BY SACNILK

The cinematic adaptation of the timeless epic, Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has remained one of the most discussed projects in Indian cinema. With a massive budget and a stellar cast that brings together the best of various industries, the film is being crafted as a global spectacle. In a significant development, it has come to light that a 34-minute footage of the film has been officially certified by the Australian Classification Board. This news has sparked a lot of conversation among fans who are eagerly waiting for the first glimpse of Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and Sai Pallavi as Sita. According to the official certification details, the 34-minute footage has been granted an M (Mature) rating. The primary reason cited by the Australian board for this classification is moderate violence. The application for this certification was submitted by Prathyangira Cinemas PTY LTD, indicating that the makers are already laying the groundwork for a massive international rollout. A 34-minute duration is quite substantial for a censor filing at this stage, leading to speculation that this could be a special extended preview, a prologue, or a detailed glimpse intended for international distributors and trade showcases. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) To understand the implications of this rating, we must look at how the Australian classification system works. An M rating stands for Mature and is considered a guidance category rather than a restrictive one. Unlike the MA 15+ rating, which legally restricts entry to those under 15 unless accompanied by a parent or adult guardian, the M rating is advisory. It suggests that the content is best suited for persons aged 15 and over, but it does not legally prevent children of any age from viewing the film. Essentially, anyone can see an M-rated film, but the board advises parents that the themes or sequences might not be suitable for younger children. The mention of moderate violence is particularly interesting given the nature of the source material. While the Ramayana is a spiritual and emotional journey, it also culminates in a grand scale conflict between the forces of good and evil. The M rating suggests that Nitesh Tiwari is not shying away from a realistic portrayal of the epic's battlefield sequences. By opting for a tone that includes moderate violence, the film appears to be targeting a more grounded and intense cinematic experience rather than a purely sanitized version often seen in older television adaptations. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The buzz surrounding the film is amplified by its extraordinary ensemble. Apart from Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi, the film features Yash as the formidable Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi. The technical side is equally strong, with Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus and the Oscar-winning VFX house DNEG handling the visual effects. The goal is to create a visual masterpiece that matches the standards of global fantasy epics, and this early certification in Australia is a clear sign that the production is moving at a steady pace toward its massive theatrical release. As the project nears its next phases, this M-rated footage provides the first concrete hint regarding the film's artistic direction. It suggests a mature, high-stakes narrative that balances the divinity of the story with the gritty reality of an ancient war. For the global audience, this certification confirms that Ramayana is being prepared as a top-tier international production, ready to compete on the world stage with its scale, storytelling, and now, a certified mature tone.

BY SACNILK

With only a few days remaining before the Ramayana trailer release, new details have emerged regarding its official launch at the San Diego Comic-Con. On July 15, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) cleared a 4-minute-15-second-long trailer for the film with a U certificate. This sets the stage for a major international presentation, where director Nitesh Tiwari and the core team are expected to unveil the first look of the epic to a global audience. One of the most significant updates involves the official trailer, which was cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification on July 15 with a U certificate. The makers have reportedly prepared two distinct versions for the launch. One cut, titled Trailer - Ramayana 3D, features a runtime of 4 minutes and 15 seconds, while a second version, intended for theatrical use, runs for exactly 4 minutes. This unusually long duration indicates that the team is ready to offer an extensive and detailed look into the mythological world they have built over the last few years. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The trailer launch is not just a digital release but a grand physical event in San Diego. The panel will be held in Ballroom 20, which is the second-largest venue at the convention center, capable of accommodating nearly 4,800 attendees. It is a prestigious slot, occurring between 3:15 pm and 4:15 pm PDT on July 23, which translates to 3:45 am to 4:45 am IST for viewers in India on Friday, July 24. The official Comic-Con website has listed producer Namit Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari alongside lead actors Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, referring to them as international superstars. The panel description promises much more than a simple screening. Attendees can expect never-before-seen footage, exclusive reveals, live performances, and special giveaways. This move puts Ramayana in the same league as global franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe, whose president Kevin Feige is scheduled for a major presentation in the larger Hall H on the following day to reveal the future of the MCU and likely the trailer for Avengers: Doomsday. By securing a spot in Ballroom 20, the makers are positioning the film as a global cinematic spectacle, backed by the visual effects expertise of DNEG and Prime Focus Studios. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Beyond the international buzz, the team has also launched a massive ground-level campaign in India titled Hamara Satya, Hamara Itihaas. This school outreach initiative, which began on July 9, aims to connect with over five lakh students across 400 schools in 18 different cities. Through quizzes, drawing competitions, and interactive sessions, the campaign focuses on the core values of the epic, engaging the next generation before the film’s theatrical release. It is a dual strategy that balances local cultural roots with global promotional ambitions. The scale of the production is further highlighted by its cast and crew. While Ranbir Kapoor leads as Rama and Yash takes on the role of Ravana, the film also features Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman. Veterans like Arun Govil and Lara Dutta are also part of the ensemble as Dashrath and Kaikeyi. The musical score is a collaboration between Academy Award winners Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman, adding another layer of international appeal. With the first part scheduled for a Diwali 2026 release and the second in Diwali 2027, the San Diego Comic-Con showcase marks the beginning of what the creators call the largest cinematic undertaking in Indian film history.

