Poonam Pandey removed from Delhi's Luv Kush Ramlila amid protests by Hindu Groups

Digital Desk

In a major controversy shaking the cultural scene, actress Poonam Pandey has been ousted from her role as Mandodari in Delhi's iconic Luv Kush Ramlila. The decision follows strong opposition from Hindu organizations, saints, and political figures, highlighting debates over cultural sanctity and artist backgrounds in religious events.

The Luv Kush Ramlila Committee, which has staged the event at Red Fort Ground for 46 years, confirmed the removal. President Arjun Kumar stated that while Pandey was excited and even observed a fast for blessings, the committee prioritized societal harmony. "Lord Ram's message is unity and peace. We don't want division over an artist," Kumar said, adding that everyone deserves a chance to change but the step was necessary to avoid unrest.

The backlash began after the announcement of Pandey's casting, with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leading protests. BJP's Delhi media chief Praveen Shankar Kapoor welcomed the verdict, noting it respects religious sentiments. VHP's Surendra Gupta emphasized maintaining the "cultural sanctity" of public events, clarifying the objection stems from Pandey's controversial social media image rather than personal bias.

Saints like Swami Jitendranand Saraswati and Jagadguru Balak Devacharya argued that Mandodari, a symbol of purity among the Panch Kanyas, demands an artist with dignified conduct. Even Computer Baba suggested Pandey suit a role like Shurpanakha instead, underscoring the need to honor Sanatan Dharma in Ramlila performances.

Initially, the committee defended Pandey as "just an artist" among 500 participants, hoping the role might inspire positive change. However, mounting pressure led to her replacement, with the role now assigned to another performer for the September 29-30 shows.