Om Raut, director of Aadipurush, faced significant criticism following the film’s release in June 2023. Hindu groups criticized him for the perceived poor representation of Hindu Gods, while fans expressed disappointment in the film’s output and VFX. The backlash intensified as Aadipurush delved into the revered Ramayana, with audiences feeling the director failed to accurately portray this significant mythological narrative.
The release of Prasanth Varma‘s Hanuman further fueled the criticism, with fans suggesting that Om Raut should learn filmmaking from Varma. Despite initial expectations that the negativity would subside over time, it intensified after Hanuman’s release. Raut’s decision to attend the Ayodhya Ram Mandir opening ceremony added to the controversy, drawing ire from the audience.
In response to the ongoing backlash, Om Raut disabled commenting on his social media posts. The sustained criticism reflects the deep disappointment and hurt felt by audiences who had high expectations for Aadipurush’s treatment of the revered Ramayana. The director’s attempt to engage with the Ayodhya Ram Mandir ceremony further fueled the negative sentiments surrounding him.