Ramayana 2026 is the first part of Nitesh Tiwari’s two-film adaptation of the Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. It releases worldwide on November 5, 2026 [CHECK], with Part 2 planned for Diwali 2027.
Release dates kept shifting, budget numbers kept growing, and new trailers kept dropping. If you have lost track, this guide puts everything in one place. You will get the confirmed facts, the reported details, and practical tips for watching it the right way.
Key Takeaways
- Release date: Ramayana: Part 1 opens worldwide on November 5, 2026, ahead of Diwali [CHECK].
- Cast: Ranbir Kapoor (Rama), Sai Pallavi (Sita), Yash (Ravana), Ravie Dubey (Lakshman) and Sunny Deol (Hanuman) [CHECK].
- Budget: About ₹4,000 crore for both parts combined, including marketing, as confirmed by co-producer Yash [CHECK].
- Formats: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam, plus IMAX and other premium formats [CHECK].
- Music: A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer are composing the score together [CHECK].
What Is Ramayana 2026?
Ramayana 2026 is a Hindi-language mythological epic directed by Nitesh Tiwari, based on Valmiki’s Ramayana. It is produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios with Yash’s Monster Mind Creations, and VFX by DNEG. Part 1 releases on November 5, 2026, and is reported to be the most expensive Indian film ever made [CHECK].
The film is being sold globally under the title Ramayana: Rise of a Legend in some international marketing [CHECK]. In India, the on-screen title reads “Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana” [CHECK].
This is not a remake of any earlier TV show or film. It is a fresh, large-format adaptation designed to work for Indian audiences and for viewers who have never heard the story before.
Why the project took so long
Producer Namit Malhotra has described the film as a dream he pursued for more than a decade [CHECK]. The two-part plan, with releases on consecutive Diwalis, was first announced in November 2024 [CHECK]. Since then, the team has shot, built VFX and rolled out a global marketing campaign.
When Does Ramayana 2026 Release? Dates Explained
Ramayana: Part 1 releases worldwide on Thursday, November 5, 2026 [CHECK]. The makers confirmed this date on October 11, the first day of Navratri, with a new ensemble poster and the tagline “Yeh Ram Ke Yug Ka Aarambh Hai” [CHECK].
The date caused real confusion before that. Different reports pointed to November 6 for overseas markets and November 8 for India [CHECK]. Sony Pictures’ international trailer had also mentioned November 6 [CHECK]. The October announcement settled it on a single worldwide date.
Key Ramayana 2026 timeline
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| November 2024 | Two-part release plan announced: Part 1 on Diwali 2026, Part 2 on Diwali 2027 [CHECK] |
| July 3, 2025 | First look revealed [CHECK] |
| July 30, 2026 | Official trailer released in five Indian languages [CHECK] |
| August 5, 2026 | English trailer released, with AI-assisted lip sync [CHECK] |
| October 11, 2026 | Worldwide date of November 5 confirmed [CHECK] |
| October 15, 2026 | International trailer launched at a Bengaluru event [CHECK] |
| Dussehra 2026 | Advance bookings opened in India [CHECK] |
| November 5, 2026 | Ramayana: Part 1 releases worldwide [CHECK] |
| Diwali 2027 | Ramayana: Part 2 expected; exact date not announced [CHECK] |
Will there be paid previews?
Some trade reports suggested paid previews in India on November 4, one day before release [CHECK]. The makers have not officially confirmed this. Keep an eye on your ticketing app if you want the earliest possible show.
Ramayana 2026 Cast: Who Plays Whom?
The film has one of the biggest ensembles in recent Indian cinema. Here is the cast based on official posters and widely reported casting.
| Actor | Character | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Ranbir Kapoor | Lord Rama | Confirmed [CHECK] |
| Sai Pallavi | Sita | Confirmed [CHECK] |
| Yash | Ravana | Confirmed; also co-producer [CHECK] |
| Ravie Dubey | Lakshman | Confirmed [CHECK] |
| Sunny Deol | Hanuman | Confirmed [CHECK] |
| Lara Dutta | Kaikeyi | Reported [CHECK] |
| Sheeba Chaddha | Manthara | Reported [CHECK] |
| Rakul Preet Singh | Surpanakha | Reported [CHECK] |
| Arun Govil | Role not officially detailed | Seen in leaked set photos [CHECK] |
Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama
This is the role that will define Ranbir’s decade. He has said the story could probably fill ten films, and that compressing it into two was very hard [CHECK]. Early reports also claimed he would play Parashurama in a separate look, but this remains unconfirmed [CHECK].
Yash as Ravana
Yash, the star of the KGF films, plays Ravana and also co-produces. Many trailer reactions online praised his menacing screen presence, sometimes more than Ranbir’s calmer Rama [CHECK]. That contrast is likely intentional: a restrained hero against a towering villain.
Sai Pallavi as Sita
Sai Pallavi is known for natural, low-makeup performances in Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam films. Her casting signals a pan-India approach. Some viewers have debated scenes in the trailer that show Sita in action, compared with traditional retellings [CHECK].
