Nitesh Tiwari’s much-anticipated two-part epic Ramayana is being designed with separate versions for Indian and international audiences. According to a recent report, the English cut of the film will be nearly 30 minutes shorter than the Hindi version, with certain scenes trimmed and songs omitted to create a crisper edit for overseas viewers.

Ramayana to have separate cuts for Indian and global audiences

According to Variety India, Ramayana will have distinct edits for the Indian and international markets. The English version will reportedly omit the songs and trim certain portions of the film, resulting in a runtime that is nearly 30 minutes shorter than the Hindi cut. The decision is reportedly based on differences in viewing preferences across markets. While Indian audiences are accustomed to longer theatrical films that incorporate songs as part of the storytelling experience, the makers believe a more streamlined version would be better suited to international audiences. The songs, which are not essential to moving the central narrative forward, will reportedly be retained in the Indian-language versions to add emotional depth and enhance the cinematic experience.

Ramayana is being positioned as a global-scale epic

The separate cuts reflect the scale of the makers’ international ambitions for Ramayana. The film is being mounted as a large-scale cinematic adaptation of one of India’s most revered epics, while also being tailored for audiences unfamiliar with the traditional Indian storytelling format.‘Ramayana: Part 1’ is scheduled to release internationally, including in the US, on November 6, 2026. The film is then set to arrive in Indian theatres on November 8, 2026, timed around the Diwali period. The film is expected to have a multilingual global rollout, with the English version forming an important part of its international release strategy.

Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi lead the star-studded cast

Produced by Namit Malhotra, Ramayana features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama and Sai Pallavi as Sita. The cast also includes Ravie Dubey as Lakshman, Yash as Ravana and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. The film has been mounted on an expansive scale, with the makers bringing together an international technical team for the ambitious project. Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman are associated with the film’s music and score, further adding to its global positioning.With its combination of Indian mythology, large-scale visual effects and an international production approach, ‘Ramayana’ is being positioned as a theatrical spectacle aimed at audiences in India as well as overseas.

‘Ramayana: Part 2’ eyes Diwali 2027 release

The second instalment, ‘Ramayana: Part 2’, is currently slated to release during Diwali 2027, although a firm release date has not yet been finalised.