OG Sita Dipika Chikhlia reacts on online backlash over casting of Sai Pallavi as Sita
Mumbai, Aug 3
Actress Dipika Chikliya, who portrayed the role of Sita in Ramanand Sagar's 1987 TV series 'Ramayan,' opened up on the massive online backlash over the casting of actress Sai Pallavi as Sita in Nitesh Tiwari's forthcoming 'Ramayana'.
Speaking exclusively to IANS, Dipika was asked, "Ma'am, Sai Pallavi is being compared with you. There is a lot of backlash online that she doesn't fit in the role of Sita. What do you have to say?"
Reacting to this, she explained that the cast of the 'Ramayan' ended up making such a huge impact on the viewers that it has now become a little difficult for them to accept anyone else as these characters.
Dipika told IANS, "I believe that this is the love of the people. Arunji, me, Laxmanji, have made such an impact on the hearts and minds of the audience. So I understand that there will be some confusion. But I am sure that once the film is released, everyone will accept it."
Earlier, during an interaction with an online portal, Dipika had said that Sai Pallavi does not match the description of Sita provided in Tulsidas' Ramayan.
She had shared that Sita was described as a woman with almond eyes, a certain height, hair, and skin. Dipika further added that nowhere is it mentioned that Sita ji had curly hair like Sai Pallavi.
Later speaking during a podcast, she cleared the air, saying that she has seen Sai Pallavi's South movies and believes that she is a very good actor.
Dipika added that she had essayed that role of Sita, and now Sai Pallavi is also playing the same role, so she does not wish to say anything negative about it.
With Ranbir Kapoor as Ram and Yash as Ravana, 'Ramayana: Part One' is likely to be released in the cinema halls on Diwali this year.
— IANS
Reader Comments
I grew up watching Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan and it's deeply etched in our collective memory. Dipika ji, Arun ji - they are icons for millions. But times change, and new interpretations are always going to happen. Nitesh Tiwari is a brilliant director and I trust his vision. Ye log pehle film aane de, phir decide karein ki Sai Pallavi sahi hain ya nahi.
As someone who watches Indian cinema from abroad, I find the backlash a bit excessive. Sai Pallavi is one of the most talented actresses of her generation. The emotional depth and grace she brings to roles is incredible. Isn't the essence of Sita more about her character than just physical features? Let's celebrate this new interpretation instead of tearing it down.
Respectfully, Dipika ji initially made comments about Sai Pallavi not fitting the 'description' and now she's saying she's a good actor? Thoda contradictory lag raha hai. But at least she clarified she doesn't intend negativity. Let's focus on the film - with Ranbir as Ram and Yash as Ravan, this is going to be massive. Sai Pallavi will definitely shine in her own way.
Main in sab casting controversies se thak gayi hoon. Every time someone new plays a mythological character, there's trolling. Sai Pallavi is a phenomenal actor - her performance in 'Gargi' was outstanding. Devotion and character are not about skin color or hair texture. If we go by that logic, no one can ever play any character again. Let's give respect to both - Dipika ji for her iconic role and Sai Pallavi for her fresh take.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.