Producer Namit Malhotra has offered the clearest sign yet that Ramayana may not end at two films. Speaking to international media during the Los Angeles premiere, he revealed that the mythological epic was originally developed as a trilogy before the team decided to tell the story in two parts.
No third film has been confirmed. But Malhotra kept the possibility alive, saying audience response could bring the makers back to the table once the films are out.
“We started out the film, we were going to make it in three (parts), then we decided to make it in two,” he said.
He added that the team is still filming, so no spoilers, but “who knows the way” once feedback arrives. Depending on how the world receives it, he said, the makers may see if there is anything to add or subtract.
Two versions of Part 1 are already on the table
Malhotra confirmed that Ramayana: Part 1 currently has two cuts with different runtimes. The team is using feedback to decide whether a single cut can work for viewers worldwide or whether an extended cut should be considered.
He compared the situation to the extended editions of The Lord of the Rings, noting that there is enough material to warrant a separate version within the same master. For now, both runtimes are being assessed as the release approaches.
There is also a clear preference. Malhotra said he would like to avoid releasing two different versions, and that director Nitesh Tiwari would likely prefer one version for the world.
The big canvas
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part 1 – Rise of a Legend is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on November 5, 2026, in standard and IMAX formats. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman.
The original score comes from Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman. Malhotra’s Prime Focus Studios is producing with DNEG and Monster Mind Creations.
- Original plan: three parts, later trimmed to two
- Current status: two cuts of Part 1 with different runtimes
- Release: November 5, 2026, in standard and IMAX
- Music: Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman
Why feedback could decide the saga’s shape
For a production of this scale, a third part is not a small statement. It would extend the story, the schedule and the investment. That is why Malhotra’s comments matter: the audience’s verdict on Rise of a Legend may determine whether the two-film plan stands or whether the original trilogy idea returns.
The release is only days away, so the first box-office numbers and social conversations will be the early signal. If the appetite is strong, the talk around Ramayana 3 could shift quickly from possible to an active discussion.
Source: bollywoodHungama.com