New Delhi: Delhi’s historic Ramleela has landed in controversy after the Luv Kush Ramleela Committee invited actor Poonam Pandey to play Mandodari, the wife of Ravan. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) objected to this decision, warning that it could hurt the sentiments of devotees and affect the sanctity of the Ramayana event.
VHP provincial minister Surendra Gupta wrote a letter urging the committee to reconsider. He said, “Ramleela is not just a theatrical performance but a living embodiment of Indian values and traditions…The organisation insists that casting for Ramayana-based productions should not be based solely on acting ability, but must also consider cultural appropriateness and the sentiments of devotees.” Gupta added, “Our intention is not to personally oppose any artist, but to uphold the cultural sanctity and the faith of devotees associated with sacred epics like the Ramayana.”
The VHP said Poonam Pandey’s past controversies might upset devotees, and that someone with a theatre background and a more traditional public image would be a better fit. Gupta explained his concern, saying, “Mandodari…symbolises virtue, dignity, restraint, and the ideal of a devoted wife. Therefore, the selection of an actress for this role should reflect these ideals.”
On the other hand, Arjun Kumar, President of Luv Kush Ramleela Committee, defended their choice. He stated, “We talk about eliminating evil from the world. An actor is playing the role of Ravan (Arya Babbar), and if Poonam Pandey plays his wife, Mandodri, then what is wrong with that? Right now, she is known only for her bold acting and character, so we hope that through this stage, a message will go to her followers that she has changed. There should be change, evil should end, and good should prevail.”
Poonam Pandey herself thanked the committee for the opportunity in a post, appreciating the invite to the iconic event.