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, July 16 - The promotional campaign for Nitesh Tiwari's massively anticipated Ramayana: Part 1 has officially entered its next phase, with the film's much-awaited trailer receiving clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) ahead of its global launch. The trailer has been awarded a 'U' certificate, making it suitable for audiences of all age groups. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) According to the latest reports, two versions of the trailer have been certified. The theatrical trailer runs exactly 4 minutes, while the official digital version runs 4 minutes and 15 seconds. Both versions have received a clean U certificate, reflecting the makers' intention to position Ramayana as a grand family entertainer. The trailer is scheduled to make its worldwide debut on July 24, following an exclusive industry and media launch event. The extended runtime suggests that audiences will get a comprehensive look at the film's scale, introducing the principal characters, large-scale action sequences, breathtaking visual effects, and the mythical world envisioned by director Nitesh Tiwari. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Produced by Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Studios in association with Monster Mind Creations, Ramayana: Part 1 stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Yash as Ravana, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. The first instalment is slated to release in theatres on October 30, 2026, with Part 2 scheduled for Diwali 2027. With a four-minute-plus trailer now certified, anticipation is at an all-time high for what is widely expected to be one of the biggest cinematic events in Indian film history.

BY SACNILK

Plans are reportedly in motion to bring Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana to Chinese theaters, signaling a significant attempt to re-enter the world's second-largest movie market. According to a recent report by Mid-day, director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra are making significant moves to release and promote Ramayana: Part 1 in China. This is a huge development because the Chinese market has been largely closed off to Bollywood films since 2020. The choice of Nitesh Tiwari to lead this charge makes perfect sense. He is the man behind Dangal, which remains the most successful Indian film in China to date. That movie proved that Indian stories, when told with deep emotion and family values, have a massive fan base in the neighboring country. Now, with a story as culturally significant as the Ramayana, the makers are looking to tap into that potential once again on an even larger scale. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The promotional strategy seems to be quite elaborate. Sources suggest that the team is planning a four-day promotional tour featuring the lead trio: Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, and Sai Pallavi. The tentative plan includes a press event and a special screening at the Pingyao International Film Festival on September 24. Following this, they are looking to capitalize on China’s Golden Week, which starts on October 1, with a multi-city promotional run. This period is a major holiday season in China, making it the perfect time to grab the attention of the local audience. For context, Indian cinema had a golden run in China during the last decade. Films like Dangal and Secret Superstar became massive blockbusters there, often earning more in China than they did in India. Other films like Hindi Medium and even Thugs of Hindostan managed to find a place in Chinese theaters. However, geopolitical situations and the pandemic caused a long break. Ramayana is now being positioned as the film that could bridge that gap and bring Bollywood back to the global stage in a big way. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The scale of this project is unlike anything we have seen before. With a masive budget, the makers are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the VFX and production quality match international standards. Having Namit Malhotra's DNEG on board—a firm that has won multiple Oscars—already gives the film a global edge. By targeting the Chinese market, the producers are clearly aiming for a worldwide gross that could shatter many existing records. While the plans are still awaiting final approvals, the intent is clear. Ramayana is not just being treated as a domestic release, but as a global event film. If Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, and Sai Pallavi do head to China this September, it will mark the beginning of a new chapter for Indian cinema's international outreach. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how this ancient epic is presented to a modern, global audience.

