood/492-shahrukh-to-pay-one-crore-to-lift-ban-on-raone |title=Shahrukh to pay Rs. 1 crore to lift a ban on Ra.One |publisher=e-News Gulf |date=22 October 2011 |access-date=23 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425091538/http://www.enewsgulf.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/bollywood/492-shahrukh-to-pay-one-crore-to-lift-ban-on-raone |archive-date=25 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} Sinha later claimed that he alone had developed the film's story.{{cite news

|title=I developed the original story of Ra.One: Anubhav Sinha

|author=Baksi, Dibyojyoti

|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/I-developed-the-original-story-of-RA-One-Anubhav-Sinha/Article1-760936.aspx

|newspaper=Hindustan Times

|date=24 October 2011 |access-date=24 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111228003739/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/I-developed-the-original-story-of-RA-One-Anubhav-Sinha/Article1-760936.aspx

|archive-date=28 December 2011 |url-status=dead

}}

Ra.One also faced cybertheft and hacking issues. On 3 June 2011, three days after its launch, the official website of the film was hacked by suspected Pakistani cyber criminals who stated that the act was in revenge for a similar attack on a Karachi press club website. The hackers defaced the homepage and left a note threatening the Indian Press Club.{{cite news|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report_shah-rukh-khan-s-ra-one-websites-hacked_1550520 |author=Singh, Divyesh |title=Shahrukh Khan's Ra.One website hacked |newspaper=Daily News and Analysis |date=3 June 2011 |access-date=15 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120304004438/http://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report_shah-rukh-khan-s-ra-one-websites-hacked_1550520 |archive-date=4 March 2012 |url-status=dead }} Despite precautions, the song "Chammak Challo" was leaked several months before the official release of the soundtrack. Khan clarified that the leaked song was a "rough version" of the actual song, and that the person responsible for the leak was being looked for. He subsequently refuted claims that the leak had been engineered as a publicity stunt.{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-06-02/news-interviews/29608972_1_leak-chammak-challo-song |title=SRK upset over Chammak Challo leak |date=2 June 2011 |access-date=27 April 2012 |author=Sharma, Smrity |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602021652/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-06-02/news-interviews/29608972_1_leak-chammak-challo-song |archive-date=2 June 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=dead }}

The sequence in the film where Shah Rukh Khan's character eat mixes curd with noodles was not well received by South Indians.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/prithviraj-defends-being-called-kaalu/articleshow/16332290.cms|title=Prithviraj defends being called 'kaalu'|date=15 January 2017|via=The Economic Times - The Times of India}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2018/Mar/14/its-not-funny-anymore-1786663.html|title=It’s not funny anymore|date=14 March 2018|website=The New Indian Express}} His frequent usage of the words “ayyo” ({{translation|oh god}}) and “rascal” while attempting to speak Tamil was also perceived as inaccurate while Kareena Kapoor's usage of "condom condom" instead of "konjam konjam" ({{Translation|little little}}) was perceived as offensive and was not present in the dubbed versions.{{Cite web|url=https://www.michigandaily.com/michigan-in-color/what-bollywood-thinks-of-me/|title=The racism and stereotypes South Indians confront in Bollywood|first=Roshni|last=Mohan|date=14 July 2021|website=The Michigan Daily}}{{Cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/entertainment-others/ra-one-2/|title=Ra.One|date=27 October 2011}}

|}

In India, Ra.One debuted at the beginning of the five-day Diwali weekend, and subsequently broke the Diwali opening day record.{{cite web |title=Ra.One nets highest ever Diwali day collections |url=http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx?ID=ENTEN20110186868&keyword=bollywood&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA&nid=144581 |access-date=28 October 2011 |publisher=NDTV |date=28 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120101172145/http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_story.aspx?ID=ENTEN20110186868&subcatg=MOVIESINDIA&keyword=bollywood&nid=144581 |archive-date=1 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} The film then set the records for the biggest single-day net revenue and the biggest three-day opening weekend earned by a Hindi film, breaking the previous records held by Bodyguard.{{cite web

