Sai Pallavi’s remarks about Ravana at the Los Angeles premiere of Ramayana: Rise of a Legend have sparked a debate on social media, with viewers divided over her interpretation of the mythological character.

The actor, who plays Sita in Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming epic, said Ravana was not all bad, suggesting that the Ramayana encourages believers to reflect on the good and evil within themselves. While some may see this as an attempt to explore the character’s moral complexity, others have questioned whether such interpretations are appropriate when discussing a revered religious epic.

Speaking to international media at the film’s global premiere, Sai Pallavi said, “As scripture, if you are a believer, you will see and try to introspect what is the good and bad that exists in you, because Ravana is not all bad. It is important that we spot Ravana in us, and we make changes over time.”

In the Ramayana, Ravana is the antagonist whose abduction of Sita sets off the conflict with Rama. Sai Pallavi’s remarks appear to focus on the epic’s moral lessons rather than justify the character’s actions. However, the comments have drawn attention amid the ongoing social media backlash over her casting as Sita, with some users questioning her suitability for the role and others defending her against appearance-based criticism.

At the premiere, the actor also spoke about the film’s visual effects and its potential to introduce Indian culture and epics to international audiences. Praising the technicians working on the project, she said, “If you are curious about Indian culture and epics, this could be the start where you could see the best version of Ramayana that exists.”

The cast and crew attended an invite-only 3D screening at the David Geffen Theatre at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. Ranbir Kapoor, who plays Rama, and Yash, who portrays Ravana, joined Sai Pallavi at the event. Yash arrived in an all-black outfit featuring a Ravana brooch and was accompanied by his wife, Radhika Pandit.

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra, Ramayana: Rise of a Legend stars Ranbir Kapoor as Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman.

Source: India Today