The Nitesh Tiwari-directed epic is targeting a Diwali release in India, while international audiences are expected to see the film two days earlier
Hyderabad: Fans in India may have to wait two extra days to watch Nitesh Tiwari’s highly anticipated epic Ramayana on the big screen. The film, starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana, is scheduled for an international release before its planned Indian premiere.
Producer Namit Malhotra has now clarified the reason behind the difference in release dates.
International Release on November 6, India on November 8
According to Malhotra, Ramayana is scheduled to release internationally on November 6, 2026, while the makers are currently targeting November 8, 2026, during the Diwali period, for its release in India.
Explaining the schedule in an interview, Malhotra said the international release is planned for Friday, November 6, in line with the international distribution calendar. In India, however, the makers are targeting a Diwali release on November 8.
This means international audiences could get their first theatrical look at the epic two days before Indian audiences.
Why the Overseas Release Comes First
The difference is primarily linked to regional release calendars and distribution practices rather than any decision to prioritize overseas audiences over India.
The international release falls on a Friday, which is a standard theatrical release day in many overseas markets. The Indian release is being aligned with the Diwali holiday period, which falls later that weekend.
Earlier, Sony Pictures announced the film’s release date on X and also unveiled an English-language trailer, which appears to be connected to the movie’s international release campaign.
Ramayana Targets a Global Audience
The clarification comes as the makers increasingly position Ramayana as a global cinematic event.
Malhotra has also revealed that the film’s promotional campaign has already achieved a major milestone. According to him, the trailer crossed one billion views within five days of its release, highlighting the enormous interest surrounding the project.
With a large international production footprint and an ensemble featuring major Indian stars, Ramayana is being positioned for audiences beyond India as well.
Is an Oscar in the Plans?
Given the film’s international ambitions, Malhotra was also asked whether the project is being developed with an Academy Award in mind.
The producer clarified that winning an Oscar was not the primary objective behind the project. However, he said recognition from an institution that honors leading filmmakers and creators worldwide would be a significant moment for India.
Malhotra emphasized that the central ambition behind Ramayana is not an award but to create a film that can achieve global recognition and showcase Indian storytelling on an international scale.
The Big Release Ahead
With Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash in the lead roles and Nitesh Tiwari directing, Ramayana is among the most anticipated Indian films of 2026.
If the current schedule remains unchanged, overseas audiences will watch the film from November 6, while Indian audiences will get the film during the Diwali period from November 8, 2026.
