Ramayana Costume Row Rimple Defends Her ‘Ramayana’ Vision

As Ramayana dominates headlines, its costumes have emerged as the latest talking point. Designer Rimple Narulah says the much-debated looks of Sai Pallavi’s Sita, Lara Dutta’s Kaikeyi and Rakul Preet Singh’s Shurpanakha are rooted in research, craftsmanship and artistic interpretation.

Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi’s Ramayana has been under the scanner ever since its first look dropped. While the film’s casting and VFX have already fuelled conversations, it is now the costumes that have divided audiences.

The styling has drawn criticism online, with many questioning the use of stitched blouses, ornate drapes and contemporary silhouettes, while others compared the looks to television serials.

For Rimple, the project carried a responsibility far beyond costume design. “Ramayana is not just another epic saga getting remade. It has always lived in our consciousness. It has been both a challenge and a huge responsibility because this wasn’t just another costume design assignment. It’s something for posterity. Through my creations, I’m trying to set a a reference point for generations to come, who will recall the Ramayana and its characters through what they see in this epic saga.”

Research, not reinvention

The biggest talking point has been Sita’s blouse, which many felt did not belong to the Treta Yuga. Responding to criticism that the costumes are historically inaccurate, Rimple says authenticity guided every decision. “We stayed away from a lot of new-age fabrics. We wanted authenticity and looked at natural dyes and natural fabrics. When light falls on the exile looks, you can see how the fabrics fray, crush and take shape. I have grown up with the iconography, calendar art and temple sculptures depicting goddesses draped in beautiful poshaks and vibrant sarees. Sita is a reincarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. I have always worshipped her in breathtaking, vibrant-coloured sarees with proper blouses, and that has remained in my imagination. That is my interpretation, which the world is not agreeing with. Everyone is asking, ‘Why the blouses?’ I would say, wait until the film releases.”

Every detail has meaning

The designer says the team consciously chose not to recreate the kanchuki, the ancient fitted bodice associated with women of that era, opting instead for a visual language that felt distinctly Indian while remaining relatable. “I wanted to create an Indian identity that felt rooted yet relatable. Kaikeyi’s green blouse represents Mother Earth, while the purple saree reflects the turmoil and darkness of her decision. That’s the colour story we have played with.”

She also dismisses criticism over the jewellery and embellishments.

“Jewellery and precious stones have always existed. We deliberately stayed away from tulle, nets and synthetic fabrics. Everything is handwoven. None of these textiles are powerloom-made.”

Rimple hopes the costumes will eventually be displayed in a museum so audiences can appreciate their detailing and craftsmanship up close.

Designed for the screen

Praising the cast, she says each actor brought a unique energy to the film, while the costumes had to balance authenticity with practicality. “I doubt many North Indian audiences are even acquainted with Sai Pallavi’s body of work. Apart from her immense talent, she has always been known for her simplicity and no-makeup look. Whether it’s Yash, who is so calm and easy to work with, or Ranbir, who is incredibly professional, these are actors with their own legacy. But for me, the exciting part was to completely redefine every character and give each one a distinct identity,” says the designer.

“Lord Ram is synonymous with calmness and valour, while Ravana represents ego. All these aspects had to be reflected through colour, texture and craftsmanship. The actors, including Sai Pallavi, are performing combat sequences in these costumes, so wearability was equally important. The authenticity lies in the details of the fabric and the craftsmanship,” she adds.

As the debate continues, Rimple has one request: let the film speak for itself before judging its visual world.

“Ramayana is not just another epic saga getting remade. It has always lived in our consciousness... It is something for posterity.”