Sai Pallavi's casting as Mata Sita in Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana has faced criticism ever since the makers unveiled her first glimpses from the film. Many
felt that the South actress did not fit the role of the Hindu goddess. Even after the release of the Ranbir Kapoor and Yash starrer earlier this month, mixed reactions have continued pouring in on social media. Amid the ongoing debate, her OM co-star Dhanush has come out in her support. At an event for their upcoming film, the National Award-winning actor publicly defended Sai's casting.
Dhanush Calls Sai Pallavi The Perfect Sita
At the grand pre-release event of OM – Chapter 1: Udhiram – The Blood Wood, Dhanush praised Sai Pallavi and voiced his support amid the ongoing debate surrounding her casting as Mata Sita in Ramayana.
He said in Tamil, "There was a lot of noise around her playing the role of Sita. I don't get it. She even prays during the gaps between shots. She has so much devotion to God. She has a pure heart. She's beautiful and a great performer."
The South superstar further went on to declare, "Even if you search across the whole of India, you won't find another Sita like her."
#Dhanush on the Criticism Surrounding #SaiPallavi's Portrayal of Sita in #Ramayana:"There was a lot of noise around her playing the role of Sita.. I don't get it.. She even prays during the gaps between shots.. She has so much devotion to God.. She has a pure heart.. She's beautiful.. A great performer.. Even if you search across the whole of India, you won't find another Sita like her.." 🤝 https://t.co/enCh2DGk46
— Laxmi Kanth (@iammoviebuff007) November 14, 2026
Sai, who was seated among the audience, couldn't help but smile as Dhanush expressed his admiration for her.
Internet REACTS
Dhanush's statement has sparked mixed reactions on X. While some users agreed with his views on Sai Pallavi's casting for the role of Sita, others continued to question the choice.
"That is why she was chosen for Seetha’s role, people don’t get such roles just like that," commented a netizen. However, another went, "Let the audience speak what they want. Don't force and don't justify" One user opened, "Yes, we all know that she's talented and a very good actress but let's just accept the fact that she didn't suit for the role."
Some also took to the comments section of the viral video to share their views on Sai's performance, which they felt fell short of expectations. Among other criticisms, several users specifically pointed out her expressions in the much-talked-about Jatayu sequence.
Check out the reactions here:
Have you watched Ramayana? What's your take?
DISCLAIMER: The article is a compilation of thoughts posted by netizens and satire doing the rounds on the subject. Ideas expressed do not reflect the view of Times Network.
