Steven Spielberg - Hindus Urge Steven Spielberg And Film Bosses To Be Sensitive About Ramayana Movie

America's Hindu leaders are urging Steven Spielberg and his partners at DreamWorks to seek expert help as they adapt the sacred scripture Ramayana as a new animated blockbuster to avoid a religious clash in 2015, when the film is released.

Scholars are concerned the Hollywood version of their ancient tale in Mumbai Musical will offend followers if the project isn't handled correctly.

DreamWorks executives announced plans to get started on the film with Enchanted director Kevin Lima at the helm earlier this month (Sep12) - but Hindu leaders fear it will become a project that mocks them rather than celebrates the religion.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed tells Wenn, "Ramayana is a highly revered scripture of Hinduism and the film should stay true to the story and the spirit of Ramayana. Insensitive handling of faith traditions sometimes results in the pillaging of some serious spiritual doctrines and revered symbols.

"We would urge the filmmakers to be sensitive towards our faith and traditions and carefully handle Hindu concepts and terminology. If DreamWorks Animation or their associates in this film needed any expertise on Hinduism related issues, I would gladly provide the resources."

He adds, "Ramayana is an integral part of Hinduism and it is held in such reverence that Hindus believe that simply reading or hearing of it showered blessings upon the reader or listener. Rama, the hero of Ramayana, was the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is worshipped by Hindus."