Mumbai: Actress Nikita Rawal has weighed in on the debate surrounding director Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming film Ramayan, saying that actors who portray revered religious figures should recognize the responsibility that comes with such roles.
Speaking during a recent podcast, Rawal said Lord Ram is not simply a character from Indian mythology but a symbol of faith, values and ideals for millions of people. Because of that, she believes the audience's emotions should be respected when casting actors for the role.
Her comments come as Ramayan continues to generate strong public interest even before its release. The film has remained one of the most talked-about projects in Indian cinema, with its casting decisions and creative choices frequently becoming topics of discussion online.
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Aug 3, 2026During the conversation, Rawal also reflected on the relationship between films and public sentiment. She said cinema has a powerful influence on society, adding that filmmakers and actors should understand how audiences connect emotionally with culturally significant stories and characters.
While discussing Ranbir Kapoor's casting, Rawal referred to one of the actor's old public remarks in which he described himself as "a big beef guy." She questioned whether that statement should be addressed before he appears as Lord Ram, saying many devotees continue to hold the character in the highest regard.
According to Rawal, a public apology from Kapoor could help ease the concerns of people who felt hurt by the earlier comment. She also urged those who support her view to participate in the online campaign using the hashtag #BoycottRanbirKapoor until, she said, the actor offers an apology.
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Jul 31, 2026Her remarks have sparked fresh debate across social media platforms. While several users agreed that actors portraying respected religious figures should be mindful of public feelings, others argued that an artist's personal views or past statements should not determine whether they are suitable for a role.
The discussion has added another chapter to the ongoing conversation surrounding Ramayan. As anticipation for the film continues to build, opinions remain divided over where the line should be drawn between an actor's personal life and the expectations attached to portraying one of India's most revered cultural and religious icons.