BY SACNILK

As we previously reported during the early production stages of this magnum opus, the scale of Nitesh Tiwari's adaptation of the Ramayana has been a subject of intense discussion within the film industry. The project has now reached a significant milestone with the official announcement of its trailer premiere. The makers have confirmed that the first look at this cinematic epic will be unveiled to the world on July 24, 2026. The San Diego Comic-Con Premiere marks a strategic shift in how the film is being positioned globally. The producers, Prime Focus Studios, officially shifted from a domestic-only rollout to a massive international platform. The trailer will debut at San Diego Comic-Con 2026 on July 23, which translates to July 24 IST, in the prestigious Ballroom 20. Producer Namit Malhotra, director Nitesh Tiwari, and the main cast will present the panel, making it one of the most high-profile international debuts for an Indian film to date. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) This decision to launch at SDCC underlines the ambition of the makers to present the Ramayana not just as a regional film, but as a global civilizational epic. The project features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as Ravana. Reports suggest that the cast has undergone extensive preparation to do justice to these iconic roles, with Ranbir Kapoor reportedly spending months on physical and dialect training to capture the essence of his character. Technically, the film is aiming for a standard that competes with international big-budget franchises. The visual effects are being handled by DNEG, a studio with multiple Academy Awards to its name. Perhaps the most intriguing collaboration is on the musical front, where Hans Zimmer and A.R. Rahman are teaming up to create the score. This fusion of Western orchestral expertise and Indian soul is intended to give the film a unique auditory identity that resonates across borders. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The choice of Ballroom 20 at Comic-Con is a calculated move. Historically, this venue has hosted the biggest television and film reveals from major Hollywood studios. By securing this space, Prime Focus Studios is ensuring that the first visual representation of their ₹ 800 crore plus investment reaches the core global audience of fantasy and epic enthusiasts. It signals a move towards a worldwide distribution strategy similar to major superhero or adventure film releases. From Bharat to the world, the Ramayana trailer premieres worldwide on 24th July, 2026. 🏹 pic.twitter.com/rphSFR99OE— The World Of Ramayana (@WorldOfRamayana) July 11, 2026 (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Following the international debut, the trailer is expected to be screened across thousands of theaters in India in multiple languages, including 3D and IMAX formats. The film is currently scheduled for a grand release during Diwali 2026. This trailer launch will serve as the first real test of the visual and emotional depth Nitesh Tiwari has brought to this ancient story, and it remains one of the most anticipated events in the 2026 film calendar.

BY SACNILK

Before the global spotlight hits the international stage, the makers of Ramayana are starting their journey at home by engaging with India's youngest creators. They have launched the Colours of Ramayana contest, an art competition specifically for school students across the nation. It's a creative call to bring the ancient epic to life through paintings and sketches, with some very exciting rewards on the line. Winners won't just get official limited-edition merchandise; they will also get a world-first chance to watch the movie's trailer in 3D in theaters before anyone else. This local initiative, which closes for entries on July 14, 2026, is just the first step in a massive marketing campaign that is now heading toward a historic global debut. The scale of this outreach is truly massive, with the promotional tour set to actively reach over 400 schools across 18 major cities in India. The goal is to connect directly with more than 5 lakh students through various interactive segments. Beyond just the art competition, the team is hosting historical quizzes and educational sessions designed to make the epic's rich history relatable to the younger generation. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The "Ramayana: Our Truth. Our History. Contest" is LIVE!We invite school students across India to participate in Colours of Ramayana, an art competition that celebrates their imagination, devotion and creativity.Bring your vision to life with your paintings, sketches and… pic.twitter.com/BMv8tflqax— The World Of Ramayana (@WorldOfRamayana) July 9, 2026 The global stage is being set for what is perhaps the most ambitious project in the history of Indian cinema. Namit Malhotra and Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming retelling of the Ramayana is heading to the prestigious San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) for a major international showcase on July 23, 2026. This move places the Indian epic alongside top-tier global franchises and television networks that traditionally dominate the event. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) For its exclusive international debut, the movie has been officially titled Ramayana: The Epic Begins. The panel is scheduled to take place in Ballroom 20, located on the upper level of the San Diego Convention Center. To understand the scale of this event, one must look at the venue itself. Ballroom 20 is the second-largest hall at SDCC, boasting a massive seating capacity of approximately 4,800 to 5,000 attendees. Historically, this space is reserved for major studio presentations and top-tier television networks. With this milestone, Ramayana becomes only the second Indian film in history to secure a major hall showcase at SDCC, following in the footsteps of Kalki 2898 AD. The panel is scheduled for Thursday, July 23, 2026, running for exactly one hour from 3:15 PM to 4:15 PM PDT. For fans in India who want to track the updates live, the event will kick off early the next morning at 3:15 AM IST on Friday, July 24. The creators are treating this as a Hollywood-grade international launch, intended to introduce the scale of the Indian epic to a global audience. The lineup for the panel is equally impressive. Lead superstars Ranbir Kapoor, who portrays Lord Ram, and Yash, who plays Ravana, will take the stage live alongside director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra, who is also the Global CEO of the Academy Award-winning VFX powerhouse DNEG. Their presence indicates a significant level of commitment to the film’s international positioning, offering fans a chance for live interactions and interviews. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) One of the most intriguing highlights of the presentation will be the reveal of world-first technology. The team is expected to unveil a special version of the trailer that utilizes Brahma AI. This is an indigenously developed, advanced artificial intelligence system designed to sync English lip movements perfectly with the live-action footage. This technological leap aims to solve the immersion issues often found in dubbed content, making the film more accessible to international viewers without losing the impact of the performances. Beyond the technical reveals, attendees in Ballroom 20 will be treated to never-before-seen footage and exclusive behind-the-scenes breakdown clips that detail how this ancient epic was visualized for the modern big screen. The one-hour block also promises live stage performances and special limited-edition giveaways for those inside the hall. While the global marketing kicks off in San Diego, the makers are also engaging audiences back home through the Colours of Ramayana art contest, which offers Indian school students a chance to win exclusive merchandise and early trailer screenings.

