Luv Kush Ramlila Committee Replaces Poonam Pandey Amid Public Objections

Every year, the Luv Kush Ramlila at Delhi’s historic Red Fort draws massive crowds eager to witness the retelling of Lord Ram’s saga in a grand theatrical format. It has been a tradition for decades and is widely regarded as one of the most celebrated Ramlilas in the country. The news of popular actress Poonam Pandey stepping away from playing Mandodari has created a fresh buzz, sparking conversations among audiences and devotees alike.

Committee President Arjun Kumar and General Secretary Subhash Goyal revealed that Poonam Pandey had initially accepted the offer to play Mandodari after the committee invited her. The announcement, however, stirred controversy almost immediately. Various social and religious groups raised objections, expressing that her portrayal might not align with the sanctity and cultural expectations associated with the revered character.

The committee, in response, held internal discussions to address the concerns. Their statement emphasized that the primary objective of the Ramlila is to spread the message of Lord Ram and uphold the essence of Ramayana’s teachings. They feared that the controversy surrounding Poonam Pandey’s casting might distract from the spiritual and moral message of the event. After careful consideration, the decision was made to replace her with another artist.

While this may have disappointed a section of her fans, the committee stressed that their decision was taken in the interest of maintaining harmony and ensuring that the focus remains on the story rather than the controversy. They even wished Poonam Pandey the best for her future and expressed hope that she would appreciate the sentiment behind the decision.

This development once again highlights the delicate balance between artistic freedom and public sentiment, especially when dealing with mythological narratives that hold deep cultural and religious significance. The Luv Kush Ramlila has always been more than just a play — it is a socio-religious event attended by thousands, including political dignitaries, spiritual leaders, and families who see it as a yearly tradition.

As preparations for the Ramlila continue, audiences are now eager to know which artist will take up the role of Mandodari and how this year’s production will unfold. For the committee, this decision reaffirms their commitment to preserving the sanctity of the festival while ensuring that the portrayal of each character resonates with the audience’s expectations.