Buzz surrounding Nitesh Tiwari and Namit Malhotra’s *Ramayana* is intensifying. While the film has generated hype for quite some time, speculation and discussions have ramped up significantly since the first glimpse was revealed. Every detail—from Sai Pallavi’s casting to her costumes—is under scrutiny. Many social media users feel that Sai Pallavi does not fit the role of Sita.

Discussions on social media suggest that Sai Pallavi’s casting and costumes are not quite right for the epic *Ramayana*. Meanwhile, the costumes of Lara Dutta (playing Kaikeyi) and Rakul Preet (playing Shurpanakha) have also faced criticism following the release of the trailer.

Netizens have taken digs at Rakul’s modern look for the role of Shurpanakha. Speaking at the HT City Awards, Rakul explained that her costume was designed based on descriptions found in Puranas and books. She noted that people’s understanding of the *Ramayana* is largely limited to the TV serials and films they have previously watched.

Lara Dutta appears as Kaikeyi in the film, and her modern look has sparked considerable discussion. Although she is seen wearing a saree in the *Ramayana* trailer, this specific look has drawn heavy trolling on social media.

Netizens have remarked that, judging by her appearance, Lara Dutta looks like she stepped out of the TV show *Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai* rather than the *Ramayana*. Amidst this trolling, the costume designer for Lara Dutta’s role as Kaikeyi has finally broken their silence.

Lara Dutta’s costumes for *Ramayana* were designed by Rimple and Harpreet Narula. Speaking to *The Times of India*, they shared their reaction to the online trolling. In the interview, costume designer Rimple Narula addressed the criticism surrounding the film. She mentioned that the team had anticipated a variety of opinions regarding the film.

Rimple said, "A great epic like the *Ramayana* has been part of our collective consciousness for generations. Naturally, people hold diverse views on aspects such as casting, costumes, visual effects, and what is right or wrong. We were prepared for this. However, what kept us grounded was our sincerity towards our work."

She adds, "When I close my eyes and visualize Mata Sita, I do not think of the specific descriptions found in the Puranas. I wanted the Goddess—who resides in my temple—to look exactly as I have envisioned her all these years. It was a decision made with great deliberation."

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