Filmmaker Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions has reportedly acquired the India-wide theatrical distribution rights for Ramayana: Part 1 in a deal valued at approximately ₹250 crore, making it one of the largest distribution agreements in recent Bollywood history.
According to industry reports, Dharma Productions finalized the agreement with producers Namit Malhotra’s DNEGand Yash’s Monster Mind Creations after multiple rounds of negotiations. The discussions reportedly began with a significantly higher valuation before both sides agreed on the ₹250 crore deal.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part 1 stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as Ravana. The ensemble cast also includes Sunny Deol, Ravi Dubey, Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, Kajal Aggarwal, and Rakul Preet Singh.
The film is the first installment of an ambitious two-part adaptation of the ancient Indian epic and is scheduled for a Diwali 2026 theatrical release. Backed by Oscar-winning visual effects studio DNEG, the project is widely regarded as one of the most ambitious and expensive Indian films ever produced.
For Dharma Productions, the acquisition strengthens its presence in the theatrical distribution business while positioning the company behind one of the year’s most anticipated releases. The reported ₹250 crore agreement reflects the industry’s strong confidence in Ramayana‘s commercial potential ahead of its nationwide release.
