HINDUS SEEK PRE-SCREENING OF “RAMAYANA” FOR HINDU SCHOLARS WORLDWIDE TO ENSURE SCRIPTURAL INTEGRITY

Face2News/Nevada

Hindus are calling for special pre-release screenings of upcoming film “Ramayana: Rise of a Legend” before a global panel of respected Hindu scholars, religious leaders and experts of Hindu scriptures; to ensure scriptural accuracy before its release on November five.

Distinguished Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that this initiative sought to ensure that the film respectfully represented the sacred “Ramayana”, one of Hinduism’s most revered scriptures and a timeless source of spiritual wisdom, moral guidance, and cultural heritage for about 1.3 billion Hindus; and its portrayal on screen carried deep spiritual significance for devotees across the globe.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, points out that proposed screening would provide this Hindu panel with an opportunity to examine the film’s narrative, characterization, spiritual themes, and portrayal of revered figures, including Bhagwan Shri Ram. The objective is to assess whether the cinematic interpretation remains faithful to the scripture’s essential teachings, traditional values, and religious significance while acknowledging the creative considerations involved in adapting an ancient epic for modern audiences.

Rajan Zed emphasizes that the initiative is intended to promote constructive dialogue between filmmakers and the global Hindu community, rather than restrict artistic expression. We want to ensure that “Ramayana: Rise of a Legend” honors the spiritual depth, cultural richness, and enduring legacy of the “Ramayana” while fostering greater understanding of Hindu traditions among audiences worldwide.

Zed indicates that The Ramayana is not merely a fable; it is a deeply revered and sacred living scripture that guides the lives, values, and worship of about 1.3 billion Hindus. The goal of the initiative is to help ensure that characters, teachings, and sacred symbols are portrayed with accuracy and reverence. Any cinematic adaptation of such a sacred and honored text carries a significant responsibility to preserve its spiritual integrity, dignity, spirit, and theological authenticity.

Rajan Zed expressed hope that the producers will welcome this collaborative approach, noting that scholarly endorsement could strengthen the film’s credibility and deepen trust within the global Hindu community. We want to ensure that the production respects historical and theological sensitivities while accurately reflecting the timeless values of duty, righteousness (dharma), and devotion embedded within the holy text; he added.

Zed urged director Nitesh Tiwari, producer Namit Malhotra, and global distribution partner Sony Pictures Entertainment to establish a transparent review process and engage in dialogue; fostering trust and mutual respect between the entertainment industry and the global Hindu community. Constructive engagement with experts would be beneficial both for filmmakers and audiences, Zed notes.

Filmmakers describe “Ramayana: Rise of a Legend” as: “Mankind’s greatest story comes to life”. Official synopsis states that— “Based on the celebrated ancient epic known to billions, Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana: Rise of a Legend tells the story of Rama, a prince bound by sacrifice; Ravana, an immortal king driven by vengeance; and the prophecy that binds their fates together”. It stars Ranbir Kapoor, Sunny Deol, etc.; while music is by Hans Zimmer and A. R. Rahman.