‘Ramayana’ paycheques: Male stars dominate as Sai Pallavi earns far less

The first teaser of 'Ramayana', directed by Nitesh Tiwari, was released on Friday, offering audiences an initial glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor in a multi-layered portrayal of Lord Rama.

Backed by an estimated budget exceeding ₹4,000 crore, the two-part epic is being positioned as the most ambitious project in Indian cinema to date, with a global theatrical rollout planned.

Industry reports suggest that Kapoor has been paid ₹75 crore per instalment, taking his total remuneration for the franchise to ₹150 crore, a significant increase from his previous earnings. By comparison, he reportedly earned ₹25–30 crore for Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva and around ₹30–35 crore, along with a profit share, for the blockbuster Animal.

Meanwhile, co-starring Sai Pallavi as Sita, the actress is said to be receiving ₹6 crore per part, amounting to ₹12 crore for the two films. The figure marks a notable rise from her earlier remuneration in South Indian cinema, where she typically earned ₹2.5–3 crore per project.

Yash, the Kannada star cast as Ravana, is reportedly charging ₹100 crore for the franchise, in addition to a profit-sharing arrangement as co-producer. He had earlier commanded ₹30–35 crore for the KGF series.

Veteran actor Sunny Deol, who will portray Lord Hanuman, is expected to earn ₹20 crore per part, bringing his total to ₹40 crore — a figure comparable to his remuneration for Gadar 2. Meanwhile, TV actor Ravi Dubey, cast as Lakshman, is reportedly being paid between ₹2 crore and ₹4 crore, marking the highest film fee of his career.

Producer Namit Malhotra stated that the project has been in development for over six years. In a recent interview, he revealed that the combined budget for both parts is approximately $500 million (over ₹4,000 crore), describing it as an effort to create a globally competitive cinematic spectacle. He added that it’s the largest film in the world. 

The film’s music brings together an unusual collaboration between Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer and Indian maestro A. R. Rahman. Speaking about the partnership, Rahman noted the challenge of reinterpreting a culturally significant narrative for both Indian and international audiences.

‘Ramayana’ will be released in two parts, with the first instalment scheduled for a worldwide release in October 2026 ahead of Diwali, followed by the second part in Diwali 2027.