The invitation from one of the oldest Ramlila committees in Delhi for actor Poonam Pandey to play Ravan’s wife has caused a stir. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) claims this decision offend cultural and religious feelings. They have strongly objected and urged the committee to rethink its decision.
The VHP noted that Pandey’s past controversies could create confusion or anger among devotees. VHP’s provincial minister, Surendra Gupta, wrote in a letter to the committee, “Ramleela is not just a stage performance but a living expression of Indian values and traditions.
Poonam Pandey role as Ravan’s wife affects religions
The organization believes that casting for Ramayana-based shows should consider not only acting skills but also cultural appropriateness and the feelings of devotees.”
Gupta added, “We do not want to oppose any artist personally. We aim to protect the cultural importance and faith of devotees linked to sacred stories like the Ramayana.” He emphasized that Mandodari represents virtue, dignity, restraint, and the ideal of a devoted wife. “Thus, the choice of actress for this role should reflect these values,” he said.
VHP advise to hire actress with traditional background
The VHP also recommended that the committee select an actress with a background in traditional theater or one whose public behavior meets cultural expectations.
Arjun Kumar, President of the Luv Kush Ramlila Committee, told The Indian Express, “We speak about removing evil from the world. An actor is portraying Ravan (Arya Babbar), and if Poonam Pandey plays his wife, Mandodari, then what is wrong with that? Currently, she is known mainly for her bold roles. We hope this stage will send a message to her followers that she has changed. There should be change; evil should end, and good should prevail.” Poonam Pandey had thanked the committee in a post for inviting her to take part in the event.
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