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Months before its Diwali 2026 release, Ramayana has landed in controversy after the Shri Ramlila Mahasangh demanded a special screening, citing concerns over scenes that could hurt Hindu sentiments. Referring to the Adipurush backlash, the group warned of nationwide protests if its request is ignored

Months ahead of the release of Ramayana: Part 1, director Nitesh Tiwari's ambitious mythological epic has landed in controversy. The Shri Ramlila Mahasangh has written to the filmmaker and the production house, requesting a special screening of the film before its theatrical release and warning of protests if the demand is not met.

According to reports, the organisation's president, Arjun Kumar, has sent a formal letter seeking an exclusive preview for a delegation representing the Mahasangh. The group wants to review the film before it releases in India and overseas during Diwali this year.

In the letter, Kumar reportedly referred to the controversy surrounding Adipurush, the big-budget adaptation of the Ramayanaproduced by T-Series Films. Starring Prabhas, Kriti Sanon and Saif Ali Khan, the film had faced criticism over several creative choices.

The letter states that members of the Sanatan community and those associated with traditional Ramlila performances had objected to several scenes in Adipurush. Among the concerns were the depiction of Lanka in black instead of gold and the portrayal of Raavana and his army, which many believed did not align with traditional beliefs. Kumar also reminded the makers that the backlash had affected the film's box office performance.