|url = http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3619

|website = Box Office India

|title = Ra.One second day territorial breakdown

|date = 28 October 2011

|access-date = 28 October 2011

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120428203058/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3619

|archive-date = 28 April 2012

|url-status = dead

}}{{cite web

|url = http://www.boxofficeindia.com/arounddetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=4013&nCat=

|website = Box Office India

|title = Top opening weekends (all time) Agneepath 5th

|date = 7 February 2012

|access-date = 5 March 2012

|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120419144655/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/arounddetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=4013&nCat=

|archive-date = 19 April 2012

|url-status = dead

}}

Subsequently, the film began to suffer significant drops in its collections, with its five-day extended weekend and nine-day extended week coming second to the records of Bodyguard.{{cite web |title=Ra.One (Hindi) has good extended first week |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3649 |date=4 November 2011 |publisher=Box Office India |access-date=4 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428202627/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3649 |archive-date=28 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} The film faced an 84 percent drop in collections in its second week and fell a further 90 percent in its third week, the latter primarily due to the release of Rockstar.{{cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3675&nCat= |title=Ra.One has 15.50 crore nett second week |publisher=Box Office India |date=11 November 2011 |access-date=30 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428202116/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3675&nCat= |archive-date=28 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3701&nCat= |title=Ra.One has heavy fall in week three |publisher=Box Office India |date=16 November 2011 |access-date=30 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107045146/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3701&nCat= |archive-date=7 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} The dubbed versions showed similar trends. The Tamil and Telugu versions together earned around {{INR|50 million}} nett.

In overseas markets, Ra.One earned the highest three-day and five-day opening weekends among the Hindi film releases of 2011;{{cite web |url=http://boxofficeindia.com/arounddetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=4065&nCat= |title=Top openings overseas (all time updated) 21/02/12 |publisher=Box Office India |date=21 February 2012 |access-date=7 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419163201/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/arounddetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=4065&nCat= |archive-date=19 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/overdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3643&nCat= |title=Ra.One has huge opening in overseas and is biggest hit of 2011 |publisher=Box Office India |date=2 November 2011 |access-date=30 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120421002834/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/overdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3643&nCat= |archive-date=21 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} by its second weekend, the film had become the highest-grossing Hindi film of 2011 in overseas markets, but the collections suffered drops throughout.{{cite web |title=Ra.One falls in overseas but number one of 2011 |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/overdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3669 |date=9 November 2011 |publisher=Box Office India |access-date=9 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428202525/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/overdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3669 |archive-date=28 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} In general, families and children formed the major portion of the film's audience,{{cite news|title=Family powers Ra.One on day I |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111027/jsp/frontpage/story_14672596.jsp |access-date=27 October 2011 |newspaper=The Telegraph |date=27 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118064108/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111027/jsp/frontpage/story_14672596.jsp |archive-date=18 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} and the 3D version is regarded as a success.{{cite news|url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-11-07/news/30369552_1_scrabble-entertainment-ranjit-thakur-first-3d-film |title=After Ra.One success Bollywood gears up for more shorter films in 3D |newspaper=The Economic Times |date=7 November 2011 |access-date=3 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120418032031/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-11-07/news/30369552_1_scrabble-entertainment-ranjit-thakur-first-3d-film |archive-date= 18 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}

