‘Ramayana’ Trailer Sparks Memefest: Sai Pallavi, Lara Dutta’s Modern Sarees and Blouses Leave Fans Divided, Say ‘Ekta Kapoor Serial Vibes’
The trailer for director Nitesh Tiwari’s upcoming epic Ramayana: Part One has sparked widespread online debate over its costume design, with viewers questioning the modern aesthetic of sarees worn by Sai Pallavi and Lara Dutta. Many users took to social media and poked fun at the contemporary styling and compared it to modern television serials.
The release of the official trailer for director Nitesh Tiwari’s high-budget mythological film Ramayana: Part One has ignited widespread discussion online. While viewers praised the film's scale and high-profile cast featuring Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Goddess Sita, and Yash as Ravana, the preview faced unexpected social media backlash regarding costume design. Critics and fans on social media focused heavily on the modern aesthetics of the wardrobe, pointing to contemporary saree drapes and blouse cuts worn by characters like Queen Kaikeyi (Lara Dutta) and Goddess Sita (Sai Pallavi). ‘Ramayana’ Trailer Reactions: Yash’s Fierce Ravana and Ranbir Kapoor-Sai Pallavi’s Divine Avatars Set Internet Ablaze; Netizens Say ‘Indian Cinema Peaked Here’ (Watch Video).
Modern Outfits Highlighted in ‘Ramayana’ Trailer
The trailer showcases crucial narrative moments, including the scene where Queen Kaikeyi demands Lord Rama’s 14-year exile to the forest. However, viewer attention shifted to the visual presentation of the royal women. Dutta's costume features clean-cut borders, sleek contemporary tailoring, and salon-styled side-combed hair, while Sai Pallavi's attire similarly incorporates modern stitch lines and blouse cuts.
Watch the Trailer of ‘Ramayana’:
Many observers argued that the costumes resemble modern-day designer sarees rather than period-accurate attire suitable for an ancient era. Critics noted that the sleek aesthetic stands out against the historically inspired sets and backdrops, drawing comparisons to modern television dramas rather than a period epic.
Netizens React with Memes and Critiques
Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), were flooded with commentary and memes shortly after the trailer dropped. Many users questioned the historical authenticity of the wardrobe, with one user asking, "Modern saree, salon-styled side-combed hair... is this Treta Yuga or 2026?" Another user commented that the styling was "giving Ekta Kapoor serial vibes," referencing contemporary Indian daily soaps.
How Did Netizens React to Outfits Shown in ‘Ramayana’ Trailer?
‘Is This Really Treta Yuga?’
Another User Wrote
Despite the criticism, a section of the audience defended the artistic choices, praising Lara Dutta's screen presence and performance in her role. Supporters argued that cinematic adaptations often modernise visuals to appeal to contemporary global audiences without diminishing the core narrative. ‘Ramayana’: Who Plays Lord Vishnu in Ranbir Kapoor’s Upcoming Mythological Epic? Netizens Speculate.
About ‘Ramayana’
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra alongside Yash, Ramayana: Part One is a grand two-part cinematic adaptation of the ancient Indian epic. Built on a massive reported budget, the film features a star-studded cast including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol, Ravi Dubey, and Lara Dutta, with a musical score composed by Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman. Ramayana: Part One is scheduled for a global theatrical release during the Diwali festive season on November 8, with the second instalment slating a 2027 release.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 30, 2026 03:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).