From questions surrounding the casting of its lead actors to debates over costumes, music, visual effects and intellectual property rights, the film faced criticism on several fronts.
1. Ranbir Kapoor’s Casting as Lord Ram
One of the earliest controversies surrounded Ranbir Kapoor’s casting as Lord Ram. An old interview from 2011 resurfaced on social media in which the actor had reportedly spoken about enjoying mutton, paya and beef.
The remarks triggered criticism from some sections of social media users, who questioned his suitability for portraying a revered religious figure. Discussions about his reported adoption of a sattvik lifestyle for the film and videos from his family’s Christmas celebrations also became part of the online debate.
2. Sai Pallavi’s Casting as Mata Sita
Sai Pallavi’s selection to play Mata Sita also attracted criticism. Questions were raised about her makeup, hairstyle, screen presence and Hindi-speaking style. Some viewers felt that her appearance was different from their traditional image of Sita.
Her costumes, particularly the design of her blouse, also became a subject of discussion. Costume designer Rimple clarified that the intention was not to recreate a particular historical period exactly but to present her own interpretation of Mata Sita.
An old interview in which Sai Pallavi expressed her views on violence and political-military conflicts also resurfaced, prompting objections from some people over her casting.
3. Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Reported Fee Demand
Kareena Kapoor Khan’s name had earlier surfaced in discussions about the role of Sita. Reports claimed that she had demanded twice her usual fee for the character.
However, Kareena later dismissed these claims and clarified that she had never been the first choice for the film.
4. Lara Dutta’s Look as Kaikeyi
Lara Dutta’s appearance as Kaikeyi also sparked debate after the promotional visuals were released. In the trailer, she was seen wearing a maroon saree with a golden border and a green blouse, along with a contemporary hairstyle.
Some viewers questioned whether the look was appropriate for a queen from the Treta Yuga, while others discussed the film’s interpretation of the character.
5. AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer’s Music Faces Criticism
The film’s music also received mixed reactions. AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer have jointly worked on the musical score.
Some listeners questioned the Sufi and qawwali influences in the song ‘Mangal Rang’, while the use of electronic music in ‘Ravana Tandav’ also attracted criticism. Responding to the reactions, Rahman had said that it was not possible to make everyone happy.
6. Debate Over Ramayana’s VFX and CGI
The release of promotional videos brought the film’s visual effects under scrutiny. While some viewers appreciated the jungle sequences, Ravana’s entry and the depiction of Pushpak Viman, others described certain visuals as artificial.
Some even compared the effects to AI-generated imagery. In response, behind-the-scenes videos showing the filmmaking process were released.
Ranbir Kapoor had said that viewers sometimes mistake carefully created CGI for AI-generated visuals. Producer Namit Malhotra and director Nitesh Tiwari also explained that the VFX work was incomplete when the initial trailer was released. Yash, meanwhile, appealed to audiences to watch the film with an open mind.
7. Mukesh Chhabra’s Old Remark About Ravana
Casting director Mukesh Chhabra also became part of the controversy because of an old statement. During a podcast in 2024, he had reportedly linked some of Ravana’s actions to his love for his sister, Shurpanakha.
The comment drew criticism from several quarters. Chhabra later apologised, clarifying that he had no intention of hurting anyone’s sentiments.
8. Dispute Over Script and Intellectual Property Rights
The film also faced questions over its script and intellectual property rights. Allu Mantena Media Ventures LLP issued a public notice claiming ownership of the script and related material associated with the Ramayana project.
According to the company, discussions had taken place with Prime Focus Technologies regarding the rights, but no final agreement had been reached by April 2024.
9. Ramayana Footage Leak Case Reaches Bombay High Court
In November 2026, the alleged leak of footage from the film became a legal issue before the Bombay High Court.
Godpower Media Private Limited claimed that videos recorded during a restricted screening had circulated online despite a confidentiality agreement. The company sought action against unauthorised recording and distribution.
The court passed an interim order prohibiting unauthorised recording, hosting, distribution and streaming of the film.
10. Religious Organisations Demand Special Screening
Before the film’s release, some religious organisations also demanded a special screening. Ramleela Mahasangh president Arjun Kumar wrote to the director requesting a screening for representatives of Hindu organisations and Ramleela committees.
The demand also referred to the controversy surrounding the 2023 film Adipurush. Given the earlier objections over its dialogues and portrayal of religious characters, the organisations wanted greater scrutiny of the new adaptation before its release.
With these controversies surrounding its casting, religious representation, music, technology and rights, Ramayana remained a major talking point even before reaching theatres. Now that the film has been released on November 5, audience reactions and its big-screen presentation are drawing attention.