Where Is Hanuman in Ramayana 2026?
Sunny Deol is confirmed as Hanuman, but he has been notably absent from most Part 1 posters and promos [CHECK]. The reason is likely story structure. In the epic, Rama meets Hanuman after Sita is taken, during the search in Kishkindha.
If Part 1 ends around Sita’s abduction, Hanuman’s big moments naturally belong to Part 2. We break down this theory in detail in our piece on why Sunny Deol’s Hanuman is missing from Ramayana Part 1 promos.
The Team Behind the Camera
A strong cast needs a strong crew, and this project has pulled in names from both Indian and global cinema.
- Director: Nitesh Tiwari, known for Dangal and Chhichhore [CHECK].
- Screenplay: Shridhar Raghavan and Nitesh Tiwari; dialogues by Shreyas Jain and Tiwari [CHECK].
- Music: A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer [CHECK].
- Visual effects: DNEG, the studio linked to Dune and a multiple Oscar winner for VFX [CHECK].
- Action team: Terry Notary and Guy Norris [CHECK].
- Cinematography: Mahesh Limaye and Pankaj Kumar [CHECK].
Why the Rahman–Zimmer pairing matters
Hans Zimmer has scored Dune, Interstellar and The Lion King. This is his first full score for an Indian film [CHECK]. Paired with Rahman, the music aims to sound both rooted and global, which suits a film built for worldwide release.
Who is distributing the film?
Sony Pictures handles distribution outside India, while Dharma Productions distributes in the Hindi-speaking market [CHECK]. Having a Hollywood studio push an Indian mythological film globally is rare, and it explains the IMAX-heavy campaign.
How Big Is the Ramayana 2026 Budget?
The combined budget for both parts is about ₹4,000 crore, roughly US$480–500 million depending on the exchange rate used [CHECK]. Yash clarified at the October trailer event that this figure covers both films, post-production and promotional costs [CHECK].
That clarification matters, because some outlets have reported a ₹2,000 crore figure for Part 1 alone [CHECK]. Here is a simple way to read the numbers:
- ₹4,000 crore is the total for the two-film project, including marketing.
- Per-film cost has not been officially split, so any Part 1 number is an estimate.
- Comparison: Even half that amount would still exceed most earlier Indian blockbusters [CHECK].
Common budget myth to avoid
Do not compare the ₹4,000 crore figure directly with another film’s production-only budget. This total includes global distribution and marketing. Comparing like with like gives you a more honest picture.
Ramayana 2026 Trailers: What We Have Seen So Far
The marketing has rolled out in stages, each aimed at a different audience.
- First look (July 2025): A short reveal introducing the world and the two-part plan [CHECK].
- Official trailer (July 30, 2026): Released in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam [CHECK].
- English trailer (August 5, 2026): The cast’s performances were lip-synced to English using an AI tool, with some shots tweaked [CHECK].
- International trailer (October 15, 2026): Launched at a Bengaluru event with the main cast present [CHECK]. Reports highlighted a Jatayu battle sequence [CHECK].
Director S.S. Rajamouli reportedly praised the trailer’s scale [CHECK]. On the other side, some viewers questioned specific creative choices. Both reactions are normal for a story that millions know by heart.
What “Filmed for IMAX” means
Marketing has stressed that the film was made with IMAX in mind [CHECK]. In practice, this usually means certain sequences use an expanded aspect ratio, filling more of the tall IMAX screen. You only see that extra image area in a certified IMAX theatre. Details are explained on the official IMAX website.
What Story Does Ramayana Part 1 Cover?
The makers have not published a scene-by-scene plot, but the basics are clear. Part 1 follows Prince Rama of Ayodhya, his exile, and the rising conflict with Ravana [CHECK].
Based on the epic’s structure and trailer footage, Part 1 likely covers:
- Rama’s early life and his bond with Sita and Lakshman
- Kaikeyi’s demand and Manthara’s influence, leading to the 14-year exile
- Life in the forest and the encounter with Surpanakha
- Ravana’s abduction of Sita and Jatayu’s fight to stop him [CHECK]
Many observers expect Part 1 to end around Sita’s abduction, but this is an informed assumption, not an official statement [CHECK]. Part 2 would then cover the search, Hanuman, the bridge to Lanka and the final war.
New to the Ramayana? A quick primer
You do not need to know the epic to enjoy the film, but some context helps. Rama is the righteous heir to Ayodhya’s throne. Sita is his wife, Lakshman his loyal brother. Ravana is the powerful king of Lanka. The central conflict is about duty, loyalty and the fight between right and wrong.
How Long Is Ramayana 2026, and What Is Its Rating?
Reports put the runtime at about 3 hours 15 minutes, or 195 minutes, based on an IMAX listing [CHECK]. That makes it one of the longest major Indian releases of the year.
On certification, the trailer received a U certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) [CHECK]. Reports also say the film has a PG-13 rating in the United States [CHECK]. Check the final Indian certificate shown on your booking page.
Tips for a three-hour-plus film
- Book a show that ends at a time that works for your commute home.