The budget of Ra.One was the subject of significant speculation prior to its release. A number of estimates placed the budget between {{INRConvert|1.4|b}}{{cite magazine|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/gallery/big-budget-films-of-2011/1/5519.html#photo5|title=Big budget films of 2011|magazine=India Today|access-date=2 May 2012|archive-date=13 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170413235242/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/gallery/big-budget-films-of-2011/1/5519.html#photo5|url-status=live}} and {{INRConvert|2.0|b}}. It was universally accepted that the film was the most expensive Bollywood film of all time, with certain sources stating that the film was the most expensive Indian film ever.{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111026/jsp/calcutta/story_14669505.jsp |title=Ra.One raises price bar at plexes; fans sing rah-rah Ra.One – city shows willingness to pay more for SRK's big Diwali release today |newspaper=The Telegraph |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=10 April 2012 |author=Roy, Priyanka |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111228214217/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1111026/jsp/calcutta/story_14669505.jsp |archive-date=28 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} The original budget was revealed to be {{INRConvert|1.30|b}} after promotional expenses.{{Cite web | title = Despite Rs 170cr income, RA.One not a hit? | work = Hindustan Times | date = 2 November 2011 | url = http://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/despite-rs-170cr-income-ra-one-not-a-hit/story-yw7lvEwuItuSwHIIBGpFyI.html | access-date = 26 June 2016 | archive-date = 28 August 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160828205143/http://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/despite-rs-170cr-income-ra-one-not-a-hit/story-yw7lvEwuItuSwHIIBGpFyI.html | url-status = live }} Khan stated that he had "worked very hard" to finance the film without borrowing money,{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/opinion/edit-page/Today-a-Steven-Spielberg-is-looking-for-investment-from-us/articleshow/10117520.cms |title=Today, a Steven Spielberg is looking for investment from us |date=26 September 2011 |access-date=3 May 2012 |author=Dubey, Bharti |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512232031/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-09-26/edit-page/30201105_1_raone-film-special-effects |archive-date= 12 May 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=live }} and reportedly hosted a television show just to finance the film.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tv/Shah-Rukh-Khan-wont-do-Zor-Ka-Jhatka-2/articleshow/10814281.cms |title=Shahrukh Khan won't do Zor Ka Jhatka 2 |date=21 November 2011 |access-date=3 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512210601/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-11-21/tv/30425474_1_zor-ka-jhatka-game-show-shah-rukh-khan |archive-date= 12 May 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=live }} Ra.One earned {{INRConvert|1.32|b}} from pre-release revenue sources, setting a new record for Bollywood films.{{cite web|title=Shahrukh's Ra.One beats Aamir's 3 Idiots in pre-release collection|url=http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/features/2011/shahrukh-ra-one-aamir-3-idiots-pre-release-171011.html|date=17 October 2011|publisher=Oneindia.in|access-date=17 October 2011|archive-date=17 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111217114707/http://entertainment.oneindia.in/bollywood/features/2011/shahrukh-ra-one-aamir-3-idiots-pre-release-171011.html|url-status=live}}

The extensive marketing campaign greatly increased audience expectations of the film. Ra.One set records for the level of pre-release buzz for an Indian film, and also topped a number of polls gauging the most awaited Bollywood films of the year.{{cite web|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/anna-lokpal-bill-top-fb-status-updates-in-2011/210098-11.html |title=Anna, Jan Lokpal Bill top FB status updates in 2011 |publisher=CNN-IBN |date=9 December 2011 |access-date=3 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120111012655/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/anna-lokpal-bill-top-fb-status-updates-in-2011/210098-11.html |archive-date= 11 January 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/may/310511-informer-3.htm |title=Ra.One, Agneepath most eagerly awaited films: a recent poll |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=31 May 2011 |access-date=20 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110806174910/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/may/310511-informer-3.htm |archive-date=6 August 2011 |url-status=dead }} Anticipation for the film was equally high among the trade analysts, with some commenting that the film would pass the {{INRConvert|1|b}} mark in one week and the {{INRConvert|3|b}} mark in over three weeks. Advance bookings commenced on 20 October 2011 on a limited scale, and expanded later. While initial ticket sales were low,{{cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3586&nCat |title=Ra.One advance starts at select multiplexes |publisher=Box Office India |date=21 October 2011 |access-date=11 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020180001/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3586&nCat |archive-date=20 October 2013 |url-status=dead }} they picked up considerably near the release date. A few days prior to the release, the advance booking was described as "phenomenal", with an overall advance booking rate of 20–25% across the country.{{cite web |url=http://boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3596&nCat= |title=Ra.One advance: excellent |publisher=Box Office India |date=25 October 2011 |access-date=11 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111223075003/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/boxnewsdetail.php?page=shownews&articleid=3596&nCat= |archive-date=23 December 2011 |url-status=dead }} A number of advantages of the film's release were pointed out, such as the festive season and higher 3D ticket prices, though there had been doubt regarding the timely release of the 3D version.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/3D-worries-for-the-superhero/articleshow/10484561.cms |title=3D worries for the superhero |date=25 October 2011 |access-date=10 April 2012 |author=Sharma, Amrapali |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130512201629/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-25/news-interviews/30319815_1_special-3d-bookings-multiplex-owners |archive-date=12 May 2013 |work=The Times of India |url-status=live }}

