'Ramayana' eyes Rs 450 crore for Hindi theatrical distribution rights; aims for Rs 1,000 crore for digital rights alone: Reports

Filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra are pulling out all the stops to script 'Ramayana' box office success. Now, according to the latest reports, the film may just be raking in the big bucks even beofre it makes its ways to screens worldwide.According to the latest reports, the ambitious mythological epic is already generating massive buzz in trade circles ahead of its planned Diwali 2026 release. As per the latest chatter, the makers are aiming for record-breaking deals for the distribution of theatrical and digital streaming rights.According to Variety India, producer Namit Malhotra is currently in discussions with several major distribution players, for the domestic distribution of the two-part cinematic saga. What has particularly caught the attention of the trade is the reported asking price of a jaw-dropping Rs 450 crore for the Hindi theatrical distribution rights alone. Trade analysts believe that even a deal in the range of Rs 300–400 crore could set a new benchmark.For comparison, reports indicate that the current benchmark for a Hindi film distribution deal is tied to 'King', starring Shah Rukh Khan, which was reportedly acquired for approximately Rs 250 crore.Apart from theatrical rights, the report also states the team is also eyeing a huge paycheque for its digital and satellite rights. According to industry chatter, producer Malhotra allegedly turned down a reported Rs 700 crore offer from Netflix for the combined streaming rights of both instalments. However, as per the report, the makers are now reportedly hoping to land a Rs 1,000 crore deal for the film's digital rights alone.Made on a budget of around Rs 4,000 crore, trade experts are already projecting a historic theatrical run for the film, with some estimates suggesting domestic collections could range between Rs 1,000 crore and Rs 1,500 crore, while worldwide earnings may potentially hit the Rs 2,500 crore mark, thus becoming the highest-earning Indian film of all time.The project boasts a star-studded cast, including Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Yash as Ravana, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita and Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman.'Ramayana: Part I' is slated to release on Diwali 2026, while 'Part II' is slated to hit the big screens next Diwali.