Actor-producer Yash has addressed widespread speculation regarding the colossal ₹4,000 crore budget for Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming two-part cinematic adaptation of the Hindu epic, Ramayana. Appearing on the talk show Aap Ki Adalat, Yash clarified that the reported figure encompasses not just production costs but also the extensive global release and promotional expenses, aligning with international filmmaking standards.
Understanding the Ramayana Film Budget
Initial reports of a staggering $500 million (approximately ₹4,000 crore) budget for Ramayana had raised eyebrows among trade analysts and industry observers, prompting questions about its financial viability within the Indian film landscape. However, Yash, who portrays Ravana in the film and also serves as a co-producer alongside Namit Malhotra, stepped forward to demystify these figures.
"That is a misconception, so let me clarify it to everyone," Yash stated. "₹4000 crore is the budget for the two-part film, including release and promotion. It is the same as Hollywood... A budget equal to the film, or sometimes more, they spend on promotion because it is global. But the revenue is global too."
He emphasized that this approach mirrors the operational frameworks of Hollywood productions, where significant investments are allocated to marketing to ensure a global reach and corresponding global revenue streams.
Indian Cinema's Global Ambition
Yash articulated a broader vision for Indian cinema, asserting that adapting to international operational frameworks and embracing high-budget endeavors are not merely financial gambles but strategic necessities. He believes these steps are crucial for Indian storytelling to compete effectively on the world stage and expand its cultural footprint internationally.
“Cinema is a soft power,” Yash added. “All of us have to work really hard towards it. Whatever happens, we will work hard and do our job properly. If not today, then tomorrow we'll make it happen. If we don't, someone else will -, but it should happen.” He cited both Ramayana and his upcoming gangster drama, Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-Ups, as efforts to position Indian cinema as a global force.
In Ramayana, Yash stars alongside Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita. The ensemble cast also features prominent actors such as Sunny Deol, Ravie Dubey, Arun Govil, Lara Dutta, Rakul Preet Singh, Vivek Oberoi, and Kunal Kapoor. Ramayana Part One is slated for a worldwide theatrical release on November 6, ahead of Diwali. Prior to this, Yash's film Toxic is scheduled to release on August 26.