Delhi Ramlila Mahasangh Warns ‘Ramayana’ Makers: ‘Any Distortion Will Be Opposed’

The Shri Ramlila Mahasangh has sought a special preview screening of Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming film Ramayana before its worldwide theatrical release, saying it wants to ensure.

The mythological epic does not contain any inaccuracies that could hurt religious sentiments. In a press note, the organisation said its president, Arjun Kumar, has written to the filmmakers requesting that a delegation of the Mahasangh be allowed to watch the film before its Diwali 2026 release in India and overseas.

In the letter addressed to director Nitesh Tiwari and the production company, Kumar referred to the controversy surrounding the 2023 film Adipurush, which drew criticism from members of the Sanatan community and traditional Ramlila organisations over its portrayal of characters and events from the Ramayana.

According to the press note, objections to Adipurush included the depiction of Lanka as black instead of golden and the portrayal of Ravana and his army in ways that many believed did not align with traditional interpretations.

“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. We have therefore requested a special preview screening so that any objectionable scenes or dialogues can be identified and removed before the film’s release,” Kumar said in the statement.

The Mahasangh also warned that if its request is ignored and it finds objectionable content in the film after release, it, along with other Hindu organisations, would stage protests outside cinema halls in Delhi and other parts of the country.

The trailer for Ramayana was unveiled during Brahma Muhurat and opens with Yash’s portrayal of Ravana, emerging from the shadows before entering his grand palace and proclaiming his dominance over the three worlds.

As the story unfolds, Lord Vishnu is reborn as Prince Rama, played by Ranbir Kapoor. The trailer introduces Arun Govil as King Dasharatha and features key moments from the epic, including Rama and Sita’s wedding, Kaikeyi’s demand that sends Rama into a 14-year exile, and Lakshmana, played by Ravie Dubey, accompanying his brother into the forest.

Sai Pallavi stars as Sita, while Rakul Preet Singh plays Shurpanakha. The trailer also showcases Sita’s abduction and the build-up to the climactic battle between Rama and Ravana, featuring large-scale action sequences and visual effects.

The film also stars Sunny Deol as Hanuman, with music composed by Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman.

Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release during Diwali 2026, while Part 2 is slated to arrive during Diwali 2027.