Despite record-breaking box office success, actor Nitish Bharadwaj expresses disappointment over the film's cultural representation.
The epic film Ramayana: Part One, featuring Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, has achieved remarkable success at the box office, grossing over ₹900 crore globally within its first week of release. The film, which debuted on November 5, has garnered significant attention, particularly in overseas markets, where it collected approximately USD 34.15 million (around ₹322 crore) in its first seven days.
On November 11, the film’s overseas earnings were boosted by a strong performance on a holiday in North America, contributing to a daily gross of USD 3.35 million (approximately ₹32 crore). With ₹603 crore from India, the total worldwide collection is expected to surpass ₹1000 crore shortly. Analysts predict that the film could reach between USD 60 million to USD 70 million in overseas markets, depending on its continued performance.
However, the film’s success has not been without controversy. Actor Nitish Bharadwaj, who initially praised the film and even predicted an Oscar win, has since withdrawn his support. He expressed his disappointment with the film’s portrayal of the Hindu epic, particularly the character of Ravana, played by Yash. Bharadwaj took to Instagram to voice his concerns, stating that the film alters the moral framework of the Ramayana and undermines its philosophical essence.
In his post, Bharadwaj emphasised the importance of responsible representation of India’s cultural heritage, arguing that visual effects cannot replace the core values of the epic. He expressed regret over his earlier enthusiasm, stating, “I am deeply upset and disappointed with this film. I withdraw my earlier post about it.”
Despite the mixed reviews, Ramayana: Part One continues to dominate the box office, showcasing the strong appeal of its star-studded cast and ambitious production. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the film features a talented ensemble, including Sai Pallavi as Sita and Ravie Dubey as Laxman.
