Shri Ramlila Mahasangh Demands Advance Screening of Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana Film
Shri Ramlila Mahasangh President Arjun Kumar has formally requested an advance preview screening of Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming film adaptation of the epic Ramayana. Speaking to the press and writing a formal letter to the filmmakers, Kumar expressed concerns regarding the representation of the ancient epic, warning that unaddressed inaccuracies could lead to demonstrations outside theaters across various cities.
What Happened
Arjun Kumar, representing the Shri Ramlila Mahasangh alongside Delhi’s Ramlila committees, revealed that a letter has been sent to the producers and directors of Ramayana seeking a special screening prior to its theatrical release. Speaking to PTI, Kumar explained that while the organization welcomes the film and hopes millions will watch it, elements from the trailer raised concerns. Specifically, he noted that the trailer lacked appropriate sentiment and featured odd costumes. Additionally, Kumar stated that the organisation received information suggesting certain scenes or dialogues in the film could potentially offend Hindu religious sentiments in India and abroad.
Key Highlights
- Formal Request: Shri Ramlila Mahasangh President Arjun Kumar wrote to the filmmakers requesting a preview screening for the Ramleela Committee before the theatrical release.
- Trailer Objections: Concerns were raised regarding odd costumes and a perceived lack of appropriate sentiment in the trailer footage.
- Warning of Protests: The Mahasangh and affiliated Delhi Ramlila committees warned they will stage demonstrations outside cinema halls and block screenings if the movie is released without a prior review and contains offensive inaccuracies.
- Reference to Adipurush: Kumar cited the 2023 movie Adipurush, pointing to creative deviations such as depicting Lanka in black rather than the traditionally described golden kingdom as a key reason for backlash and poor box office performance.
- Star-Studded Cast & Release Plan: Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the multi-part project stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita Maa, Ravie Dubey as Lakshman, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, and producer Yash as Ravana. The first part is scheduled to release around Diwali this year, followed by part two around Diwali next year.
Why This Matters
The demand highlights ongoing sensitivities regarding cinematic adaptations of religious epics in India. Referring directly to the negative response received by the 2023 film Adipurush, Arjun Kumar emphasized that unapproved creative liberties and departures from traditional descriptions can damage a film’s reception. The Mahasangh noted that addressing potential shortcomings beforehand would allow them to offer constructive input and support the film, even offering to arrange free screenings for Ramleela Committee members if the narrative remains respectful and faithful.
What to Watch Next
It remains to be seen whether director Nitesh Tiwari and the film’s producers will respond to the formal request sent by the Shri Ramlila Mahasangh. Viewers and industry observers will be watching whether a private preview screening is arranged for the Ramleela Committee prior to the film’s scheduled Diwali release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is directing the upcoming Ramayana film?
The epic film is directed by Nitesh Tiwari.
Who plays the lead roles in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana?
The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita Maa, Ravie Dubey as Lakshman, Sunny Deol as Lord Hanuman, Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, and Yash as Ravana.
What is the planned release schedule for the movie?
The project is planned as a two-part epic, with the first installment expected around Diwali this year and the second installment expected during the same festive period next year.
Why is the Shri Ramlila Mahasangh requesting a preview screening?
President Arjun Kumar stated that the request aims to identify and remove any potentially objectionable scenes, dialogues, or inaccuracies before the public release to ensure religious sentiments are respected.
Source: Based on reporting from Bollywood Hungama and PTI.