Actor and erotic entertainer Poonam Pandey will no longer be portraying Mandodari, the wife of Ravana, in Delhi’s renowned Luv Kush Ramlila held annually at the Red Fort. The decision follows widespread backlash from several religious and political groups, prompting the organizing committee to reconsider its earlier casting choice.
Although, Poonam Pandey is not an “adult film actress” in the strict sense of the term, she is widely known for her provocative public persona, bold content, and sexually suggestive photoshoots and videos, which has led to her being associated with adult or erotic entertainment in popular perception.
The Lavkush Ramlila Committee confirmed the move during a press conference at the Constitutional Club of India. Committee president Arjun Kumar said, “An artist should be judged by their work, not their past. But in light of public sentiment, we had to review our decision.”
He added that while the committee respects Pandey as an artist, their primary goal is to promote the values of Lord Ram and preserve harmony. “We don’t want any controversy to overshadow this spiritual and cultural celebration,” Kumar emphasized.
The announcement comes nearly a week after protests by the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who objected to Pandey’s casting. In a letter to Pandey, the committee clarified that the decision should not be seen as disrespectful but as a step aligned with the spiritual values of the event.
The Luv Kush Ramlila, known for its grand scale and celebrity participation, attracts thousands each year. Though the committee initially defended Pandey’s inclusion, citing her film experience, they eventually yielded to public concerns.
