New Delhi: Social media sensation and actress Anjali Arora, best known for her viral “Kacha Badam” moment, is stepping into one of Indian cinema’s most revered roles. She has been cast as Goddess Sita in director Abhishek Sharma’s upcoming mythological film Shree Ramayan Katha, scheduled for a Diwali 2026 theatrical release.
The announcement has sparked intense discussion online—ranging from praise for her transformation to criticism rooted in her past digital controversies—making the casting one of the most debated in recent mythological cinema.
First Look Revealed: A Traditional Portrayal of Sita
The makers recently unveiled Anjali Arora’s first look as Sita. Dressed in a saffron-toned saree, with minimal makeup, a red bindi, and traditional gold jewellery, she is seen holding a basket of fruits against a tranquil forest backdrop. According to the film’s creative team, the visual draws inspiration from the Aranya Kanda, depicting the years of exile spent by Ram, Sita, and Lakshman in the Dandaka forest.
The restrained styling signals the film’s intent to portray Sita with simplicity, grace, and emotional depth rather than spectacle.
Netizens Divided Over Casting Choice
While a section of viewers applauded Anjali for embracing a dignified and understated look, social media reactions quickly turned polarised. Critics questioned whether a figure associated with viral dance content and internet fame fits the spiritual gravitas of Goddess Sita.
Some users compared her casting to Sai Pallavi, who will portray Sita in Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayan, arguing that traditional mythological roles demand a different public perception. Others, however, pushed back against such criticism, urging audiences to judge the performance rather than the actor’s past online image.
The Viral MMS Controversy and Its Aftermath
Much of the backlash traces back to August 2022, when a morphed and AI-generated explicit video was falsely circulated online in Anjali Arora’s name. Though the clip was later confirmed to be fake, it caused widespread harassment and professional setbacks.
In January 2024, Anjali filed an FIR and defamation case against platforms and accounts that circulated the fabricated content. She has since spoken openly about the emotional toll of the incident and expressed solidarity with other digital creators targeted by similar misinformation.
Despite legal action and public clarification, the controversy continues to resurface—highlighting ongoing concerns around online abuse, deepfake technology, and the lasting impact of viral misinformation.
Director Abhishek Sharma’s Vision
Director Abhishek Sharma, known for blending contemporary storytelling with cultural themes, has described Shree Ramayan Katha as an emotionally driven retelling of the epic rather than a spectacle-heavy adaptation. Teasers released during Dussehra 2025 hinted at a narrative focused on Ram’s exile, moral dilemmas, devotion, and sacrifice, while retaining spiritual authenticity.
Casting Anjali Arora, according to industry observers, reflects the director’s willingness to take bold, unconventional choices in mythological cinema—prioritising performance potential over preconceived public narratives.
A Career-Defining Role
For Anjali Arora, the role of Sita represents a turning point—from viral fame to mainstream mythological cinema. As debates continue online, the final verdict will likely depend on how convincingly she embodies the revered character on screen.
With Shree Ramayan Katha gearing up for a festive release, audiences and critics alike will be watching closely to see whether the film—and Anjali’s portrayal—can rise above controversy and connect through storytelling.