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, July 8 - The excitement surrounding Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana: Part 1 continues to build as the makers gear up to begin the film's full-scale promotional campaign. After creating immense buzz with its introduction glimpse, the epic is now preparing for its biggest marketing milestone ahead of its highly anticipated Diwali 2026 theatrical release. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) According to a report by Variety India, the official trailer of Ramayana: Part 1 will be unveiled on July 18, 2026, at a grand launch event at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. The event is expected to be attended by director Nitesh Tiwari, producer Namit Malhotra, and several members of the star-studded cast. Reports suggest that Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Ravi Dubey, Rakul Preet Singh, and Kunal Kapoor are likely to be present, while the attendance of Yash and Sunny Deol is yet to be confirmed. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman. Backed by Prime Focus Studios and Monster Mind Creations, the ambitious two-part adaptation has been mounted on a massive scale with cutting-edge visual effects and is being positioned as one of the most expensive and visually spectacular films ever produced in Indian cinema. The upcoming trailer is expected to provide audiences with their first detailed look at the film's storytelling, action sequences, and visual grandeur. With anticipation already soaring among moviegoers, the July 18 launch is likely to become one of the biggest promotional events of the year. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled to arrive in cinemas worldwide during Diwali 2026, while its second instalment is slated for Diwali 2027.

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, July 8 - Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana: Part 1 continues to dominate headlines even months ahead of its theatrical release. Starring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, the epic has easily been the most anticipated Indian movie in the making, not just among fans but also in the trade, for its enormous box-office potential. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) As the release date gets nearer, the film distribution race is heating up. Yesterday, Variety India reported that Karan Johar's Dharma Productions has acquired the all-India distribution rights to Ramayana Part 1 in a massive 250-crore deal. While the deal is huge, it started a conversation on social media about whether the rights were really sold for 250 crores, a significant but half of what the makers reportedly quoted, as earlier reports stated a staggering 500 crore demand. Now, according to the latest report by Bollywood Hungama, Dharma Productions has reportedly secured the theatrical distribution rights for 350 crore, making it the biggest distribution deal in Bollywood history. While the official announcement hasn't been made yet, the 350 crore deal looks more believable given the massive box office potential and the distribution demand of the makers. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Dharma Productions is reportedly preparing an extensive nationwide release strategy for the epic. The project, directed by Nitesh Tiwari and backed by Namit Malhotra, stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Ravie Dubey as Laxman, and Sunny Deol as Hanuman, among many others in prominent roles. Mounted on a massive budget and envisioned as a two-part cinematic saga, Ramayana is among the most anticipated Indian films in recent years. Produced by Prime Focus Studios and Monster Mind Creations, the first instalment is scheduled for a grand worldwide theatrical release during the 2026 Diwali festive season, while Ramayana Part 2 will release on Diwali 2027.

