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Actor Lahri Expresses Disappointment With Ramayana Film's Musical Score

Sunil Lahri, who portrayed Lakshman in the original television adaptation of the Ramayana, has voiced criticism over the music composition for Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming Ramayana film, despite the score being created by internationally acclaimed composers Hans Zimmer and AR Rahman.

LSN India · 5 November 2026

Sunil Lahri, best known for his iconic role as Lakshman in Doordarshan's legendary television series Ramayana, has publicly expressed disappointment with the musical direction chosen for filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari's cinematic adaptation of the epic. The actor's comments come despite the film enlisting the talents of two of the world's most celebrated composers—Oscar-winning Hans Zimmer and Indian maestro AR Rahman—for its score.

Lahri's critique appears to center on the artistic approach taken by the music composers, raising questions about whether the film's musical vision aligns with traditional interpretations of the ancient Hindu epic. The collaboration between Zimmer and Rahman represents an ambitious attempt to blend Western orchestral sensibilities with Indian classical and contemporary musical elements.

The Ramayana film, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, has been one of Indian cinema's most anticipated projects in recent years. Beyond its music composition, the project has generated significant discussion regarding its casting, direction, and the approach to bringing the revered mythological narrative to screen.

Lahri's remarks add to the broader conversation surrounding creative choices in adapting legendary texts for modern audiences, particularly when attempting to balance artistic innovation with cultural authenticity and audience expectations.