Ramayana: Part 1 is preparing for another major step in its international journey, with the Ranbir Kapoor and Yash starrer targeting theatrical releases in China, Japan, Russia and South Korea during the first quarter of 2027. The expansion could introduce Nitesh Tiwari’s mythological epic to several important overseas markets, extending its reach beyond the territories covered in its initial release. The film has reportedly already been submitted for censor clearance in China.
The development comes as the movie continues its theatrical run following its November 5, 2026, release. With its ambitious scale and international distribution strategy, the makers are looking to take the story of Lord Ram to a wider global audience.
Ramayana Targets Four Major International Markets
According to reports published on November 15, Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled to expand into China, Japan, Russia and South Korea in Q1 2027. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh also shared the update, highlighting the four territories as the next phase of the film’s overseas release strategy.
China is particularly significant because the film has reportedly entered the censor-clearance process there. However, approval and a confirmed theatrical date are still important steps before the release can be finalised. The remaining three markets are also part of the reported expansion plan, although individual release dates have not yet been announced.
The film has already reached several international territories, including North America, the United Kingdom and Hong Kong. Its Hong Kong release on November 12 featured Hindi screenings with Chinese and English subtitles, providing another opportunity to reach audiences outside India.
Why China and Japan Matter for Ramayana
China represents an important opportunity for Indian cinema, with previous releases such as Dangal, Secret Superstar and Bajrangi Bhaijaan demonstrating the potential of the market. Nitesh Tiwari’s involvement is also interesting because he directed Dangal, which became one of the most successful Indian films in China.
Japan offers a different opportunity. The country already has an established connection with the Ramayana through the animated film Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, which has developed a following among animation and mythology enthusiasts.
Russia and South Korea would further expand the film’s international footprint, taking its theatrical reach into markets with different cinematic traditions and audience preferences.
What Happens Next for Ramayana?
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra, the film features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. The ensemble also includes Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman and Arun Govil in an important role.
The two-part adaptation is planned as a larger cinematic interpretation of the Indian epic, with its second instalment scheduled for Diwali 2028.
For now, the proposed Q1 2027 expansion is an important development in the film’s international distribution plans. The next major update to watch will be China’s censor approval and the announcement of individual theatrical release dates across all four markets.