Upon release, Ra.One received mixed reviews from critics in India{{cite news|title=Critics' verdict: Ra.One gets mixed reviews |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Critics-verdict-RA-One-gets-mixed-reviews/Article1-761773.aspx |access-date=27 October 2011 |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=27 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120420151718/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/critics-verdict-ra-one-gets-mixed-reviews/Article1-761773.aspx |archive-date=20 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} and generally positive reviews overseas. Review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes reported a 61% approval rating, based on 23 reviews with an average rating of 5.41/10.{{cite web |title=Ra.One |url=http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/ra_one_2011/ |access-date=29 September 2015 |website=Rotten Tomatoes |date=29 May 2020 |archive-date=25 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925053129/http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/ra_one_2011/ |url-status=live }} On Metacritic, which assigns a weighted mean from film reviews, Ra.One holds a rating of 60% based on eight reviews, signifying "mixed or average reviews".{{cite web|title=Ra.One|website=Metacritic|year=2011|access-date=29 September 2015|url=http://www.metacritic.com/movie/ra-one|archive-date=6 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160306045244/http://www.metacritic.com/movie/ra-one|url-status=live}}

{{quote box|width=26em|align=right|quote="Some of the scenes are surely entertaining but when one goes to watch a SRK film, one hopes to be entertained throughout, and sadly Ra.One fails to do so."{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/bollywood/review-ra-one-not-your-usual-srk-film_99089.htm |publisher=Zee News |title=Review: Ra.One– not your usual SRK film |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=26 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120130184214/http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/bollywood/review-ra-one-not-your-usual-srk-film_99089.htm |archive-date=30 January 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|2|5}}|source=—Zee News review; contrarily, several other reviews praised the film's entertainment value.{{cite news

|title=Ra.One

|author=Kazmi, Nikhat

|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/hindi/Ra-One/movie-review/10484952.cms

|access-date=26 October 2011 |newspaper=The Times of India

|date=26 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111125201855/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/movie-reviews/hindi/Ra-One/movie-review/10484952.cms

|archive-date=25 November 2011 |url-status=dead

}}{{Rating|3.5|5}}{{cite web|title=Movie review: Ra.One is a complete entertainer |url=http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/237156/20111025/ra-one-review-raone-review-bollywood-film-reviews-shah-rukh-khan-actress-kareena-kapoor-actor-arjun-.htm |access-date=25 October 2011 |website=International Business Times |date=25 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111207022319/http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/237156/20111025/ra-one-review-raone-review-bollywood-film-reviews-shah-rukh-khan-actress-kareena-kapoor-actor-arjun.htm |archive-date=7 December 2011 |url-status=dead }}}}

