Ramayana Makers Turn Down Massive OTT Deal, Bet Big on Global Theatrical Release

In a move that has stunned industry circles, producer Namit Malhotra has rejected a colossal OTT deal for his upcoming mythological epic Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Yash. Multiple reports suggest the digital rights offer ranged between ₹700 crore to ₹1000 crore: figures that would have broken every existing record for Indian cinema.

What makes this decision truly remarkable is the sheer audacity of turning down guaranteed revenue when most producers would leap at such numbers. Malhotra's confidence stems from his belief that Ramayana deserves a valuation closer to ₹1000 crore, reflecting the film's unprecedented scale and global ambitions. This isn't just about money: it's about positioning the project as a worldwide cinematic event rather than settling for early monetization.

The producer's strategy makes perfect sense when you consider the film's staggering fundamentals. With a combined budget estimated at around ₹4000 crore across both parts, Ramayana is positioned as the most expensive Indian film franchise ever attempted. The massive investment covers grand sets, high-quality costumes, high-scale action sequences, advanced VFX, and premium cast fees.

The film's commercial prospects look formidable with its stellar ensemble. Ranbir Kapoor commands ₹75 crore per part, totaling ₹150 crore for both films, while Yash takes home ₹50 crore per installment, earning ₹100 crore overall. These astronomical fees reflect the industry's confidence in the project's box office potential.

Malhotra's gamble appears well-calculated. The first part releases during Diwali 2026, traditionally cinema's biggest window, while the collaboration between Oscar-winner Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman adds serious international appeal. By holding back on early digital deals, the makers are clearly positioning this as India's answer to global franchises like Marvel or Avatar.

This bold rejection signals a new era of confidence in Indian cinema's global reach. Rather than playing it safe with guaranteed OTT money, Malhotra is betting that Ramayana's mythological legacy, combined with cutting-edge filmmaking, will deliver returns that dwarf any digital deal. It's a high-stakes gamble that could redefine how Indian producers approach mega-budget projects.