Anjali Arora As Goddess Sita Sparks Backlash, Netizens Question ‘Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha’ Casting
Anjali Arora’s casting as Goddess Sita in ‘Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha’ has sparked a heated debate online, with several netizens questioning the choice after the teaser dropped.
Aug 19, 2026 11:39 IST
Last Updated On
Aug 19, 2026 11:44 IST
Anjali Arora is set to take on one of the most revered characters in Indian mythology as she steps into the role of Goddess Sita in the upcoming film ‘Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha – Shri Ram Ki’. However, the first glimpse of the project has already sparked a heated online discussion, with some viewers questioning the decision to cast the social media star in the iconic role. The debate began shortly after the film's teaser was unveiled on Tuesday.
Anjali shared the video with her followers on Instagram, introducing audiences to her portrayal of Sita and offering a first look at the film's larger-than-life presentation of the ‘Ramayana’. While some viewers praised Anjali's appearance and expressed excitement about seeing her in the role, others were considerably less receptive to the casting.
Several reactions on Reddit criticised the decision to cast Anjali as Sita, with users arguing that the character carries immense religious and cultural significance for millions of people.
Anjali Arora as Maa Sita? Seriously?
by u/imfrom_mars_ in pj_explained
"Anjali Arora as Maa Sita? Seriously? Maa Sita is a deeply revered figure for millions. Casting choices for such roles should reflect dignity and sensitivity, not feel like publicity bait. This casting feels like a cruel joke on people’s beliefs," wrote one user.
Another user wrote, "Blasphemy."
“My blood boils seriously, isn't this very offensive, how did the makers do this and she be acting in maa sita role, i don't usually get angry on films casting nd all, but this is pure mockery of our beliefs. Ban this," commented one user.
Another user wrote, "Next Adipurush in line."
Directed by Abhishek Singh, ‘Mahakavya Shri Ramayan Katha – Shri Ram Ki’ is being produced by Prakash Mahobiya and Sanjay Bundela under the Mahobiya Film Production banner. The film features Dev Sharma in the lead role, with Anjali Arora, Sheel Verma, Rajniesh Duggal and Nirbhay Wadhwa in important parts.
The project is scheduled to arrive in cinemas on September 25, placing it in the spotlight ahead of another major cinematic adaptation of the 'Ramayana', starring Ranbir Kapoor, Yash and Sai Pallavi.
Anjali initially built a following through short-form videos, particularly dance and lip-sync content. Her popularity surged in 2022 after her dance video to the viral Bengali song 'Kacha Badam' became an internet sensation. The success earned her the widely used nickname 'Kacha Badam girl'. Later that year, Anjali entered the world of reality television with 'Lock Upp', hosted by Kangana Ranaut.
Her participation in the first season significantly expanded her visibility, with her friendship and much-discussed equation with fellow contestant Munawar Faruqui becoming a major talking point during the show. Anjali finished as the second runner-up and subsequently appeared in multiple music videos while continuing to build her presence across entertainment and social media.