Positive reviews described the film as an ambitious initiative and a technological success, with some critics thinking that Ra.One had put Indian films on par with Hollywood.{{cite web|title=Ra.One mixed verdict: are the audiences divided? |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/raone-mixed-verdict-are-the-audiences-divided/196748-8-66.html |access-date=27 October 2011 |publisher=CNN-IBN |author=Vats, Rohit |date=27 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111205143404/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/raone-mixed-verdict-are-the-audiences-divided/196748-8-66.html |archive-date=5 December 2011 |url-status=dead }}{{cite magazine|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ra-one-movie-review/1/157516.html |magazine=India Today |title=Ra.One movie review |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=26 October 2011 |author=Bamzai, Kaveri |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120415174005/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ra-one-movie-review/1/157516.html |archive-date=15 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|3.5|5}} The visual effects received near-universal praise, though dissenting opinions stated that they were "all over the place".{{cite news|newspaper=Hindustan Times |author=Shekhar, Mayank |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=26 October 2011 |title=Mayank Shekhar's review: Ra.One |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/News-Feed/mayankshekhar/Mayank-Shekhar-s-review-Ra-one/Article1-761677.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120220174947/http://www.hindustantimes.com/News-Feed/mayankshekhar/Mayank-Shekhar-s-review-Ra-one/Article1-761677.aspx |archive-date=20 February 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|2|5}} The action sequences were also widely praised.{{cite news|url=http://www.mumbaimirror.com/article/30/20111027201110270206495966d26d5a4/RaTed-RaNdom-.html |title=Ra.Ted Ra.Ndom |date=27 October 2011 |newspaper=Mumbai Mirror |access-date=27 October 2011 |author=Anshuman, Karan |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111231161809/http://www.mumbaimirror.com/article/30/20111027201110270206495966d26d5a4/RaTed-RaNdom-.html |archive-date=31 December 2011 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|2|5}}{{cite magazine|url=http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/movie-review-ra-one-is-a-good-one-in-more-ways-than-one-117330.html |magazine=The First Post |title=Movie review: Ra.One is a Good.One, in more ways than one |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=26 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120128130139/http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/movie-review-ra-one-is-a-good-one-in-more-ways-than-one-117330.html |archive-date=28 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} Other aspects of the film received more polarising opinions, and one very positive review was criticised for "over-rating" the film.{{cite news|url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/review/14208/index.html |author=Adarsh, Taran |work=Bollywood Hungama |title=Ra.One: movie review |date=24 October 2011 |access-date=24 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120415031809/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/cast/id/541043 |archive-date=15 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|4.5|5}} Mixed views were opined regarding the plot's gaming concept, with some critics deeming it "far-fetched" and others lauding the "gaming-style aesthetics".{{cite news|author=Malani, Gaurav |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/10499290.cms |title=Ra.One: Movie review |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=26 October 2011 |newspaper=The Economic Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419174619/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/10499290.cms |archive-date=19 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|3|5}} Similarly, some critics called the emotional scenes "fulfilling" while others felt them to be "lacking in connect with the audience".{{cite news|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/ra-one-review-shah-rukh-khan-253499 |work=The Hollywood Reporter |title=Ra.One: film review |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=26 October 2011 |author=Honeycutt, Kirk |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120501174505/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/review/ra-one-review-shah-rukh-khan-253499 |archive-date=1 May 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/raone-review-srk-can-fail-too/20111027.htm |title=Ra.One review: SRK can fail too |publisher=Rediff |date=27 October 2011 |access-date=17 December 2011 |author=Sivaswamy, Sairesh |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111231041251/http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/raone-review-srk-can-fail-too/20111027.htm |archive-date=31 December 2011 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|1.5|5}} Raja Sen of Rediff.com gave a 1.5 out of 5 star rating explaining that "Ra.One is a subpar superhero film with a mediocre soundtrack and occasionally terrific effects. For those of you looking to compare, it's well below Krrish on the super-pecking order, and far, far below Robot."{{cite web|last=Sen|first=Raja|title=Ra.One: What a letdown!|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-raone-raja-sen/20111026.htm|work=Rediff.com|access-date=17 August 2021|archive-date=17 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210817042702/https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-raone-raja-sen/20111026.htm|url-status=live}}

