Ranbir Kapoor-Sai Pallavi-Yash's Ramayana reveal on hold: Middle East crisis forces mythological epic makers to defer Gateway of India event
Nitesh Tiwari’s ₹4000-crore Ramayana delay: Global tensions stall the Ram Navami reveal. Part 1, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, aims for a Diwali 2026 release with a strategic worldwide rollout.
Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash
Last Updated: 01.04 PM, Mar 08, 2026
Nitesh Tiwari's high-stakes Ramayana adaptation has encountered an unforeseen obstacle in its commercial rollout. Producer Namit Malhotra has chosen to delay the highly anticipated showcase of the film's protagonists, despite careful preparation and the selection of a prominent location. The event was meant to introduce the main cast officially to the public and was originally slated to take place on March 26, coinciding with the Ram Navami festival.
How did global geopolitical tensions affect the Mumbai showcase of Ramayana?
The rising US-Israel-Iran tension reportedly impacted the decision to delay the launch, as sources close to the production informed Mid Day. Due to the increased worldwide tension caused by geopolitical uncertainty, the makers have decided that a promotional event of this scale, which is meant to be joyous, would be held at the wrong moment. People at the showcase, set to take place at Mumbai's famous Gateway of India, were hoping to get their first official glimpses of the actors in their respective parts.
Someone familiar with the production's plans explained the delay, emphasising the film's international ambitions. Launching Ram Navami was meant to be a big deal for the film, but Ramayana isn't a local production; it's a worldwide phenomenon with viewers all over the world. The insider informed the tabloid that the makers felt the current global scenario was not the best setting to reveal such critical material.
Is the production team reconsidering their fast-paced rollout strategy?
According to the insider, the production team is determined to roll out strategically and is not in the mood to share promotional assets quickly given the current situation.
Tiwari's Ramayana: Part 1 is being marketed as one of the most lavish and ambitious endeavours in Indian cinematic history. The two-part epic, produced by Prime Focus Studios (headed by Namit Malhotra) and Monster Mind Creations (Yash's production company), reportedly has a budget of around ₹4,000 crore. A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer, two musical titans, and DNEG, a visual effects studio that has won eight Oscars, are among the high-profile international talent that the production has enlisted.
Who is starring in this star-studded epic of Ramayana, and what is the distribution goal?
Ranbir Kapoor plays the role of Lord Ram, and Sai Pallavi plays the role of Sita, among many other talented actors. Sunny Deol will portray Hanuman, and KGF franchise star Yash will play Ravana. Ravi Dubey and Lara Dutta are also important cast members, playing Lakshman and Kaikeyi, respectively. The makers are reportedly trying to time their worldwide distribution strategy for a more stable international context so that their massive investment can have the greatest possible influence on the market.
Even though the Ram Navami event is no longer happening, the makers still intend to launch promotional campaigns in the months leading up to May 2026. It is anticipated that this change in schedule will not impact the film's theatrical distribution. The first instalment of Ramayana: Part One is still expected to have a major release around Diwali in 2026, while the second part is expected to be released in 2027. Industry insiders and fans alike are holding off on revealing any details about the "World of Ramayana" until the global climate improves.
Ramayana FAQs:
Q: What is the total budget of Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana?
A: The two-part epic, Ramayana, is being produced with a combined budget of approximately ₹4,000 crore (around $500 million). This makes it one of the most expensive cinematic projects in Indian history, comparable to major Hollywood productions in terms of scale and investment.
Q: Who is in the lead cast of Ramayana: Part One?
A: Ramayana features a star-studded ensemble including Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, and Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi.
Q: When will Ramayana: Part One be released in theatres?
A: Despite the delay in promotional events, the theatrical release date remains unchanged. Ramayana: Part One is slated for a grand worldwide release during the Diwali 2026 window, with the second installment expected in 2027.