In a move that has ignited debate, the Luv Kush Ramleela Committee in Delhi has cast actor Poonam Pandey as Mandodari—the wife of Ravana—for this year’s Ramleela. The decision has drawn objections from the BJP and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), both urging the organisers to reconsider, citing concerns about cultural propriety and the sentiments of devotees.
Role Assignments and Objections
The committee has announced Poonam Pandey will play the role of Mandodari, while actor Arya Babbar is set to portray Ravana. Another prominent figure, a Member of Parliament, will play Parashuram.
The VHP has argued that Mandodari is a character who stands for virtue, dignity, chastity, and a devoted wife, and thus the choice of actor should reflect those ideals. They are concerned that Pandey’s past controversies and public persona might clash with those expectations.
Supporting View: Committee Defends the Casting
The Ramleela Committee has responded by insisting that there should be room for change and redemption. They argue that past controversies should not be a permanent disqualification for portraying revered characters.
According to the organisers, the role of Mandodari is positive in nature, and casting someone with a large following could perhaps also send a message of transformation and maturity.
What Are Critics Saying?
The BJP and VHP have formally requested the committee to drop Pandey from the role. Their letters emphasise respect for religious sentiments, and suggest that actors with traditional theatre backgrounds or those whose public lives align more closely with accepted moral standards would be better suited.
VHP’s provincial leadership in Delhi has stressed that Ramleela is more than just performance—it’s part of cultural heritage, and devotees’ feelings must be considered. There’s concern that public disquiet could overshadow the festival’s message.
Broader Implications
Cultural Sensitivities: This controversy highlights the tightrope between creative/artistic freedom in casting and the expectations of cultural and religious audiences during traditional events.
Public Image vs Tradition: It raises a question many cultural practitioners are facing: Can someone known for controversial or non-traditional public behaviour still be accepted in roles regarded as morally or spiritually significant?
Modern vs Traditional Theatre: The debate also brings into focus the shifting nature of stage arts and religious performances in urban settings—how much adaptation, reinterpretation, or casting flexibility is acceptable before tradition is said to be compromised.
What Happens Next
The committee has so far not indicated a change in their decision, reaffirming their confidence in Pandey’s ability to play the role.
Community leaders, festival organisers, and possibly political representatives may continue to engage in discussions. Public reaction will likely influence whether any damage control or compromise is attempted.
Given the visibility of Ramleela in cultural calendars, the episode may lead to broader conversations about guidelines or norms for casting in religious or mythological performances.
Final Take
The casting of Poonam Pandey as Mandodari has struck a chord because it touches the intersection of art, faith, public image, and tradition. While organisers believe in giving opportunities and acknowledging change, critics feel role models in such performances should carry a certain conduct suited to sacred narratives. What emerges next—whether a replacement, compromise, or continued assertion of this casting—may well influence how public cultural productions balance tradition and modernity going forward.
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