The story was negatively received by several critics, with a number of them deeming it to be disappointing and lacking in originality;{{cite web|url=http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_Review.aspx?id=666 |author=Chatterjee, Saibal |publisher=NDTV |title=Review: Ra.One |access-date=16 June 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120302171933/http://movies.ndtv.com/movie_Review.aspx?id=666 |archive-date= 2 March 2012 }}{{Rating|3|5}} one critic praised the original idea but criticised its "Bollywoodization".{{cite news|url=http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/oct/261011-ra-one-shah-rukh-khan-film-review-superhero-film-two-half-stars.htm |title=Ra.One fails to impress |newspaper=Mid-Day |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=6 June 2012 |author=Shetty-Shah, Shubha |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120623205154/http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/oct/261011-ra-one-shah-rukh-khan-film-review-superhero-film-two-half-stars.htm |archive-date= 23 June 2012 |url-status=dead }} The direction was criticised in a number of reviews, though a few critics praised Sinha's pacing of the film and the execution of the action sequences. Some critics pointed to the presence of scenes which were not child-friendly, despite Ra.One being promoted as a children's film.{{cite web|publisher=CNN-IBN |author=Masand, Rajeev |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/diwali-cracker-raone-is-ambitious-but-flawed/196587-47-84.html |title=Masand: Ra.One is ambitious but flawed |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=26 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120420011427/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/diwali-cracker-raone-is-ambitious-but-flawed/196587-47-84.html |archive-date=20 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|2.5|5}} Particular reviews criticised the lack of character development and the film's "incoherently hackneyed morality".{{cite web|title=3D review: Ra.One could have been so much more |url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-raone-could-have-been-so-much-more/20111028.htm |date=28 October 2011 |publisher=Rediff |access-date=28 October 2011 |author=Verma, Sukanya |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120505234438/http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-raone-could-have-been-so-much-more/20111028.htm |archive-date=5 May 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|2.5|5}}{{cite web|url=http://www.movieweb.com/movie/ra-one/reviews/critic |title=Ra.One: critic reviews |publisher=Movie Web |access-date=3 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130516115752/http://www.movieweb.com/movie/ra-one/reviews/critic |archive-date= 16 May 2013 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|1|4}} A few critics panned the film as a whole, describing it as a "mess";{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-raone-arthur-pais/20111026.htm |title=Review: Ra.One disappoints New York |publisher=Rediff |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=17 December 2011 |author=J Pais, Arthur |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419000030/http://www.rediff.com/movies/review/review-raone-arthur-pais/20111026.htm |archive-date=19 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}{{Rating|2|5}} one review commented, "It's convenient to say that if you have no expectations from the film, you wouldn't be disappointed."{{cite web|url=http://in.movies.yahoo.com/blogs/movie-reviews/r-one-review-000920615.html |publisher=Yahoo! |title=Ra.One review |author=Guha, Kunal |date=26 October 2011 |access-date=26 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120418064028/http://in.movies.yahoo.com/blogs/movie-reviews/r-one-review-000920615.html |archive-date=18 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}

{{Main|List of accolades received by Ra.One}}

After its release, Ra.One received numerous nominations and awards in India and abroad, a majority of them for its technical aspects. The film notably won the National Film Award and the Filmfare Award for Best Special Effects,{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/Vidya-Balan-wins-National-Award-for-The-Dirty-Picture/articleshow/12173411.cms |title=Vidya Balan wins National Award for The Dirty Picture |date=7 March 2012 |access-date=7 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130430015945/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-03-07/news-interviews/31131831_1_lyrics-award-chillar-party-nitesh-tiwari |archive-date=30 April 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/photogallery/5751-27.html |title=Meet the winners of the 57th Filmfare Awards |publisher=CNN-IBN |access-date=4 May 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120421115137/http://ibnlive.in.com/photogallery/5751-27.html |archive-date= 21 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} and four International Indian Film Academy Awards.{{cite news |url=http://gulfnews.com/arts-entertainment/film/znmd-and-ra-one-dominate-iifa-tech-awards-1.1018146?localLinksEnabled=false |title=ZNMD and Ra.One dominate IIFA tech awards |newspaper=Gulf News |date=5 May 2012 |access-date=10 May 2012 |author=Radhakrishnan, Manjusha |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/67YWlqDcK?url=http://gulfnews.com/arts-entertainment/film/znmd-and-ra-one-dominate-iifa-tech-awards-1.1018146?localLinksEnabled=false |archive-date=10 May 2012 |url-status=dead }} The film also received several business awards for its marketing and distribution.{{cite web|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-03-20/news-interviews/31214083_1_salman-khan-worst-actor-ghanta-awards |title=Salman Khan named 'worst actor' at Ghanta Awards |date=20 March 2012 |access-date=4 April 2012 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120707042933/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-03-20/news-interviews/31214083_1_salman-khan-worst-actor-ghanta-awards |archive-date=7 July 2012 |work=The Times of India |url-status=dead }}

