One of Indian cinema’s biggest upcoming spectacles has reportedly locked another major partnership before reaching theatres. Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash, is said to have secured Dharma Productions as its Indian theatrical distributor, strengthening the film’s release strategy ahead of its Diwali debut. The reported deal arrives shortly after it was confirmed that Warner Bros. Pictures will handle the film’s international distribution, giving the mythological epic strong backing across both domestic and overseas markets.
With a massive ensemble cast, cutting-edge visual effects and a production mounted on an unprecedented scale, Ramayana has already become one of the most anticipated Indian films in recent years. If the latest reports are accurate, the makers have now added another heavyweight partner to support what is expected to be one of Bollywood’s biggest theatrical launches.
Dharma Productions Reportedly Secures India Rights
According to Variety India, Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions has acquired the Indian distribution rights for Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious two-part adaptation of the ancient epic. The report states that producer Namit Malhotra presented an edited 30-minute preview of the film to several studios during the distribution process. The footage reportedly showcased the project’s large-scale action, world-building and extensive visual effects, leaving a strong impression on potential buyers.
The publication further reported that negotiations initially began around ₹500 crore before both sides eventually agreed on a deal worth ₹250 crore. While the makers have not officially confirmed the financial details, the reported agreement would rank among the biggest distribution deals for an Indian film. With Dharma Productions expected to oversee the domestic release, the film is likely to receive an extensive theatrical rollout across the country.
The partnership also completes the film’s distribution strategy, with Warner Bros. Pictures already onboard for international territories. Having major distributors handling both Indian and overseas markets is expected to significantly boost the film’s global reach when it finally arrives in cinemas.
Star-Studded Cast Brings The Epic To Life
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is being developed as a two-part cinematic saga inspired by one of India’s most celebrated epics. Ranbir Kapoor takes on the role of Lord Rama, while Sai Pallavi portrays Goddess Sita. Kannada superstar Yash, who is also associated with the project as a producer, plays the powerful antagonist Ravana.
The film also features Ravie Dubey as Lakshman, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Arun Govil as King Dashrath, Indira Krishnan as Queen Kaushalya, Sheeba Chadha as Manthara, Adinath Kothare as Bharat and Kunal Kapoor as Lord Indra. The expansive cast reflects the makers’ ambition to recreate the legendary tale on a scale rarely attempted in Indian cinema.
Another major attraction is the film’s music. The score has been composed through a collaboration between Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer and Academy Award winner AR Rahman, bringing together two globally recognised names for what promises to be an epic cinematic soundtrack.
Diwali Release Targets Massive Box Office
The first installment of Ramayana is scheduled to release in theatres on November 8, 2026, coinciding with the lucrative Diwali holiday period. The second chapter is already planned for a Diwali 2027 release, making it one of the few Indian franchises with a multi-year theatrical roadmap already in place.
Over the past year, excitement surrounding the project has steadily grown following the release of its first official glimpse and character reveals. The combination of a celebrated mythological story, an A-list cast, international visual effects teams and premium distribution partners has positioned Ramayana as one of the biggest box office contenders of the coming year.
Although the reported distribution agreement with Dharma Productions is yet to receive an official announcement from the studio or the filmmakers, the latest development signals the confidence surrounding the project. With domestic and overseas distribution now reportedly in place, Ramayana appears to be entering the final stretch before its much-awaited theatrical release.
