Entertainment
oi-Oneindia Staff
Dharma Productions has reportedly come on board as the Indian distributor for Ramayana, the much-awaited mythological epic starring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash.
Dharma Productions has secured Indian distribution rights for Nitesh Tiwari’s epic ‘Ramayana,’ starring Ranbir Kapoor as Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita, reportedly for ₹250 crore, with Warner Bros. handling international distribution and the first installment slated for a Diwali release.
According to Variety India, producer Namit Malhotra recently screened a specially edited 30-minute preview of the film for few studios as part of the distribution process. The presentation reportedly received an enthusiastic response, with Dharma Productions and ended up securing the domestic distribution rights after negotiations.
The report states that the discussions initially began at around ₹500 crore before the deal was eventually closed at ₹250 crore. Neither the makers nor Dharma Productions have officially confirmed the figures.
The India distribution will now be handled by Dharma Productions and international distribution for the first instalment will be handled by Warner Bros. Pictures.
About Ramayana
Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, is a two-part adaptation of the ancient Indian epic. Ranbir Kapoor is featured as Lord Rama, with Sai Pallavi playing Goddess Sita. Kannada superstar Yash takes on the role of Ravana. The cast also includes Ravie Dubey as Lakshman and Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman.
The supporting cast features Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Arun Govil as King Dashrath, Indira Krishnan as Queen Kaushalya, Sheeba Chadha as Manthara, Adinath Kothare as Bharat and Kunal Kapoor as Lord Indra.
Ramayana is backed by Namit Malhotra who is the founder of Prime Focus and CEO of DNEG. Ever since its announcement, Ramayana has been one of the most talked-about Indian films.
The music is being composed by Academy Award winners Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman. The project marks the first time the two celebrated composers have worked together on an Indian film.
The first chapter of Ramayana is slated to release in theatres during the Diwali festive season.
