Following intense criticism from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), the organizers of the Lav Kush Ramlila Committee have decided to part ways with actress Poonam Pandey. She was initially cast to portray Mandodari, the wife of Ravana, in Delhi’s esteemed 46-year-old Ramlila.
Both BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor and VHP regional head Surendra Jain had formally communicated their concerns to the Ramlila committee. They argued that given Ms. Pandey’s controversial public image, her participation in the mythological epic would deeply wound the religious feelings of the public.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, Arjun Kumar, president of the Lav Kush Ramlila Committee, which stages the event at Red Fort, confirmed the change. He stated that the committee’s decision to replace the actor for Mandodari’s role was a direct response to the strong objections raised by members of the Hindu community. Ms. Pandey has been informed of this development.
Prioritizing Unity and Peace
“Ms. Pandey was genuinely enthusiastic about her role and had even begun fasting to seek divine blessings. It’s truly unfortunate that we had to remove her from the Ramlila,” Mr. Kumar expressed.
He further elaborated that Lord Ram’s teachings emphasize ‘unity and peace’ for all. If disagreements over casting choices within the Ramlila begin to divide society, it would undermine the very essence of the play and the profound life lessons of the lord.
“Our aim is not to sow division within society in the name of Ramlila. Therefore, it was deemed best to discontinue with Ms. Pandey’s involvement. I still believe everyone deserves a chance to evolve,” he added.
Decision Applauded by BJP and VHP
The Lav Kush Ramlila Committee’s decision to drop Ms. Pandey was warmly received by Praveen Shankar Kapoor, Delhi BJP media head and spokesperson. He noted that the initial announcement of Ms. Pandey’s casting had provoked widespread outrage among religious leaders, as well as social and political figures across Delhi.
“By removing Poonam Pandey from the role of Mandodari, the Lav Kush Ramlila Committee has demonstrated profound respect for the religious sentiments of both the spiritual community and the general public,” stated Mr. Kapoor.
Surendra Gupta, secretary of the VHP Delhi region, also commended the committee’s choice. In his letter to the organizers, he had previously clarified that the VHP was not opposing any particular artist, but rather seeking to safeguard the cultural integrity of public events connected to sacred texts like the Ramayana, and the unwavering faith of devotees.
CM Extends Festival Timings for Ramlila and Dandiya
In related news, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced on Tuesday that the BJP government in the capital has extended the permissible hours for Ramlila, Dandiya, and other cultural festivals from 10 p.m. to midnight.
Previously, there was a strict ban on the use of loudspeakers for any function or cultural event in Delhi after 10 p.m.
“I have consistently observed the challenges faced by our Hindu festivals… Ramlila and Durga Puja can simply not conclude by 10 p.m. When Dandiya celebrations can extend throughout the night in Gujarat, and similar events occur all night in other states, why should Delhi’s populace be deprived? This is why we have now granted permission for all Ramlila, Durga Puja, and other cultural-religious festivities to continue until midnight,” Ms. Gupta affirmed.