Ramlila body demands special screening of 'Ramayana' film before release, warns of protests
NEW DELHI: The Shri Ramlila Mahasangh has written to the makers of the upcoming film Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor, requesting a special preview screening ahead of its theatrical release. The organisation has warned that if its demand is not met, it will stage protests in Delhi and other states.
In a letter addressed to director Nitesh Tiwari and the production company, Shri Ramlila Mahasangh president Arjun Kumar sought a screening of the film before its scheduled Diwali 2026 release in India and overseas. The request is aimed at ensuring that the film does not contain scenes or dialogues that could hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus, the letter said.
The demand comes amid lingering controversy over the 2023 film Adipurush, which drew criticism for its portrayal of characters and settings from the Hindu epic Ramayana. Kumar recalled that members of the Sanatan community and traditional Ramlila performers had objected to several aspects of Adipurush, including the depiction of Lanka in black instead of gold, and the portrayal of Ravana and his army in a manner they said did not align with traditional beliefs.
“According to information received by the Mahasangh, Ramayana may also contain certain scenes that could hurt the sentiments of Hindus living in India and abroad. In light of this, the organisation has requested a special preview screening to ensure that any potentially objectionable scenes or dialogues are identified and removed prior to release,” Kumar said in a press note.
He warned that if the filmmakers do not agree to the request, the Shri Ramlila Mahasangh, along with various Hindu organisations, will stage protests and demonstrations outside cinema halls in Delhi and other states.
The trailer of Ramayana, released during Brahma Muhurat, opens with Yash as Ravana emerging from the shadows and declaring his rule over the three worlds. It then introduces Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, with Arun Govil portraying King Dasharatha. The trailer also features Sai Pallavi as Sita, Ravie Dubey as Lakshmana, Rakul Preet Singh as Shurpanakha, and Sunny Deol as Hanuman. Key moments from the epic are shown, including Rama and Sita's wedding, Sita's abduction, and the build-up to the battle between Rama and Ravana.
The film's music has been composed by Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for a theatrical release during Diwali 2026, while Ramayana: Part 2 is slated for Diwali 2027.
The makers of the film have not yet publicly responded to the Mahasangh's request. The Shri Ramlila Mahasangh is an umbrella organisation representing numerous Ramlila committees across India, which stage traditional theatrical performances of the epic annually during the festival of Dussehra.
