Entertainment

Ramayana’s Early Diwali Release Sparks Debate on Box‑Office Potential

By Fenil Seta

Ramayana is set to hit theatres on November 5, four days before Diwali, a move that has drawn mixed reactions from the trade and industry. The film’s release date places its fifth day of run on the festival itself, a period traditionally considered less favorable for cinema attendance due to holiday activities. Trade veteran Taran Adarsh described the timing as a “gutsy move,” noting that if the film sells 600,000 tickets before release at the highest possible average ticket price, it could earn over ₹100 crore on its opening day. He added that while many people are busy with Diwali preparations, a strong segment of moviegoers would still attend a film like Ramayana, and that the release is well‑timed for the season.

Vishek Chauhan, owner of Roopbani Cinema in Purnia, Bihar, said the pre‑Diwali release could be a disadvantage because people are occupied with festivities, but he also acknowledged that the makers appear confident in the film’s opening. He noted that the decision benefits exhibitors, allowing them to earn before the festival and giving producers an extended festive first week. Chauhan called the release a “win‑win” for exhibitors and producers.

Trade analyst Atul Mohan clarified that the film is not a pre‑Diwali release but falls within the Diwali week, with Diwali on Sunday and the film opening on Thursday. He highlighted the film’s appeal to parents and the advantage of modern visual effects, noting that the presence of stars such as Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, and Sunny Deol could attract a broad audience.

Distributor and exhibitor Raj Bansal pointed out that earlier versions of the Ramayan TV series did not feature major stars, whereas the current film casts popular actors in key roles, potentially drawing viewers who may not be familiar with the epic. He also mentioned that the labour class and families are busy with celebrations, which can keep them away from cinemas during Diwali and similar periods.

The film’s release strategy has sparked discussion about its potential box‑office performance and the impact of festival timing on audience turnout.