Ranbir Kapoor is reportedly being paid a massive fee in advance for the upcoming Ramayana trilogy. Here’s everything you need to know about this epic mythological venture, the money, and the buzz around the biggest Bollywood project ever.
Bollywood superstar Ranbir Kapoor has again
demonstrated his appeal as one of India’s most bankable stars. The Animal star has reportedly gotten a large portion of his remuneration upfront for Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana*, a larger-than-life mythological saga that is proclaimed to change Indian cinema. This is sending shockwaves through the film industry and has been buzzing on social media sites, namely X (previously known as Twitter) and on Instagram reels.
Ranbir Kapoor: The Considered Ram
Since the news of Ranbir Kapoor portraying Lord Ram, fans have been steeped in both skepticism and curiosity. The actor who has made himself known for his serious roles and past successes at the box office, is taking on 600 days for the role over the course of the trilogy.
From multiple credible sources, reports like that of Bollywood Hungama and Pinkvilla, suggest that Ranbir has already received a portion of his fee (initially estimated at ₹75 crore) for the first part of the movie, whereas the full deal for all three films is expected to exceed ₹150 crore.
Why Was He Paid So Early?
This early payment move is part of Madhu Mantena and Nitesh Tiwari’s thinking of locking their lead star on the project for multiple years. Here are some merits of locking:
Scheduling power: By locking Ranbir’s dates, you can avoid schedule delay.
Commitment guarantee: By paying early, it ensures that the actor stays attached to all three parts of the trilogy.
Investor trust: A-list star power can help raise large amounts of money from international investors and OTT players like Amazon Prime, Netflix, etc.
Inside the Ramayana Trilogy: Budget, Cast & Crew
The Vision
Nitesh Tiwari, who directed Dangal, is bringing a newly seen scale to the screen. this movie trilogy will be developed with a purported cost of ₹750–900 crore making it at-par with Hollywood’s Lord of the Rings or India’s Baahubali.
Cast Line-up
Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram
Sai Pallavi as Sita (Confirmed)
Yash as Ravana (Likely)
Sunny Deol as Hanuman (Expected)
Lara Dutta, Vijay Sethupathi, and Arun Govil are rumoured for major roles.
Filming Timeline
The first schedule was started in Mumbai’s Film City with significant security measurement and the “No Phone Policy”. The makers are using VFX technology which boasted to be similar (or at-par with) the technology used in films such as Avatar: The Way of Water and The Lion King, to recreate Ayodhya, Lanka, and other settings.
What Makes Ramayana a Cinematic Spectacle Worth Crores?
1. Mythology + Technology
Indian audiences have such a cultural and emotional connection with this movie story, that it will always be evergreen. The difference this time is that it will be filmed using the best CGI and 3D technologies to create the illusion of gods walking on the screen with epic realism.
2. Pan-Indian and International
With Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, the filmmakers are looking at Hindi and South Indian audiences. An English dub is being developed, and the film is also going to be pitched for international release in IMAX and 4DX form.
3. Franchise Model
Much like Marvel, or Harry Potter, Ramayana will be a three-part cinematic universe. One part of the master plan is merchandising, games, OTT spin-off’s, and theatrical re-releases. Ranbir being paid in advance is guaranteeing a long term commitment to a franchise model.
Ranbir’s Preparation: No Meat, No Alcohol, Strict meditation, and Training
Ranbir Kapoor prepared for his role by doing the following:
No non-veg food for more than 6 months
No alcohol, no late night parties
Dailey meditation and script reading
Rigorous physical training to get to a “Divine but strong” physique.
His level of commitment just reinforces how confident the filmmakers were to pay him before the project hit theaters.
Can Ramayana Really Shatter Records?
What is currently known:
Forecast Metric Forecast
1. Opening Day Box Office ₹100+ crore
2. Total Box Office ₹1500 – 2000 crore (All 3 parts)
3. OTT Rights ₹600 crore (to be expected with partners globally)
4. Merchandise & Licensing. ₹100 crore+
this movie etches itself into the hearts of audiences, it has the potential to outsell Baahubali, KGF, and even the legendary RRR in lifetime gross revenues.
Ranbir’s Career Overview: A Rise Before the Ram
Film Box Office Verdict
Animal (2023) Superhit
Brahmāstra Hit (Strong visual, divisive story)
Sanju Blockbuster
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil Hit
Jagga Jasoos Flop
Rockstar / Barfi Critical acclaim
Ranbir has had a topsy-turvy career but continues to remain churned out high-end accolades on a critical level, while also remaining a darling of brands, audiences, and filmmakers alike. It feels like only yesterday that he was touted as the romantic hero, and now, he is quickly transitioning into a mythological icon; that is cinematic lore.
Final Thoughts
Paying Ranbir Kapoor before the movie releases, is more than a financial commitment it is a statement of trust in an actor; a story and a realization that Indian cinema can promote and create epic stories on an epic scale.
From mythology to megastar; from screenplays to screen, Ranbir’s Ramayana trajectory is turning out to be the most anticipated cinematic event of the decade. If it all hatches well, Kapoor may not just walk away as a successful actor, but a lord, Ram, a modern-day face for the new generation.
FAQs
1: Why has Ranbir Kapoor been paid in advance for Ramayana movie?
A: The filmmakers wanted to lock Kapoor’s long-term commitment, for all three parts of the trilogy; this allowed them to gain confidence in scheduling and make an investment with trust.
2: How much is Ranbir Kapoor earning for Ramayana?
A: Reports suggest he will earn between ₹1000 crore and in significant advance payments, he has already been paid most of the salary.
3: Who is directing the movie trilogy?
A: Nitesh Tiwari – also known for Dangal, Chhichhore.
4: When will Ramayana movie Part 1 be released?
A: The expectation is late 2025 – early 2026, but as promotional strategy changes, there are no set release dates.