Mumbai: Behind-the-scenes photographs of Sai Pallavi from Ramayana: Part I have gone viral on social media, with fans praising her portrayal of Sita and describing her appearance as authentic. The pictures offer glimpses of the actor in different looks from the film, including Sita’s bridal attire, her forest exile appearance and a sequence in which she is seen wearing a yellow saree.
The film, which released in theatres on November 5, 2026, has attracted considerable attention from audiences. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the first instalment of the ambitious adaptation of the Indian epic features Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as Ravana.
As the film continues its theatrical run, fan pages have been sharing photographs from its production. The images have renewed interest in Sai Pallavi’s transformation into Sita, particularly because several of the looks reflect different stages of the character’s journey in the story.
Among the photographs attracting attention is one showing the actor in a simple saffron saree, with floral accessories, a red bindi and sindoor. The understated appearance has received particular appreciation from viewers who believe it captures the traditional image of Sita during her period of exile.
Sai Pallavi’s different looks as Sita in Ramayana
The viral photographs showcase several costumes and appearances created for Sai Pallavi’s role. One of the most widely discussed images features her wearing a plain saffron saree, accompanied by minimal accessories and flowers in her hair.
According to fan-page posts, the photograph is believed to be from one of the actor’s initial look tests for Sita’s exile appearance. The simplicity of the styling has become a major talking point, with fans appreciating the decision to present the character in a relatively understated manner.
Another photograph shows Sai Pallavi in a bright yellow saree. The outfit is also seen in a fight sequence in the film, giving audiences a glimpse of the visual treatment used for the character during the action portions.
The yellow saree look has attracted attention for a different reason. A fight sequence involving Sita has sparked criticism among some viewers, who have questioned the filmmakers’ interpretation of the events described in religious scriptures.
Social media users have argued that Lord Rama alone fought the 14,000-strong demon army led by Khara and Dushana. The criticism has focused on whether the film’s depiction of the confrontation remains consistent with the traditional account. The debate has become one of the talking points surrounding the film, alongside discussions about its casting, costumes and visual presentation.
However, the behind-the-scenes photographs have also generated positive reactions, particularly among fans who have praised the visual design of Sita’s character.
Bridal look from Rama and Sita’s wedding sequence
One of the most striking photographs shows Sai Pallavi in a red bridal couture ensemble from the wedding sequence of Lord Rama and Sita.
The actor is seen wearing elaborate jewellery, with traditional alta completing the bridal appearance. The detailed costume has attracted attention for its rich design and ornate presentation.
A fan page has claimed that the bridal outfit weighed around 22 kg. However, this detail has been shared as a fan-page claim and has not been independently confirmed.
The wedding look offers a contrast to the simpler costumes seen in the exile photographs. While the bridal ensemble features elaborate detailing and jewellery, the saffron saree appearance relies on minimal styling.
Another behind-the-scenes image provides a closer view of Sai Pallavi’s portrayal of Sita. She is seen wearing a saree with a veil tucked beneath the choodamani, along with studded jewellery. The photograph highlights the traditional elements incorporated into the character’s appearance.
The different costumes appear to represent distinct moments in the narrative, from the wedding of Rama and Sita to their life in the forest. For viewers, the photographs provide an opportunity to examine the costume design and the effort involved in creating the visual identity of the characters.
Forest exile look receives special appreciation
Among the images circulating online, Sai Pallavi’s simple exile appearance has received particularly warm responses.
One photograph shows her dressed in a modest saree, reflecting Sita’s life in the forest. Another monitor image features Ranbir Kapoor as Rama and Ravi Dubey as Lakshman alongside Sai Pallavi’s Sita in a forest setting.
The images have prompted fans to discuss how the film presents the characters during their exile. Some viewers have praised the relatively restrained styling, suggesting that it suits the character and the circumstances depicted in the story.
The exile look has also become a major part of the online appreciation for Sai Pallavi. Unlike the elaborate bridal costume, the forest appearance places greater emphasis on simplicity and traditional styling.
The monitor photograph featuring the three principal characters has further attracted attention because it offers a glimpse of the visual arrangement of Rama, Sita and Lakshman together. Their forest setting is an important part of the Ramayana narrative, making the photograph particularly interesting for audiences familiar with the epic.
Fans call Sai Pallavi an authentic Sita
The photographs have prompted a range of reactions on social media, with several users expressing admiration for Sai Pallavi’s appearance.
One fan wrote, “Sai Pallavi as Mata Sita is looking so authentic.”
Another user described the photographs as surreal, while a third praised the actor’s exile appearance, commenting, “The last picture is perfect as Sita Maa.”
The appreciation has largely centred on the simplicity of some of the costumes and the actor’s overall appearance in the role. For these viewers, the saffron saree and minimal accessories capture the qualities they associate with Sita’s traditional portrayal.
However, reactions have not been uniformly positive. A section of social media users has questioned whether Sai Pallavi and Ranbir Kapoor were suitable choices to portray Sita and Rama.
One user expressed the view that the two actors were not the perfect fit for the roles. Another acknowledged Sai Pallavi’s acting abilities but felt that she was not suited to play Sita.
The contrasting responses demonstrate the expectations surrounding a cinematic adaptation of the Ramayana. The characters have deep cultural and religious significance, and their portrayal often attracts strong reactions from audiences.
Ramayana: Part I features a prominent ensemble cast
The film features a large ensemble cast led by Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi and Yash. Ranbir plays Lord Rama, Sai Pallavi portrays Sita, while Yash appears as Ravana.
Ravi Dubey plays Lakshman, and Sunny Deol portrays Lord Hanuman. The supporting cast includes Lara Dutta as Kaikeyi, Kajal Aggarwal as Mandodari, Sheeba Chaddha as Manthara and Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha, among others.
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part I is one of the major cinematic releases of 2026. Its scale, casting and interpretation of familiar episodes have made it a subject of discussion among film audiences and followers of the epic.
Sai Pallavi’s behind-the-scenes photographs have added another dimension to that conversation. While some viewers have raised questions about the casting and certain creative choices, others have responded positively to her costumes and appearance as Sita.
With the film now playing in theatres, the viral photographs have given audiences a closer look at the work behind the character. The discussion around Sai Pallavi’s portrayal is likely to remain part of the wider conversation surrounding the film as viewers continue to share their opinions.