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Ramayana is doing well at the box office across the globe, but the film has also been receiving criticism from some Indian cinema veterans. The latest to comment on it is actor Nitish Bharadwaj, best remembered for playing Lord Krishna in B.R. Chopra’s iconic 1988 television series Mahabharat.

After watching the film, Nitish Bharadwaj said Yash’s Ravana is shown as “an exceptionally liberal, socially just and fair figure.” He felt this “alters the moral framework of the Ramayan and undermines the very purpose of avataar.” He further said that “a spectacle of VFX can never substitute for the core values, philosophical depth and spiritual essence of this Mahakavya.”

He then withdrew his earlier praise, saying, “I withdraw my initial appreciation. I am deeply upset and disappointed with this film. I withdraw my earlier post about it. I cannot find a single good word to say about it.”

Earlier, Bharadwaj had praised the film’s production design, cinematography and VFX. He thanked Hans Zimmer for collaborating with Indian cinema and called the film “Bharat’s next gift to world cinema after Satyajit Rai and Shekhar Kapoor.” He also predicted 100% Oscar recognition for Best Foreign Film and said he would watch the movie at least five times.

Bharadwaj has now completely changed his opinion about the film. A few days ago, Mukesh Khanna also criticised the portrayal of Sita. It remains to be seen whether more cinema personalities will comment on the film.