Nitish Bharadwaj Critiques 'Ramayana' Film, Withdraws Praise
Veteran Actor's Disappointment with 'Ramayana'
File image of Veteran actor Nitish Bharadwaj(Photo: IANS)
Mumbai, Nov 10: Renowned actor Nitish Bharadwaj, celebrated for his role as Lord Krishna in B.R. Chopra's iconic series ‘Mahabharat’, has voiced significant disappointment regarding the film ‘Ramayana’.
He has retracted his previous commendation of the movie. In a comprehensive statement, Bharadwaj highlighted that the Ramayana transcends mere storytelling; it embodies a vital aspect of India's cultural, spiritual, and civilizational legacy. He stressed that the characters and their moral values should not be carelessly reinterpreted.
Addressing his concerns, the actor elaborated on the essence of Lord Ram's incarnation, asserting that Mahavishnu assumed the Ram Avatar to uphold Dharma, maintain tradition, and establish Maryada. He criticized the film for depicting Ravan as an overly liberal and socially just character.
Nitish shared a series of reflections expressing his discontent with the film, stating, “RAMAYAN IS IN THE DNA OF BHARAT. The Ramayan is not merely a tale; it is intricately woven into the civilizational and spiritual consciousness of Sanatan Bharat. The characters, both heroic and antagonistic, are fundamental to the values and messages of this epic. Their essence cannot be casually altered.”
“THE PURPOSE OF RAM AVATAR. Mahavishnu took the Ram Avatar to uphold Dharma, parampara & establish Maryada. By portraying Ravan as an exceptionally liberal and fair figure, the film, in my opinion, distorts the moral framework of the Ramayan and undermines the very essence of the avatar,” he remarked.
In his statement, he added, “I WITHDRAW MY INITIAL APPRECIATION. I am profoundly upset and disappointed with this film. I retract my earlier praise. I cannot find a single positive aspect to mention. A visual spectacle cannot replace the core values, philosophical depth, and spiritual essence of this Mahakavya.”
“OUR CULTURAL LEGACY DESERVES RESPONSIBLE REPRESENTATION. This film, in my view, fails to accurately represent Indian cinema on an international stage when its narrative misrepresents Bharat's history, heritage, and core spiritual values,” stated Dr. Nitish Bharadwaj.
Previously, after viewing the trailer, Nitish had lauded ‘Ramayana’ and expressed optimism about its potential to win an Oscar in the Best Foreign Film category. However, his sentiments shifted after watching the full film, leading to his disappointment with its portrayal.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, “Ramayana” features a star-studded cast including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, Ravie Dubey, Arun Govil, and Lara Dutta. The film premiered in theaters on November 5.