Shri Ramlila Mahasangh Seeks Pre-Release Screening of Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana, Warns of Protests
New Delhi: Nitesh Tiwari's much-awaited epic Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Sunny Deol and Yash, has landed in the spotlight months before its theatrical release. This time, the discussion revolves around a demand made by the Shri Ramlila Mahasangh, which has asked the filmmakers to arrange a special screening before the film reaches cinemas.
Shri Ramlila Mahasangh President Arjun Kumar has written to director Nitesh Tiwari and the production house, requesting that representatives of the organisation be allowed to watch the film before its release. According to the letter, the screening would help ensure that no scene or dialogue unintentionally hurts the religious sentiments of devotees.
The organisation has also referred to the controversy surrounding Adipurush, saying that several creative choices in that film triggered objections from members of the Sanatan community and people associated with traditional Ramlila performances. It argues that avoiding similar controversies before release would be in the interest of both the audience and the filmmakers.
Arjun Kumar has claimed that the Mahasangh has received information suggesting that certain portions of Ramayana could become a subject of debate. However, these claims have not been independently verified. The organisation says its request for a preview screening is aimed at preventing unnecessary disputes before the film's release.
The letter further states that if the request is ignored, Shri Ramlila Mahasangh, along with other Hindu organisations, may organise demonstrations outside cinema halls in Delhi and other parts of the country.
As of now, the makers of Ramayana have not issued any official response to the demand. Whether a special screening will be held before the film's release remains to be seen.