Ever since the release of the trailer for director Nitesh Tiwari's much-anticipated film Ramayan, the project has drawn mixed reactions from audiences across the board. While a section of viewers has appreciated the visual effects and scale of the movie, others have raised concerns and criticism regarding the cast and their costumes. Specifically, the looks of Sai Pallavi and Rakul Preet Singh have come under heavy scrutiny, prompting the latter to address the backlash head-on.
Social media users have expressed varied opinions, with some claiming that Sai Pallavi does not fit the bill for the role of Sita. Additionally, Rakul Preet Singh, who essays the character of Shurpanakha, faced considerable trolling over her styling and wardrobe. Addressing the detractors for the first time at a recent public appearance, the actor delivered a sharp and direct response to the ongoing controversy.
Rakul Preet Singh attended the HT City Most Stylish Awards accompanied by her husband Jackky Bhagnani. During the event, she addressed the controversy surrounding her Shurpanakha character and the associated costumes, firmly stating that her outfits align completely with the requirements of the role.
Critics on social media had pointed out that Rakul's look appeared modern, featuring heavy ornaments and contemporary-looking jewellery. Defending the styling, Rakul retorted that her look and costumes were meticulously crafted only after extensive study and reading of ancient puranas and books.
The actor elaborated that audiences are largely accustomed to viewing Ramayan through television serials, limiting their perception and understanding to what has previously been shown on small and silver screens. However, she emphasized that in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayan, her appearance strictly adheres to the descriptions found in ancient literature, built precisely the way makers found it written in texts.
Rakul further reminded critics that historical accounts note Shurpanakha as one of the most beautiful women in Lanka. According to her, the entire look was conceptualized strictly keeping the Treta Yuga era in mind. Meanwhile, questions and debates regarding the casting of Sai Pallavi continue to circulate among certain sections of the audience.
Aside from the costume discussions, the film has sparked various other conversations since its trailer debut. The Delhi Ramlila Mahasangh recently wrote an official letter to the filmmakers demanding a special screening of the movie. They have insisted that a private screening should be arranged for the Mahasangh ahead of the film's theatrical release on Diwali.
In their letter, representatives of the Ramlila organization warned that if Nitesh Tiwari fails to fulfill their demands, the film will not be allowed to release smoothly across the country. They stated that protestors would stage demonstrations outside cinema halls if the screening request is ignored.
