Ranbir Kapoor Faces Intense Backlash As Old Ganesh Chaturthi Video Resurfaces Ahead of ‘Ramayana’ Release

Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor finds himself at the centre of a social media storm as an old video, from Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in 2023, has gone viral again. In the clip, Kapoor is seen politely declining prasad (a devotional offering) after offering prayers, citing that he was “on a diet” before handing it to the paparazzi present at the event. The resurfacing of this video has sparked significant debate and backlash, particularly given his upcoming role as Lord Ram in the epic Ramayana. ‘Ramayana’ First Song ‘Jai Jai Ram’ Out: Arijit Singh, Shreya Ghoshal Illuminate Ranbir Kapoor-Sai Pallavi’s Divine Connection.

Ranbir Kapoor's Old Ganpati Pooja Video Goes Viral

The video shows Ranbir Kapoor at a Ganesh Chaturthi celebration, offering prayers to Ganpati Bappa. As a pandit (priest) offers him prasad, the actor accepts it but then turns to the gathered media, stating, “Main to diet pe hun, aap log kha loge?” (I am on a diet, will you guys eat it?).

He then passes on the offering. While the incident itself dates back to September 2023, its renewed circulation has ignited fresh discussions across social media platforms.

Ranbir Kapoor Refuses Prasad in Old Ganesh Chaturthi Celebration Video

How Netizens Reacted to Ranbir Kapoor's Video

The public reaction to the viral video has been overwhelmingly critical, with many questioning the actor's decision to refuse the religious offering, especially in the context of his portrayal of Lord Ram. Social media users have expressed their disappointment and anger, with comments ranging from questioning the sincerity of his devotion to outright calls for a boycott of his upcoming film.

One user reportedly commented, "On a serious note, one piece of sweet as a prasad won't affect your health in any negative health." Other remarks included, “Boycott for Ram role. It seems a bad casting for a divine role” and "Boycott all Ranbir Kapoor movies". Some harsh comments even linked his refusal to previous controversial statements about his dietary habits, with phrases like “Isko beef de dete to ye kha leta” being widely circulated. The controversy highlights public sensitivity around cultural and religious topics, especially when tied to high-profile roles.

Netizens React to Ranbir Kapoor's Resurfaced Video 

More About ‘Ramayana’

Ranbir Kapoor is set to star as Lord Ram in Nitesh Tiwari's ambitious two-part cinematic adaptation of the Hindu epic, Ramayana. The film, produced by Namit Malhotra's Prime Focus Studio and Yash's Monster Mind Creations, boasts a reported combined budget of INR 4,000 crore, making it one of the most expensive Indian film series to date. Kapoor will be joined by Sai Pallavi as Sita, and Yash as the formidable Ravana.

The ensemble cast also includes Sunny Deol as Hanuman, Ravie Dubey as Lakshman, and Arun Govil as King Dashrath. With music by Oscar-winning composers Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman, and VFX handled by the eight-time Academy Award-winning DNEG, the film is poised for a grand worldwide IMAX release. Ramayana: Part 1 is scheduled to hit cinemas during Diwali 2026, with an international release on November 5 and an India release on November 8, 2026, followed by Ramayana: Part 2 in Diwali 2027. ‘Ramayana’ 15-Minute Footage Wows Exhibitors, Gets Compared to THIS Oscar-Winning Hollywood Trilogy.

The intense online scrutiny over the prasad incident underscores the immense expectations and sensitivities surrounding Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal of such a revered mythological figure, as the film approaches its global debut.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 17, 2026 05:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).