Credit TOI
SAN DIEGO — In a major moment for Indian cinema on the global stage, the core team behind the upcoming mythological spectacle Ramayana—lead actors Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, director Nitesh Tiwari, and producer Namit Malhotra—took over Ballroom 20 at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC).
The high-profile panel offered fans an exclusive sneak peek, debuting the film’s trailer along with select clips and music. Following an engaging Q&A session moderated by Coy Jandreau, the stars posed for selfies with an enthusiastic audience in images that quickly went viral across social media.
Global Distribution & Heavyweight Promotion
The Comic-Con appearance coincided with producer Namit Malhotra’s announcement of a major international distribution alliance with Sony Pictures Entertainment, which will handle the film’s release outside India.
Key financial highlights surrounding the release include:
Marketing Investment: A combined promotional spend of USD 40 million (₹375 crore), with Sony Pictures contributing approximately USD 25 million (₹235 crore) and the producers adding USD 15 million (~₹140 crore).
Production Scale: Ramayana: Part One is estimated to have a production and release budget between ₹1,400 crore and ₹1,500 crore, with the overall two-part saga projected at around USD 500 million (~₹4,000 crore).
“Our ambition has always been to honour that legacy while creating a cinematic experience worthy of audiences everywhere,” said producer Namit Malhotra in a official statement. “Collaborating with Sony Pictures gives Ramayana an extraordinary opportunity to connect with international audiences.”
Embodying Ram and Ravana
During the panel discussion, lead actors Ranbir Kapoor (playing Lord Ram) and KGF star Yash (playing Ravana and also serving as co-producer) shared insights into stepping into these iconic roles:
Ranbir Kapoor spoke candidly about taking on the role of Lord Ram, describing initial feelings of doubt before embracing it as a once-in-a-lifetime privilege and a deep moral responsibility.
Yash highlighted his approach to Ravana as cinema’s original complex anti-hero, expressing high praise for Kapoor’s dedication to bringing Lord Ram to life.
Directed by Dangal hitmaker Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part One is targeting a worldwide theatrical release around Diwali 2026.
