Mumbai: Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming mythological epic Ramayana is reportedly set to take Indian cinema back to one of the world’s biggest film markets. According to a media report, the makers are planning to release the Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi-starrer in China, alongside a large-scale promotional campaign ahead of its theatrical release.
If the plans receive approval, Ramayana could become one of the first major Hindi films in recent years to receive a Chinese theatrical release, potentially reopening the market for Bollywood after a prolonged gap.
The reported move carries added significance as Nitesh Tiwari’s Dangal remains the highest-grossing Indian film in China. The sports drama, based on wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters Geeta and Babita, created history at the Chinese box office and remains unbeaten among Indian releases in the country.
Following the success of Dangal, Bollywood’s presence in China gradually declined, with no major Hindi film receiving a wide Chinese-dubbed theatrical release after 2020.
Makers reportedly planning China promotional tour
According to a report by Midday, director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra are in discussions with Chinese exhibitors and distributors to organise a four-day promotional tour for Ramayana.
The campaign is expected to feature lead actors Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi. As per the report, the proposed schedule includes a press event and a special screening at the Pingyao International Film Festival on September 24.
The promotional activities are also expected to continue with a multi-city tour during China’s Golden Week, beginning on October 1. However, the report added that the final plan is still awaiting approval from Chinese authorities and exhibitors.
Apart from promoting the film, the makers are also reportedly working towards securing a theatrical release across China.
Trailer launch scheduled for July 24
Ahead of the film’s theatrical release, the makers are set to unveil the official trailer on July 24 at a grand event in Delhi.
The event is expected to be attended by Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, Sai Pallavi, Sunny Deol, Ravi Dubey, director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra. The trailer launch is likely to offer audiences their first detailed look at the ambitious adaptation of the Indian epic.
A two-part cinematic spectacle
Ramayana has been conceived as a two-part franchise.
The first instalment is scheduled to release in theatres during Diwali 2026, while the second part is expected to arrive in 2027.
The film is directed by Nitesh Tiwari and jointly produced by Namit Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios and Yash’s Monster Mind Creations. It is among the most ambitious Indian film projects in recent years and combines large-scale visual effects with a retelling of one of India’s most celebrated epics.
The music is another major highlight of the project. Academy Award-winning composer Hans Zimmer is making his Bollywood debut alongside legendary Indian composer A.R. Rahman, who has co-composed the film’s soundtrack.
Star-studded cast
Ranbir Kapoor leads the cast as Lord Rama, while Sai Pallavi portrays Goddess Sita.
Kannada superstar Yash will make his major Hindi film appearance as Ravana. Sunny Deol has been cast as Lord Hanuman, with Ravi Dubey playing Lakshman.
The supporting cast also includes Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari, Arun Govil as King Dashrath, Vivek Oberoi as Vidyutjihva, Kunal Kapoor as Lord Indra, Adinath Kothare as Bharat and Mohit Raina, who is expected to portray Lord Shiva.
The first part of the franchise has completed filming, while production on Ramayana: Part Two is currently underway.
China release could boost Bollywood’s global reach
Although the China release has not yet been officially confirmed by the makers, the reported plans indicate a strong push to position Ramayana as a global cinematic event.
If the release goes ahead, the film could help revive Bollywood’s presence in China while introducing the epic Indian story to a wider international audience. With its ensemble cast, large-scale production and international music collaboration, Ramayana is shaping up to be one of the biggest Indian film releases of 2026.
Comments are closed.