BY SACNILK

The landscape of Indian cinema is preparing for what could be its most monumental theatrical event yet. Nitesh Tiwari's mythological epic, Ramayana, has remained a constant subject of fascination since its announcement. In a significant development for the film's domestic prospects, Variety India has exclusively reported that Karan Johar's Dharma Productions has officially secured the Indian distribution rights for this ambitious project. The deal comes after a rigorous selection process by producer Namit Malhotra, the CEO of DNEG and Founder of Prime Focus. To find the right partner for a project of this scale, Malhotra reportedly showcased an edited 30-minute footage of the film to several major studios. The visual spectacle and craftsmanship shown in this sneak peek reportedly left Dharma Productions impressed, leading to deep negotiations. While initial discussions for the distribution rights were said to have started at a staggering ₹500 crore, the deal was eventually finalized at ₹250 crore. This partnership ensures that the film will benefit from Dharma’s extensive reach and marketing expertise across the Indian market. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) While Dharma Productions handles the domestic front, the film's global footprint is equally impressive. Warner Bros. Pictures has been brought on board to distribute the first installment overseas, marking a rare collaboration between a major Hollywood studio and an Indian mythological epic for a Diwali release. This dual distribution strategy highlights the producer's vision to position Ramayana not just as a national event, but as a global cinematic milestone. The project boasts one of the most high-profile pan-India ensembles ever assembled. Ranbir Kapoor leads the cast as Lord Rama, with Sai Pallavi portraying Goddess Sita and Yash taking on the role of the formidable Ravana. The supporting cast is equally star-studded, featuring Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. The wider cast includes industry veterans and popular stars like Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, and Arun Govil—who famously played Rama in the original television series—now appearing as King Dashrath. The scale of the production is further elevated by its musical score, which is a historic collaboration between Hollywood maestro Hans Zimmer and the legendary AR Rahman. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, known for his work on Dangal and Chhichhore, the film is set to be released in two parts. By focusing on a character-driven narrative supported by world-class visual effects from DNEG, the production aims to bring a fresh yet faithful perspective to the timeless epic. With the distribution partners now locked in both locally and internationally, the path is clear for Ramayana to dominate the theatrical space when it arrives this Diwali.

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, June 30 - The anticipation surrounding Ramayana: Part 1 has reached a new high as the Ranbir Kapoor-led magnum opus has become IMDb's most anticipated Indian movie of the remainder of 2026. The ambitious epic has topped IMDb's popularity charts, underlining the massive excitement among audiences worldwide ahead of its release. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana features an ensemble cast including Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, Yash as Lankesh, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravi Dubey and Laxman. The film is envisioned as a large-scale cinematic adaptation of the ancient Indian epic and is being mounted as a two-part saga with world-class visual effects and production scale. According to Variety India, the 20 most anticipated Indian films ranking was compiled from page views logged by IMDb's more than 250 million monthly visitors between January 1 and June 28, covering Indian films with confirmed theatrical or streaming releases in the second half of the year. The list also includes YRF's Alpha (number 2), Yash's Toxic (number 3), Shah Rukh Khan's King (at 4), and Dhamaal 4 (at 5). (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) The buzz around Ramayana Part 1 intensified after the makers unveiled the first glimpse earlier this year, with audiences praising the grandeur, visuals, and Ranbir Kapoor's striking transformation as Lord Rama. Since then, fans have been eagerly waiting for a full-fledged trailer announcement. Adding to the excitement, reports revealed that the makers are planning to unveil the official first trailer of the epic at a massive event in Los Angeles on July 14. The film has already garnered significant international attention, especially due to the collaboration between Oscar-winning composers Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman, who are jointly working on the film's music and background score. The combination of Indian epic with global cinematic storytelling has made the project one of the most talked-about Indian films in recent years. The film is scheduled to release this Diwali, with the second part coming on Diwali 2027. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) IMDb’s Most Anticipated Indian Movies of 2026 Rank Movie Language Release Date 1 Ramayana: Part 1 Hindi Diwali 2026 2 Alpha Hindi July 3 3 Toxic Kannada/English August 26 4 King Hindi Dec. 24, 2026 5 Dhamaal 4 Hindi July 10 6 Drishyam 3 Hindi October 2 7 Vishwanath & Sons Tamil August 14 8 Mirzapur: The Movie Hindi September 4 9 Haiwaan Hindi September 11 10 Eetha Hindi August 28

