Actor Prakash Raj has landed in legal trouble after remarks linked to the Ramayana resurfaced online, drawing criticism and prompting a formal complaint over alleged hurt to religious sentiments.
Remarks at literature festival resurface
The controversy traces back to an interaction at the Kerala Literature Festival earlier this year, where Raj was in conversation with journalist Shahina KK. During the session, he recounted a creative retelling of a Ramayana episode originally performed by a children's theatre group.
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In the narration, characters, including Lord Ram, Lakshman, Ravana and Shurpanakha were part of a fictional exchange over fruits taken from Ravana's land. Raj added a contemporary touch with references to payment, discounts and GST. According to the story, Ram and Lakshman, unable to pay, are advised by Ravana to plant seeds and grow trees before leaving.
Complaint filed, legal action awaited
Clips from the event later circulated widely, with some sections of the public calling the retelling disrespectful. The issue escalated after advocate Amita Sachdeva filed a complaint on April 16.
In her submission, she termed the remarks "deliberately malicious acts" meant to outrage religious feelings. Identifying herself as a devout Hindu, she said her sentiments were deeply hurt. Reports indicate a criminal case has also been filed, though official confirmation on charges is still awaited. Raj and his legal team have not issued a statement so far.
Wider debate and divided reactions
The controversy has triggered a wider debate online, with opinions split. While some users criticised the actor for allegedly disrespecting religious traditions, others defended his creative interpretation, saying storytelling has evolved over time.
His comments during the same session on broader socio-political themes, including cultural differences between North and South India and opposition to ideas like "one nation, one election", have also drawn attention.
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Impact on work and recent developments
Calls for boycotting his projects have surfaced on social media. One such film facing online criticism is Varanasi, where Raj is expected to portray Lord Shiva. However, there is no official indication of any impact on production or release plans.
On the professional front, Raj was recently seen in Dacoit alongside Adivi Sesh, Mrunal Thakur and Anurag Kashyap. The developments come shortly after he lost his mother, Swarnalatha Raj, in March 2026.
