In a resounding statement that has captured the attention of movie enthusiasts and devotees alike, actress Dipika Chikhlia, widely celebrated for her portrayal of Goddess Sita in Ramanand Sagar’s iconic television series Ramayan, has expressed her reservations regarding Nitesh Tiwari’s forthcoming cinematic adaptation of the Indian epic. The film, which features Bollywood stalwarts Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi in the roles of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita respectively, has been a subject of much discussion and anticipation. However, Chikhlia’s stark observations have added a new dimension to the ongoing conversations.
In an exclusive interview with India Today, Chikhlia didn’t mince words as she articulated her concerns about the continual remaking of Ramayan. “Honestly, I am quite disillusioned by people who keep making Ramayan because I don’t think you should be doing it. People are making a mess of it,” she remarked, her frustration palpable. She argued that every new adaptation tends to introduce fresh elements in an attempt to offer a unique take, but in doing so, they compromise the essence of the original epic. “Every time they make it, they want to bring in something new; a new story, a new angle, a new look,” she added.
Chikhlia cited Om Raut’s Adipurush as a case in point. The 2023 film, which starred Prabhas and Kriti Sanon as Raghav and Janki, was heavily criticized for its creative liberties and received mixed reviews upon release. Chikhlia pointed to specific changes that she felt disrupted the traditional narrative. “Like for Kriti Sanon, they gave her a pink-colored satin saree. They gave Saif (Ali Khan) a different look because they wanted to do something different, creatively. But then what you are doing is you’re spoiling that whole impact of what Ramayan is all about,” she noted.
Chikhlia, who has now transitioned into a political career, was unequivocal in her advice to filmmakers: do not tamper with religious texts. “One should not tamper around with religious texts. I don’t think one should be doing it and just leave it aside. Just don’t do this,” she urged. Furthermore, she emphasized that there are numerous other stories worth telling that haven’t been explored yet.
. “Speak about a lot of freedom fighters. There’s so much that one can talk about; unsung heroes who were valiant in history for freedom. Why only Ramayan?” she questioned.
Adding another layer to the discussion, Arun Govil, who is revered for his portrayal of Lord Rama in the same television series, shared his thoughts on Ranbir Kapoor stepping into the role. Promoting his latest project, Article 370, Govil maintained a more neutral stance when asked about Kapoor’s suitability for the iconic character. “Woh ho sakta hai ya nahi ho sakta hai woh toh samay batayega. Pehle se kuch nahi kaha ja sakta kisi ke baare main. But, as far as Ranbir is concerned, he is a good actor,” Govil stated. He highlighted Kapoor’s credentials, noting his awards and grounded upbringing. “Jitna janta hoon main unko, bahut sanskaari bacche hain woh. Unke andar morals, sanskar, sanskriti hai. Maine dekha hai kayi baar unko. I’m sure that he will try to do his level best,” Govil added.
Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayan adaptation is slated for a 2025 Diwali release and will feature an ensemble cast including Yash, Sunny Deol, and Lara Dutta in significant roles. Despite the anticipation and excitement surrounding the project, Chikhlia’s comments have certainly thrown a spotlight on the challenges and responsibilities faced by filmmakers when adapting revered texts.
As the release date approaches, it remains to be seen how Tiwari’s interpretation will be received by a public that holds the original epic in high regard. Will this new adaptation rise above past controversies and find favor with audiences, or will it, as Chikhlia fears, fall into the same trap as previous attempts? Only time will tell. Until then, the debate surrounding the artistic liberties taken with sacred stories continues to pose critical questions about creativity, tradition, and respect for cultural narratives.
