Social media personality Anjali Arora, who rose to fame after her videos on the viral Kacha Badam trend, is set to make her acting debut as Mata Sita in the upcoming mythological film Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha – Shri Ram Ki. The film’s teaser was unveiled recently, introducing Arora as Sita and Dev Sharma as Lord Ram. However, the first glimpse has already triggered mixed reactions online, with several viewers criticising the film’s visual effects.
Arora’s casting has become one of the biggest talking points surrounding the project. She first gained widespread recognition through her social media videos, particularly after a dance reel on the Bengali song Kacha Badam went viral. She subsequently appeared on Kangana Ranaut’s reality show Lock Upp, further establishing herself as a digital celebrity. Her decision to portray Sita marks a significant move from influencer and reality television personality to feature-film actor.
The teaser offers glimpses of the central events of the Ramayana, including the wedding of Ram and Sita, their journey into exile and the appearance of Ravana. Arora is shown in traditional attire as Sita, while Dev Sharma portrays Ram. The project is being positioned as a cinematic retelling of the epic rather than a contemporary adaptation.
While the casting attracted considerable attention, the film’s visual effects quickly became another major subject of discussion. Several social media users criticised what they considered dated or unconvincing VFX in the teaser. The reactions have drawn comparisons with previous mythological projects that faced similar criticism for their computer-generated imagery.
Some viewers were particularly unhappy with the overall appearance of the teaser and questioned whether the visual effects were suitable for a large-scale retelling of the Ramayana. Others focused specifically on the casting of Arora, arguing that her previous career as a social media influencer did not prepare audiences for seeing her in the role of Sita.
Comments on social media ranged from criticism of the casting to outright disbelief at the film’s visual presentation. Some users described the development as a sign of “Kalyug”, while others questioned why Arora had been chosen for such a culturally significant role. These reactions reflect individual opinions online rather than an established assessment of the film itself.
At the same time, there were viewers who defended the casting and argued that Arora should be judged on her performance rather than her previous social media career. The film’s theatrical release will ultimately provide a better indication of whether she can successfully transition from influencer to actor.
Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha is directed by Abhishek Singh and produced by Prakash Mahobia and Sanjay Bundela under the Mahobia Films banner. Ajay Kanojia’s AJ Film Entertainment World is presenting the project. The film is expected to be released in both Hindi and Chhattisgarhi.
The film is scheduled to reach cinemas on September 25, 2026, putting it in the middle of a period when several major projects based on Indian mythology are attracting attention.