New Delhi: Director Nitesh Tiwari’s highly anticipated cinematic adaptation, Ramayana: Part One, has landed in controversy ahead of its planned Diwali 2026 theatrical debut. The Shri Ramlila Mahasangh has formally written to the director and producers, demanding an exclusive pre-release preview for representatives of the organization, local Ramlila committees, and various Hindu outfits. The organization stated that the screening is necessary to review the content and ensure it does not contain objectionable elements that could hurt religious sentiments.
Shri Ramlila Mahasangh President Arjun Kumar issued a clear warning of widespread protests and demonstrations outside cinema halls across India and overseas if the filmmakers refuse the preview request. Drawing direct comparisons to the severe backlash faced by the 2023 film Adipurush, Kumar noted that the earlier adaptation suffered at the box office due to its controversial visual choices, modernised costumes, and improper depictions of sacred characters. He expressed concern that early promotional materials for Tiwari’s film indicate potential script distortions and criticized Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Lord Ram as lacking the requisite gravitas and dignity.
While emphasizing that the Mahasangh is not an official certifying authority, Kumar stated that the group remains willing to promote the film and organize free screenings for devotees if the final cut adheres faithfully to sacred scriptures. The star-studded ensemble project, featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, and Sunny Deol, now faces growing pressure from cultural organizations to address these concerns before its global release.
