Kozhikode: A controversy has emerged following the filing of a criminal complaint against actor and public figure Prakash Raj over remarks allegedly made during the Kerala Literature Festival. The complaint, lodged with the South District Cyber Cell of the Delhi Police, accuses the actor of making statements that mocked Bhagwan Shri Rama and the revered Hindu epic Ramayana.
I have today filed a Criminal Complaint against actor Prakash Raj (@prakashraaj) before the South District Cyber Cell, Delhi Police, under Sections 299, 302, 196, 352 & 353 BNS read with IT Act for deliberately mocking Bhagwan Shri Rama and the sacred Ramayana at Kerala… pic.twitter.com/xdkXzwGZ49
— Amita Sachdeva, Advocate (@SachdevaAmita) April 16, 2026
Allegations of Mocking Religious Beliefs
According to the complainant, the statements made by Prakash Raj during a public discussion at the festival in Kozhikode were not merely critical interpretations but amounted to deliberate ridicule of sacred figures in Hinduism. The complaint asserts that such remarks hurt the religious sentiments of millions of devotees and crossed the line between free speech and intentional insult.
BIG NEWS 🚨Criminal case filed against Prakash Raj for insulting Ramayana
He said Ramji was North Indian, Ravan was from south & they became enemies after Ram Ji stole fruits from Ravan
He joked $2000 GST bill fight with Surpanakha sparked entire epic 😳 pic.twitter.com/4G32iVss2C
— News Algebra (@NewsAlgebraIND) April 16, 2026
The complainant has taken a strong stance, stating that repeated instances of perceived disrespect toward Hindu deities and scriptures necessitate legal action to establish accountability.
Viral Video and Controversial Remarks
In a viral video from the event, Prakash Raj was seen addressing a large crowd and narrating a version of events related to Bhagwan Rama that has now drawn criticism. He allegedly described Lord Rama as a “North Indian” who travelled to the South, depicted as the land of Ravana, along with Sita and Lakshmana during their exile.
In his narration, he claimed that Rama and Lakshmana, while hungry, consumed fruits found in the forest, which he described as belonging to Ravana’s land. He further suggested that Surpanakha noticed them and informed Ravana. According to his remarks, Ravana was portrayed as allowing them to eat the fruits.
The actor then added a satirical layer, stating that when Surpanakha later demanded payment, Lakshmana responded that they had nothing to offer due to their 14-year exile. Prakash Raj reportedly used sarcasm to say that the fruits were “chargeable with GST,” and that Ravana offered a “discount” through his sister. He continued by saying that since Rama could not pay, Ravana asked him to “sow seeds for the future.”
The remarks, delivered in a humorous and satirical tone, triggered mixed reactions from the audience, while some attendees were seen clapping and cheering, others remained neutral.
During the same session, Prakash Raj also commented that visitors to Kerala should be familiar with the Malayalam language. He further spoke about food choices, stating that no one should be forced to give up what they eat, in the context of debates around dietary restrictions.
Legal Provisions Invoked
The complaint invokes multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including Sections 299, 302, 196, 352, and 353. These provisions broadly relate to acts that may incite unrest, promote enmity, or disturb public harmony.
Additionally, provisions of the Information Technology Act, 2000, have been cited, indicating that the alleged remarks were circulated digitally, thereby amplifying their reach and impact. The Cyber Cell’s involvement suggests that authorities may examine not just the speech itself, but also its dissemination and public reaction online.
Prakash Raj is no stranger to public controversy. Known for his outspoken views on political and social issues, he has frequently engaged in debates that polarise opinion. He is often accused of making provocative statements. This latest complaint adds to the list of controversies surrounding the actor and may further intensify scrutiny of his public statements.
