Mumbai: The upcoming epic Ramayana is already being hailed as one of the biggest cinematic events of 2026, with global anticipation continuing to build. Now, a prominent international exhibitor has predicted that the film could become India’s first true global theatrical blockbuster.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra under Prime Focus Studios, the ambitious two-part project is being mounted on an unprecedented scale. It is being co-produced with DNEG and Monster Mind Creations, backed by actor Yash.
Global endorsement at CinemaCon
John Fithian, founding partner at The Fithian Group, has expressed strong confidence in the film’s international prospects. Sharing his views after attending CinemaCon 2026 in Las Vegas, he stated that Ramayana could emerge as the first Indian film to achieve global blockbuster status in theatres.
Fithian revealed that leading exhibition companies from regions including the United States, Europe, Latin America, and Australia participated in private screenings and discussions around the film.
He noted that these stakeholders were shown exclusive footage featuring advanced visual effects and cutting-edge technology, which left a strong impression on global distributors.
Cutting-edge technology and scale
According to industry insiders, the film’s recently released glimpse showcasing Lord Rama has already generated excitement for its high-end VFX, immersive sound design, and large-scale storytelling.
The project is expected to utilise technologies that have not been widely seen in Indian cinema before, aiming to match global production standards and appeal to international audiences.
The collaboration with DNEG, an eight-time Oscar-winning VFX studio, further underscores the film’s technical ambitions.
Star power and global appeal
While the cast includes major names like Ranbir Kapoor, the film’s appeal is expected to go beyond star power. The universal familiarity of the Ramayana story, combined with modern cinematic treatment, is being positioned as a key factor in attracting audiences worldwide.
Industry observers believe the film could follow the path of recent Indian successes that gained international recognition, but on a much larger scale.
Strategic global rollout
The makers are planning a worldwide IMAX release, signalling a strong push for international markets. The two-part saga is scheduled for release during festive windows:
- Part 1: Diwali 2026
- Part 2: Diwali 2027
The extended timeline allows for sustained global engagement and marketing across multiple regions.
Industry expectations rise
Fithian’s endorsement has further heightened expectations around the project. He emphasised that discussions during CinemaCon focused not just on showcasing the film but also on devising tailored strategies for distribution and exhibition across different territories.
Such coordinated global planning is relatively rare for Indian films, indicating a shift towards more internationally focused releases.
Conclusion
With its масштаб scale, advanced technology, and global distribution strategy, Ramayana is shaping up to be a landmark project for Indian cinema. If it meets expectations, the film could redefine how Indian stories are presented and received on the world stage, potentially marking a new era for global theatrical success.
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