Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions has landed one of the biggest film distribution deals of the year by acquiring the Indian theatrical distribution rights for Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious mythological epic Ramayana. The reported agreement, valued at Rs 250 crore, brings together producer Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios, Yash’s Monster Mind Creations and Dharma Productions ahead of the film’s Diwali 2026 release. The move further strengthens Dharma Productions’ Ramayana distribution as one of the most talked-about collaborations in Indian cinema.
Dharma Productions steps in for nationwide release
According to The Indian Express, the Dharma Productions Ramayana distribution deal was finalised after discussions between the filmmakers and multiple distributors. According to industry reports, Namit Malhotra showcased a 30-minute edit of the film to potential buyers before negotiations with Dharma Productions gathered pace.
The initial discussions reportedly began at Rs 500 crore before both sides settled on a Rs 250 crore agreement for exclusive distribution across India. The deal marks another major addition to Dharma Productions’ growing portfolio of large-scale pan-India releases.
The production house has previously distributed blockbuster films, including Baahubali, The Ghazi Attack, 2.0 and Devara: Part 1. The latest acquisition reinforces the company’s strategy of backing event films with nationwide appeal.
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Star-studded cast powers Ramayana
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part 1 features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. The ensemble cast also includes Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravi Dubey as Lakshman, Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, Kajal Aggarwal, Vivek Oberoi, Rakul Preet Singh, Sheeba Chaddha, Indira Krishnan and Kunal Kapoor.
The two-part adaptation is reportedly mounted on a massive budget of around Rs 4,000 crore, making it one of the most expensive Indian film projects ever produced.
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High expectations before Diwali release
According to The Indian Express, the Dharma Productions Ramayana distribution partnership arrives as excitement around the film continues to build. The first instalment has completed filming and is currently in post-production, while work on the second part has entered pre-production.
Adding to the scale of the project, Academy Award-winning composers AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer are collaborating on the film’s music. Trade experts believe the franchise has the potential to become one of Indian cinema’s biggest box office successes when it releases during the Diwali festive window later this year.
With Dharma Productions’ Ramayana distribution now confirmed, industry attention will shift to the film’s promotional campaign, which is expected to begin in the coming months as anticipation for the epic continues to grow.
