A past video of Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor has resurfaced across social media platforms during the Ganesh Mahotsav festive period, sparking fresh debate online. The footage captures the actor visiting a Ganpati pandal for darshan, where he was offered temple prasad in a box. Instead of consuming the sacred offering himself, he turned toward the paparazzi stationed nearby and handed the box over, remarking that he was following a strict diet and asking if they would like to eat it instead.
Origin of the 2023 Clip and Renewed Reactions
The recording is not from a recent event; it dates back to the festivities in 2023. During that visit, after offering prayers to Ganpati Bappa, a priest presented the actor with a container of prasad. Citing his ongoing dietary discipline and fitness regimen, he chose not to eat it directly and instead passed it to the media photographers gathered at the venue. With the video circulating once again amid the current festive season, digital audiences have reacted with polarized viewpoints.
A section of social media users viewed the decision through the lens of strict athletic discipline, arguing that passing the food to others was better than leaving it unattended. However, a significant number of commenters questioned the act, contending that traditional temple prasad is sacred and ought to be accepted respectfully, regardless of one's personal fitness rules or nutritional restrictions.
Criticism Surrounding the Portrayal of Lord Ram
The primary driver behind the heightened public reaction is the actor's upcoming big-screen assignment. Commentators on social platforms quickly linked the gesture to his portrayal of Lord Ram, questioning whether someone who turns down sacred prasad for dietary concerns fits such a venerated role. Several users expressed disappointment, claiming that a tiny portion of blessed food would not derail any diet and calling the attitude irresponsible for someone essaying a divine icon. Some posts even raised calls to boycott the upcoming cinematic venture, arguing that such behavior seems disconnected from the sanctity of the role.
Ambitious Two-Part Cinematic Adaptation Underway
The actor remains at the center of attention due to director Nitesh Tiwari's grand two-part mythological production. In this adaptation, Ranbir Kapoor leads the ensemble as Lord Ram. The casting brings together prominent industry figures, with Sai Pallavi portraying Sita and Yash stepping into the role of Ravana. The cast also features Ravi Dubey as Lakshman alongside Sunny Deol embodying Hanuman.
The scale of the project involves a split rollout across international theaters. The opening installment is scheduled to arrive during the Diwali 2026 window, with the concluding chapter slated for Diwali 2027. The project is being prepared for IMAX, 3D, and standard theatrical presentations worldwide. The musical rollout has also commenced with the release of the first song, composed by AR Rahman and performed by vocalists Arijit Singh and Shreya Ghoshal, showcasing the lead actors in their respective epic avatars.
