Adipurush director defends Saif Ali Khan's Raavan and his creative choice

Mumbai: The criticism and trolling surrounding the trailer of the Hindu mythological film Adipurush hasn't died down. The big-budget film was first criticised for its poor VFX.

Now it is being trolled for Saif Ali Khan's look as Raavan. Director Om Raut defended the portrayal by saying that it is his creative choice. He told Aaj Tak that the film's Raavan in today's time is demonic. "The one who has abducted our Goddess Sita is cruel. We have shown what Raavan looks like in today's time. This is not a film or a project for us but a symbol of devotion."

He added that the film is a mission for the entire production team. "We need everyone's blessings for this. Whosoever is speaking about the film are our elders. I am listening to all of them and taking note of everything. When you will watch the film in January 2023, I will not disappoint anyone."

The pan-Indian film stars Prabhas (as Lord Ram), Kriti Sanon (as Sita), and Saif Ali Khan in leading roles.

Following the trailer release, a plea seeking the stay of the movie has been moved in a Delhi court. It alleges that Lord Ram and Hanuman are portrayed in an unwarranted and inaccurate depiction of wearing leather straps. The petition also mentioned the "wrong appearance" of Raavan.

It further said the trailer hurt the religious sentiments of devotees. "Lord Rama is shown as an angry man on a killing spree. Lord Hanuman and Lord Rama are also shown wearing leather accessories in a teaser uploaded on the YouTube page of the producer. It has hurt religious, cultural, historical, and civilizational sentiments."