Mumbai, November 3, 2026: Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana: Part One is heading towards a potentially historic start at the Indian box office, challenging the long-standing belief that the days immediately preceding Diwali are unfavourable for major theatrical releases. PVR INOX executive Kamal Gianchandani has expressed confidence that the Nitesh Tiwari directorial is on course to register the biggest pre-Diwali booking in the company’s more than three-decade history.
With advance ticket sales already crossing 25 crore net in PVR and INOX, as highlighted by Gianchandani, the film’s response has emerged as an encouraging development for the theatrical industry ahead of its November 5 release. According to latest booking data, the national cinema chains PVR, INOX and Cinepolis (PIC) are contributing significantly to the film’s pre-release business. Their strong performance reflects the importance of multiplex audiences and premium ticket pricing, while the expanding availability of shows across independent theatres and smaller centres is strengthening the nationwide response.
Ramayana Advance Booking at PVR INOX and Cinepolis (Opening Weekend)
The significance of Ramayana’s booking performance extends beyond its commercial potential. Historically, producers have preferred releasing major films on or immediately after Diwali, when festive celebrations translate into stronger theatrical attendance. However, the response to Ramayana suggests that a highly anticipated event film can overcome this traditional disadvantage. Its subject, family appeal and large-scale cinematic presentation have helped generate substantial interest even during a period generally associated with shopping, travel and festival preparations.
The upcoming release could therefore influence how the industry approaches festive scheduling in the future. While the record anticipated by Gianchandani is yet to be formally established, the booking momentum indicates that the pre-Diwali period may not necessarily restrict the commercial potential of a major theatrical event. The final phase of bookings will be important, but the bigger test will come when advance interest translates into actual attendance. If Ramayana sustains its momentum through the subsequent holidays, it could establish an important new benchmark for films opening ahead of Diwali.
With Rs. 25 crore+ in advance ticket sales and two more days to go, Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana has shattered the long-believed pre-Diwali jinx at the Indian box office!
It is now on course to record the BIGGEST pre-Diwali advance bookings in PVRINOX’s 30+ year long history!
A phenomenal milestone and a hugely encouraging moment for the entire Indian cinema industry 🎬 @malhotra_namit @WorldOfRamayana @_PVRCinemas @INOXMovies
— Kamal Gianchandani (@kamalgianc) November 3, 2026
Stay tuned…