Manoj Muntashir dismisses simplistic Ramayana comparison of ‘Adipurush’

Manoj Muntashir, a veteran Bollywood lyricist, responded to recent media commentary that the mythological film “Adipurush” is being reduced to a simplistic retelling of the Ramayana. In an interview with The Indian Express, he said the comparison treats the ancient epic like a collection of nursery rhymes, ignoring its depth and cultural significance. He emphasized that the filmmakers are attempting a serious cinematic interpretation, not a child‑friendly version. While acknowledging that artistic liberties are part of any adaptation, Muntashir warned that equating the movie with elementary verses undermines both the source material and the effort of the creators. His remarks come as “Adipurush,” directed by Om Raut and starring Prabhas, has sparked intense public interest and debate over its portrayal of mythological characters, with a theatrical release scheduled for later this year.