Sai Pallavi as Sita: OG Dipika Chikhlia backs casting amid online backlash
Synopsis
The actress who defined Sita for an entire generation has spoken — and she is not joining the pile-on. Dipika Chikhlia says the online fury over Sai Pallavi's casting in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana is simply 'the love of the people' for the 1987 original, and predicts audiences will come around once the film hits screens.
Key Takeaways
Dipika Chikhlia , who played Sita in Ramanand Sagar's 1987 Ramayan , has backed Sai Pallavi's casting in the upcoming film Ramayana .
Chikhlia earlier noted that Pallavi's appearance — including her curly hair — does not match the physical description of Sita in Tulsidas' Ramayan .
She later clarified she considers Pallavi 'a very good actor' based on her South Indian film work.
Ramayana: Part One stars Ranbir Kapoor as Ram and Yash as Ravana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari .
The film is reportedly targeting a Diwali 2025 theatrical release.
Actress Dipika Chikhlia, who immortalised the role of Sita in Ramanand Sagar's landmark 1987 television series Ramayan, has weighed in on the fierce online backlash surrounding the casting of Sai Pallavi as Sita in director Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming big-screen epic Ramayana. Speaking to reporters, Chikhlia expressed understanding for the public reaction while ultimately backing the new cast.
The Backlash Explained
Social media has seen significant criticism directed at the choice of Sai Pallavi for the role, with many viewers drawing unfavourable comparisons to Chikhlia's iconic portrayal. The debate intensified after Chikhlia herself, during an earlier interaction with an online portal, noted that Tulsidas' Ramayan describes Sita with specific physical attributes — almond eyes, a particular height, complexion, and straight hair — and observed that Pallavi's appearance, including her curly hair, does not strictly match that classical description.
What Dipika Chikhlia Said
Chikhlia has since clarified her position, attributing the public resistance to the enduring emotional impact of the original 1987 serial rather than any personal critique of Pallavi. '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,' she said.
In a subsequent podcast appearance, Chikhlia went further, saying she has watched Sai Pallavi's work in South Indian cinema and considers her 'a very good actor.' She added that having played Sita herself, she does not wish to say anything negative about another actress taking on the same revered role.
The Film and Its Cast
Ramayana: Part One features Ranbir Kapoor as Ram and Yash as Ravana, alongside Pallavi's Sita. The film is reportedly slated for a Diwali release this year, making it one of the most anticipated Hindi films of 2025. Director Nitesh Tiwari, known for Dangal and Chhichhore, is helming what is expected to be a large-scale mythological production.
Why the Debate Runs Deep
The controversy reflects a broader cultural tension in India around the adaptation of sacred epics for mainstream cinema. Ramanand Sagar's Ramayan aired during a formative period in Indian television history and drew record viewership, embedding its cast — particularly Chikhlia and Arun Govil as Ram — into the collective imagination of millions. Any reinterpretation of these characters inevitably invites comparison. Notably, this is not the first time a big-budget Ramayana adaptation has faced pre-release scrutiny over casting choices. As the release date approaches, audience reception will ultimately determine whether Pallavi's portrayal earns the same acceptance.
Point of View
Or whether it will forever be measured against a 38-year-old television production shot on a fraction of the budget.
NationPress
3 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there a backlash against Sai Pallavi being cast as Sita?
Many viewers have compared Sai Pallavi unfavourably to Dipika Chikhlia, who played Sita in the beloved 1987 TV series Ramayan. Some critics also point to descriptions of Sita in Tulsidas' Ramayan — including references to almond eyes, specific complexion, and straight hair — which they argue Pallavi does not match.
What did Dipika Chikhlia say about Sai Pallavi's casting?
Chikhlia said she understands the public confusion but believes audiences will accept Sai Pallavi once the film releases. She also praised Pallavi as 'a very good actor' based on her South Indian film work, and said she does not wish to say anything negative about another actress playing the same role she once held.
Did Dipika Chikhlia criticise Sai Pallavi?
In an earlier interview, Chikhlia noted that Pallavi's physical appearance — including her curly hair — does not match the classical description of Sita in Tulsidas' Ramayan. However, she later clarified her remarks on a podcast, expressing admiration for Pallavi's acting and distancing herself from any personal criticism.
Who else is in the cast of Ramayana: Part One?
Ranbir Kapoor plays Ram and Yash plays Ravana in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana: Part One, with Sai Pallavi as Sita. The film is reportedly targeting a Diwali 2025 release.
Who directed the original 1987 Ramayan TV series?
The iconic 1987 Ramayan was directed and produced by Ramanand Sagar. It aired on Doordarshan and became one of the most-watched programmes in Indian television history, with Dipika Chikhlia and Arun Govil in the lead roles.
