OG Sita Dipika Chikhlia Reacts to Sai Pallavi’s ‘Ramayana’ Casting, Says ‘Sita Ji With Curly Hair Is Not Mentioned’

As anticipation builds for Nitesh Tiwari's ambitious cinematic adaptation of the epic Ramayana, the original Sita, Dipika Chikhlia, has weighed in on the casting of Sai Pallavi in the revered role. Chikhlia, whose portrayal became synonymous with the goddess for generations of viewers, offered her perspective in a recent interview, stirring conversations about the authenticity and interpretation of mythological characters on screen. Ranbir Kapoor’s ‘Ramayana’ Trailer Release Postponed Hours Before Launch; Producer Namit Malhotra Reveals Reason Behind Decision.

Dipika Chikhlia on Sai Pallavi's ‘Ramayana’ Casting

Speaking to Variety India, Dipika Chikhlia praised Sai Pallavi's acting prowess, acknowledging her as a "phenomenal actor." However, Chikhlia expressed a degree of uncertainty regarding how Pallavi would visually embody the character of Sita. "I have seen her work. She's a phenomenal actor. But I don't know how she'll look like Sita. Once we see her, we'll know," Chikhlia stated. She further elaborated on the traditional depiction of Sita, drawing a clear parallel to how Ramanand Sagar approached the casting for his legendary series.

"The description of Sita in Tulsidas' Ramayan was that of a woman with almond eyes, a certain height, hair and skin. That's what Ramanand Sagar was looking for, and he saw it in me," Chikhlia explained. She then made a specific observation that has garnered significant attention: "Sitaji with curly hair is not mentioned in Ramayan." Chikhlia also reflected on the enduring legacy of her Ramayan, asserting that it would "weigh very heavily" on any new adaptation. She candidly shared the challenges of being typecast after playing such an iconic role, admitting that it limited her career opportunities.

Nitesh Tiwari's ‘Ramayana’

Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana is an ambitious two-part cinematic event, produced by Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Ltd. and Monster Mind Creations, with co-production by Yash's Monster Mind Creations. The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast and is reportedly being made on a grand budget exceeding INR 4,000 crore. Music for the epic is being composed by a powerhouse duo: A.R. Rahman and Hans Zimmer.

The film recently held a 'Pratham Sankalp' event in New Delhi where initial footage was showcased. The global panel for its highly anticipated trailer was held today, July 24, 2026, at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC), with leading stars Ranbir Kapoor and Yash, alongside director Nitesh Tiwari and producer Namit Malhotra, presenting the film.

The ensemble cast for Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming two-part mythological epic, Ramayana, features a massive cross-industry star lineup led by Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Kannada superstar Yash (who also co-produces) as Ravana. Sunny Deol steps into the role of Lord Hanuman, alongside Ravie Dubey as Lakshman, while Arun Govil, famed for playing Ram in Ramanand Sagar's iconic 1987 television series, returns to the narrative as King Dasharatha. Ranbir Kapoor Reveals Initial Fear Playing Lord Ram in ‘Ramayana’, Calls It Daughter Raha’s First Theatrical Experience (Watch Video).

However, the worldwide trailer launch, initially slated for today, has been postponed due to a new international distribution deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment, which will handle global distribution outside of India. Indian distribution is overseen by Karan Johar's Dharma Productions. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled for a Diwali 2026 release, specifically targeting November 8, 2026, in theatres, followed by Part 2 in Diwali 2027.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 24, 2026 12:07 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).