Mumbai: Actor Nitish Bharadwaj, known for portraying Lord Krishna in the television series Mahabharat, has withdrawn his earlier praise for Ramayana: Part 1, criticising the film for allegedly deviating from the core values and philosophical essence of Valmiki’s Ramayana.
In a note shared on social media, the actor expressed disappointment with the film’s narrative and said the characters and their significance in the epic could not be casually redefined. He argued that the portrayal of its central characters should remain rooted in the values and message of the original Mahakavya.
Bharadwaj’s latest remarks mark a change from his earlier reaction to the film’s trailer, when he had praised director Nitesh Tiwari for his efforts.
Nitish Bharadwaj questions portrayal of epic characters
Beginning his note by describing the Ramayana as the DNA of Bharat (India), Bharadwaj highlighted its importance in the country’s civilisational and spiritual consciousness.
“The Ramayan is not just a story. It is deeply rooted in the civilisational and spiritual consciousness of Sanatan Bharat. Its heroes, heroine and antagonist were integral to the values and message of this Mahakavya (epic poem). Their character and significance cannot be casually redefined,” he wrote.
The actor particularly objected to what he perceived as a changed portrayal of Ravana in the film. He said presenting the character as an exceptionally liberal, socially just and fair figure altered the moral framework of the epic.
According to Bharadwaj, such a portrayal also undermined the purpose of Lord Rama’s avatar, as understood within the traditional narrative.
View this post on Instagram
Says visual effects cannot replace epic’s essence
Bharadwaj also questioned the emphasis on visual spectacle, arguing that technical presentation alone could not capture the depth of the original epic.
“A spectacle of VFX can never substitute for the core values, philosophical depth and spiritual essence of this Mahakavya,” he stated.
He concluded his criticism by alleging that the narrative of Ramayana: Part 1 misrepresented India’s history, heritage and core values.
The actor’s comments focus on the film’s interpretation of the epic and the creative choices made in presenting its characters. His note has also drawn attention because of his earlier positive response to the project.
Earlier praised the film’s trailer
When the trailer of Ramayana: Part 1 was released, Bharadwaj had shared an enthusiastic response and praised director Nitesh Tiwari’s efforts.
However, following his latest assessment, he has withdrawn that earlier statement of appreciation and expressed reservations about the film’s approach to the source material.
His comments have brought renewed attention to the debate surrounding cinematic adaptations of India’s epics, particularly the balance between creative interpretation and fidelity to traditional narratives.
Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi headline the film
Ramayana: Part 1 features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Yash as Ravana and Sai Pallavi as Sita. The film is directed by Nitesh Tiwari.
The second part of the film is scheduled to release during Diwali 2027.
Bharadwaj’s criticism adds to the discussion surrounding the ambitious adaptation, with questions about characterisation, interpretation and the treatment of the original epic likely to remain part of the conversation as the film progresses towards release.