Poonam Pandey as Mandodari: Actress and reality show contestant Poonam Pandey, famous for hosting exciting controversies, has once again attracted headlines. Pandey was selected by Delhi’s prestigious Luv Kush Ramlila Committee to perform as Mandodari, wife of Ravana, for this year’s Ramlila which is to be held at the iconic Red Fort grounds. It is scheduled for September 22 through October 3. While most events around the announcement bubble with heated debates, it has sounded lively across political and cultural circles.
The BJP and VHP have objected strongly to Pandey’s selection. Praveen Shankar Kapoor, the BJP leader, wrote to the organizers urging reconsideration of the decision, saying the Luv Kush Ramlila has a tradition of attracting large crowds and should maintain a cultural image. So did VHP state secretary Surendra Gupta, who said it must be someone with a more traditional reputation for Mandodari. Critics argue that Pandey’s image, built up through her controversial appearances plus social media contents, does not align with the dignity of a revered character.
However, the same uproar did not deter Luv Kush Ramlila Committee president, Arjun Kumar, from supporting Poonam Pandey. He illustrated that Ramlila is a story and performance and opportunity must be given to every artist. The committee highlighted that there are over 500 artists participating in this grand event with the performance of Pandey to take place on September 29-30. Kumar further added that nothing is wrong with a woman playing a character symbolizing goodness.
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The controversy manifested is a mere reflection of the growing conflict between tradition and evolving forms of artistic expression. So many see the casting of Pandey as a sign of disrespect, while others interpret it as one of inclusivity and creative freedom. The debate, because Ramlila is both cultural and religious spectacle. It is still able to capture the attention of many citizens around the nation.
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