BY SACNILK

Mumbai, June 20 - Romantic comedies may not dominate Bollywood like they once did, but the genre continues to produce impressive box office openings whenever the combination of star power, music, and youthful storytelling clicks with audiences. From coming-of-age love stories to modern relationship dramas, rom-coms have consistently delivered strong theatrical starts over the years. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Cocktail 2, starring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna, is the latest entrant in the biggest Bollywood rom-com openers at the Indian box office after a good start upon its June 19 release. The sequel opened to an impressive 13.50 crore nett in India, marking one of the strongest starts for the genre in recent years. Here's a look at the top 5 Bollywood rom-com openers in India. 1. Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013) — 19.45 Crore Nett Ayan Mukerji's Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani remains the benchmark for Bollywood romantic comedies at the box office. Starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, the coming-of-age entertainer opened to a massive 19.45 crore nett in India back in 2013. The film benefited from exceptional pre-release buzz, hit music, and the hugely popular pairing of Ranbir and Deepika. It eventually went on to become one of Bollywood's biggest blockbusters in the genre and continues to enjoy cult status among audiences. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 2. Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar (2023) — 15.73 Crore Nett Directed by Luv Ranjan, Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar delivered a strong opening during the Holi festive period in 2023. Featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor, the film mixed relationship drama, comedy, and family emotions with chartbuster songs. TJMM collected 15.73 crore nett on Day 1 and emerged as one of the biggest post-pandemic successes for the rom-com genre. 3. Jab Harry Met Sejal (2017) — 15.25 Crore Nett Despite receiving mixed reviews, Imtiaz Ali's Jab Harry Met Sejal opened well at the Indian box office thanks to the star power of Shah Rukh Khan and Anushka Sharma. The urban romantic drama collected 15.25 crore nett on its opening day in 2017. While the film couldn't sustain momentum over the long run, its initial numbers highlighted Shah Rukh Khan's pull in the romantic genre. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 4. Cocktail 2 (2026) — 13.50 Crore Nett Fourteen years after the original Cocktail became a cult favourite, Cocktail 2 has revived the franchise with a fresh cast and contemporary relationship drama. Starring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon, and Rashmika Mandanna, the film opened to an estimated 13.50 crore nett in India. The sequel's stylish visuals, strong music album, and urban multiplex appeal contributed significantly to its opening numbers. It is believed that the nostalgia attached to the original film, along with popular fresh casting, played a major role in driving audience interest. With this opening, Cocktail 2 has officially secured its place among Bollywood’s biggest rom-com openers. The film is expected to put up a good weekend domestically. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) 5. 2 States (2014) — 12.40 Crore Nett Based on Chetan Bhagat's bestselling novel, 2 States starred Arjun Kapoor and Alia Bhatt in a cross-cultural love story that connected strongly with audiences across India. Released in 2014, the film opened at 12.40 crore nett and later emerged as one of the year's biggest commercial successes. Its relatable family conflicts and emotional storytelling made it especially popular among younger audiences and families alike. Rom-Coms Continue To Hold Box Office Value The strong opening of Cocktail 2 proves that Bollywood romantic comedies still have theatrical potential despite the industry's growing dependence on action spectacles and franchise films. While the genre has evolved over the years, audiences continue to respond to entertaining love stories backed by memorable music, glamorous visuals, and strong lead chemistry. If Cocktail 2 manages to sustain momentum over the weekend, it could emerge as one of the biggest rom-com successes of the post-pandemic era.

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Mumbai, June 16 - Bollywood superstar Ranbir Kapoor has achieved another major milestone in his career by securing a place in TIME magazine's prestigious 100 Most Influential People list for 2026. The actor emerged as the only Indian film star featured on this year's global list, marking a significant moment for Indian cinema on the international stage. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) TIME magazine recognised Ranbir Kapoor for his growing influence in global entertainment, his powerful performances, and his contribution to redefining contemporary Indian cinema. The recognition comes after the massive success of films like Animal and the worldwide anticipation surrounding his upcoming epic Ramayana. Actor Ayushmann Khurrana penned a heartfelt tribute for Kapoor in the magazine, describing him as "a symbol of the evolving India — rooted in emotion, yet fearless in ambition." He praised Ranbir's ability to balance commercial success with meaningful storytelling, calling him one of the most versatile actors of his generation. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}) Over the years, Ranbir Kapoor has built a reputation for delivering critically acclaimed performances in films such as Rockstar, Barfi!, Sanju, and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. His ability to portray emotionally layered characters has earned him both audience admiration and industry respect. Ranbir Kapoor's inclusion in the TIME 100 list reflects the growing global recognition of Indian cinema and its artists. As Bollywood continues to expand its international reach, Kapoor's achievement stands as a proud moment for the Indian entertainment industry. With several ambitious projects lined up for the future, Ranbir Kapoor's influence appears set to grow even further, solidifying his position as one of India's most impactful cinematic voices.