- Pick seats near an aisle if you are watching with kids.
- Eat before the show so you are not stepping out during key scenes.
How to Watch Ramayana 2026: Formats, Languages and Tickets
Part 1 releases in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam across India, in IMAX and other premium formats [CHECK]. Advance bookings opened on Dussehra [CHECK]. Early tracking showed about ₹4.9 crore in Day 1 pre-sales around two weeks before release [CHECK].
Step-by-step: booking the best show
- Choose your language. Hindi is the original version. Dubbed versions suit viewers more comfortable in their own language.
- Decide on format. IMAX shows the expanded image. Other premium large formats offer bigger screens and better sound but may not show the full IMAX ratio.
- Book early for opening weekend. Festival-week demand is high, and premium screens sell out first.
- Check the screen listing. Make sure “IMAX” is a certified IMAX screen, not just a “large screen” label.
- Pick your seat row. In IMAX, sit in the middle third of the hall for the best view of the tall image.
Format comparison
| Format | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| IMAX | Full expanded aspect ratio and immersive sound | Highest ticket price, limited screens |
| Premium large format | Big screen and strong audio | May not show the extra IMAX image area |
| Standard 2D | Budget-friendly, more show timings | Less scale for VFX-heavy scenes |
Mistakes to avoid
- Do not trust unofficial “leaked” release dates; stick to the makers’ and distributors’ announcements.
- Avoid buying tickets from social media resellers. Use official cinema or ticketing apps.
- Stay off spoiler-heavy hashtags on opening day if you are watching later.
Box Office Expectations for Ramayana 2026
With a budget this size, expectations are huge. Trade analyst Ramesh Bala has estimated that a strong start would need an India net opening of ₹100–125 crore and a worldwide gross of ₹175–200 crore on Day 1 [CHECK]. These are estimates, not targets set by the makers.
A few factors work in the film’s favour:
- Festival timing: The release sits right at the start of Diwali week.
- Limited clashes: Reports suggest no other big Indian release is scheduled in November 2026 [CHECK].
- Global push: Sony’s international distribution and IMAX placement open markets most Indian films never reach.
The two-part model also matters. Indian audiences have shown they will follow a story across instalments when the first chapter delivers. The Drishyam films are a good example of this loyalty, as we explored in our piece on why the Drishyam series is so popular. Ramayana’s real test is whether Part 1 builds that same pull toward Part 2.
Why Ramayana 2026 Matters for Indian Cinema
This film is about more than one weekend’s collections. It tests whether an Indian story can be packaged as a global event, the way Hollywood launches its tentpoles.
- Global talent: Zimmer, DNEG and a Hollywood action team working on an Indian epic is a first at this scale.
- AI in dubbing: The English trailer’s AI lip sync could change how Indian films travel abroad [CHECK].
- Multi-part planning: Two films planned and shot as one story, with fixed festival dates, is still rare in India.
If it works, expect more studios to treat Indian myths and history as global franchises. If it struggles, budgets for similar projects may be scaled back.
Final Thoughts on Ramayana 2026
Ramayana 2026 brings together Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi and a world-class crew for one of the most ambitious Indian films ever made. Part 1 lands on November 5, 2026, in five languages and premium formats, with Part 2 planned for Diwali 2027 [CHECK].
Your next step is simple. Decide your language and format, then book through an official app before festival demand peaks. If you want to know more about the characters held back for Part 2, start with our deep dive on Hanuman’s absence from the promos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ramayana 2026 suitable for children?
Yes, it should be. The trailer received a U certificate from the CBFC, and reports suggest the film has also been cleared with a U certificate in India. In the United States, it reportedly carries a PG-13 rating. Parents should still check the final certificate on their ticketing app before booking for very young children.
Will Ramayana 2026 release on OTT?
No OTT release date has been announced yet. The makers are positioning Ramayana: Part 1 as a theatrical-first event, with heavy focus on IMAX and premium formats. Most big Indian releases reach streaming platforms several weeks after their cinema run, but any OTT date or platform should be treated as speculation until officially confirmed.
Is Ramayana 2026 based on Valmiki’s Ramayana?
Yes. The film is credited as being based on Valmiki’s Ramayana, the ancient Sanskrit epic. Director Nitesh Tiwari and co-writer Shridhar Raghavan have adapted it into a two-part screenplay. Some creative choices, such as an action-oriented portrayal of Sita seen in trailers, have sparked debate among viewers about faithfulness to traditional texts.
Who sings and composes the songs in Ramayana 2026?
The music is composed by A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer. This is Zimmer’s first full film score for an Indian movie, after contributing one track to an earlier Hindi release. Full song and singer credits for the soundtrack album should be checked on official music platforms once the album is released.
How many parts will the Ramayana film series have?
The Ramayana film series has two parts. Ramayana: Part 1 releases worldwide on November 5, 2026, and Ramayana: Part 2 is planned for Diwali 2027. The combined ₹4,000 crore budget covers both films. Ranbir Kapoor has said that fitting the epic into just two films was a difficult creative challenge.
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