The buzz around Ramayana is getting louder by the day, but now the film is making headlines for a completely different reason. While the recently released glimpse left audiences spellbound and raised expectations sky-high, the real drama seems to be unfolding behind the scenes in Bollywood’s distribution circles.

Producer Namit Malhotra is reportedly demanding a massive ₹450 crores for the Hindi theatrical rights of the epic saga, and the figure has apparently sent top distributors into panic mode. Industry biggies like Anil Thadani, Jayantilal Gada, and Karan Johar are said to be keen on grabbing the rights, but insiders reveal that the jaw-dropping price has made them take a step back.

Trade circles are already comparing the deal with Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film King, whose theatrical rights were reportedly acquired by Pen Marudhar for ₹250 crores. Against that backdrop, Ramayana’s quote is being called “too risky” even for Bollywood’s biggest players.

Sources say distributors are now urging Namit Malhotra to reconsider the price and bring it down to a more realistic number. However, no deal has been finalized yet.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana stars Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, and Sunny Deol in key roles.