The Paradise, Varanasi: Discussion Over the Portrayal of Deities?

Audiences have already seen the form of Goddess Dhumavati in the film The Paradise. Meanwhile, the title teaser of Varanasi featured the form of Goddess Chhinnamasta. Both are traditionally associated with Tantric traditions. The portrayal of Goddess Dhumavati in The Paradise had earlier drawn objections from some sections over the chanting of certain mantras. Some groups expressed the view that such mantras should not be recited casually or outside their traditional context. With Goddess Chhinnamasta now being referenced in Varanasi, interest in the subject has grown further.

How director S.S. Rajamouli presents this divine form in the film is likely to become a topic of discussion after its release. In particular, how the portrayal is received by audiences with religious beliefs remains a point of interest. The element seen in Varanasi has already caught the attention of viewers. The discussion that began with The Paradise has now resurfaced with Varanasi. It remains to be seen how audiences respond once the film is released.