{{quote box|quote="A film like this requires a year-and-a-half of pre-production, so it's impossible for me to give you a time frame. I'm unsure if it'll even get made or if I'll use the technology in some other genre [...] I know it is going to be expensive, but perhaps the next film would be cheaper since I now have the technology."|source=—Khan, on the possible release of a sequel{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Wanted-story-for-G-One/Article1-823759.aspx |title=Wanted: story for G.One |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=11 March 2012 |access-date=28 April 2012 |author1=Bhattacharya, Roshmila |author2=Saini, Minakshi |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120414035336/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Wanted-story-for-G-One/Article1-823759.aspx |archive-date=14 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}|align=right|width=25em}}

Reports of a planned sequel of Ra.One began surfacing prior to the film's release, though the extent of real progress on the sequel is unknown. Both Khan and Sinha admitted to formulating plans for a sequel, though the former noted that it would be "presumptuous" to start the sequel before the first film's release.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/SRK-planning-to-make-RA-One-sequel/Article1-754168.aspx |title=SRK planning to make Ra.One sequel |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=6 October 2011 |access-date=4 April 2012 |author=Mehta, Shweta |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120118065601/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/SRK-planning-to-make-RA-One-sequel/Article1-754168.aspx |archive-date=18 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} Khan later refuted the speculations, saying that a sequel was unlikely due to his other commitments.{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-11-05/news-interviews/30363639_1_raone-superhero-film-sequel |title=No plans for Ra.One sequel: SRK |date=5 November 2011 |access-date=4 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005011822/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-11-05/news-interviews/30363639_1_raone-superhero-film-sequel |archive-date=5 October 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=dead }} After Ra.One won a National Award, an "overjoyed" Khan said that the film's world could be further explored. He stated that the sequel, if made, would be titled G.One and not Ra.Two, and that he would make it "faster, bigger and better" than Ra.One.{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/movies/srk-planning-ra-one-sequel_99393.htm |title=SRK planning Ra.One sequel? |publisher=Zee News |date=2 November 2011 |access-date=4 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120104051139/http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/movies/srk-planning-ra-one-sequel_99393.htm |archive-date=4 January 2012 |url-status=dead }} Khan was reported to be looking for a script, without a fixed release date.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Shah-Rukh-Khan-game-for-RA-One-sequel/Article1-823234.aspx |title=Shahrukh Khan game for Ra.One sequel |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=10 March 2012 |access-date=4 April 2012 |author=Bhattacharya, Roshmila |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120416101554/http://www.hindustantimes.com/Entertainment/Bollywood/Shah-Rukh-Khan-game-for-RA-One-sequel/Article1-823234.aspx |archive-date=16 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} In April 2012, Mushtaq Sheikh said that the pre-production of the sequel had begun. A number of reports stated that Kareena Kapoor would not be a part of the sequel.{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-12-07/news-interviews/30482229_1_raone-sequel-chammak-challo |title=Kareena Kapoor will not be a part of Ra.One sequel |date=7 December 2011 |access-date=4 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004230341/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-12-07/news-interviews/30482229_1_raone-sequel-chammak-challo |archive-date=4 October 2013 |newspaper=The Times of India |url-status=dead }}

Despite Khan's enthusiasm for the idea of a sequel, the film industry expressed mixed opinions regarding it. Filmmaker Rajkumar Gupta commented, "It would be challenging to take forward a story that has not worked earlier." Producer Ramesh Taurani responded negatively to the idea, saying, "It is important for the film to be appreciated so that a sequel can be made." Trade analyst Atul Mohan called the sequel "a bad idea". Conversely, others were supportive of the sequel. Producer Goldie Behl brushed aside arguments about the success of the first film, saying, "If the people think that they can earn some more, then it doesn't matter how big or small the hit was." Director Kunal Kohli also reacted positively, saying, "Certain ideas naturally lend themselves to sequels. So why not use that investment of your time and effort to make a sequel that will take the brand further?"

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