Overview

• Delhi’s VHP chapter formally urged the committee to replace Pandey, arguing her public record could offend devotees and citing Mandodari’s association with virtue and dignity.
• The organising committee says it will proceed with its announced cast, defends second chances for women in public life, and notes it is open to discussion with critics.
• Delhi BJP media cell head Praveen Shankar Kapoor, who is also a senior vice-president of the committee, wrote to its leadership opposing Pandey’s casting.
• The Luv Kush Ramlila near the Red Fort is slated to start on September 22, with Pandey expected to appear late in the run, and organisers say no decision has been taken to remove her.
• This year’s production also features Arya Babbar as Ravan and BJP MP Manoj Tiwari as Parashuram, and reporting notes the event’s UNESCO-recognized cultural significance.