Shri Ramlila Mahasangh warns of theatre protests unless ‘Ramayana’ gets special screening

Even before its theatrical release, Nitesh Tiwari's ‘Ramayana’ has found itself at the centre of fresh controversy. According to reports, the Shri Ramlila Mahasangh has asked the makers to organise a special screening of the film for its representatives before it reaches cinemas. The organisation has also reportedly warned of protests outside theatres if its request is not accepted.

As per reports, Mahasangh president Arjun Kumar has written to the filmmakers, requesting an exclusive preview for a delegation from the organisation. The group says it wants to ensure that the film does not include scenes or dialogues that could offend the religious sentiments of the Hindu community.

In the letter, Kumar is also said to have referred to the controversy surrounding ‘Adipurush’, the 2023 adaptation of the Ramayana starring Prabhas, Kriti Sanon and Saif Ali Khan. The film faced widespread criticism after its release over its visual design, costumes, character portrayals and dialogues.

According to the Mahasangh, members of the Sanatan community and artists associated with traditional Ramlila performances had raised objections to several creative choices in Adipurush.

Among the concerns highlighted were the depiction of Lanka in black rather than gold, along with the appearance of Ravana and his army, which many felt did not reflect traditional interpretations of the epic. The letter also reportedly pointed out that the backlash had affected the film's performance at the box office.

The organisation has further claimed that it has received information suggesting that ‘Ramayana’ may also contain scenes that could hurt religious sentiments. It has therefore urged the makers to arrange a private screening so that any objectionable content can be identified and, if necessary, removed before the film's release.

According to reports, the letter also warns that if the request is not considered, the Shri Ramlila Mahasangh, along with other Hindu organisations, will organise protests outside cinema halls across the country.

‘Ramayana’ already facing online debate

The makers recently unveiled the first trailer of Ramayana, which stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. The ensemble cast also includes Ravi Dubey, Rakul Preet Singh, Arun Govil and Lara Dutta.

The film has already generated discussions online, with some viewers praising its scale and visuals, while others have questioned certain costume designs, arguing that they appear too contemporary for a story rooted in ancient mythology.

Ramayana is planned as a two-part saga. The first instalment is scheduled to release in theatres during Diwali 2026, followed by the second part in Diwali 2027.