Dipika Chikhlia backs Sai Pallavi amid Sita casting backlash, believes audiences will accept her after ‘Ramayana’ releases: ‘I am sure that once the film is released, everyone will accept it’

The casting of Sai Pallavi as Sita in Nitesh Tiwari‘s ‘Ramayana’ has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many comparing her to Dipika Chikhlia’s iconic portrayal from Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayan’. Addressing the ongoing backlash, the veteran actor has now shared why she believes audiences will eventually embrace the new interpretation of the character.Speaking to IANS, Dipika was asked about the comparisons between her portrayal of Sita and Sai Pallavi’s upcoming performance, as well as the online debate over whether the latter is suited for the role. Responding to the discussion, Dipika said the overwhelming affection audiences continue to have for the original television cast has made it difficult for viewers to imagine anyone else stepping into those iconic roles.Chikhlia said, “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.”According to the veteran actor, such comparisons are inevitable when beloved characters are reimagined for a new generation.

Dipika Chikhlia’s earlier remarks on Sai Pallavi sparked debate

Dipika Chikhlia had previously been part of a discussion after commenting on Sai Pallavi’s suitability for the role of Sita. During an interaction with an online portal, she referred to descriptions of the character in Tulsidas’ ‘Ramayan’ and said Sai Pallavi’s appearance did not entirely match those traditional depictions.She had observed that Sita is described with specific physical features, adding that there is no mention of curly hair in those descriptions, unlike Sai Pallavi’s natural look.Following the controversy, Dipika addressed the issue during a podcast and clarified that her comments were not intended as criticism of Sai Pallavi.She said she has watched several of Sai Pallavi’s South films and considers her a talented performer. Dipika also explained that having portrayed Sita herself, she would never want to make negative remarks about another actor taking on the same role.

About ‘Ramayana’

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, ‘Ramayana’ features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana. The first instalment of the ambitious mythological saga is scheduled to release in theatres during Diwali 2026.