Released in 1985, Ram Teri Ganga Maili remains one of Indian cinema’s most talked-about films, not just for its music and emotional story, but also for the boldness it brought to the screen—particularly in two controversial scenes involving actress Mandakini. Directed by legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor, the film marked his final directorial venture and introduced Mandakini in a role that sparked nationwide debate and, ultimately, sealed her place in Bollywood history.
Now, decades later, Mandakini has opened up in a candid interview with Hindustan Times, offering perspective on the infamous breastfeeding scene and the sheer-sari bathing sequence that drew both criticism and acclaim.
“First of all, it was not a breastfeeding scene,” she clarified. “It was shot in such a way that it could look like one. If I go on to explain how it was done, it would be too long (a story). The cleavage that is seen on screen, you see so much of it, it is all technically done.”
While the scene stirred controversy in the 1980s, Mandakini believes that the conversation surrounding it has aged out of relevance. “But the way skin show is done in today’s times, that was nothing. We should not be even talking about it. It (her scene) was also a pure form. Nowadays, it is all about sexuality.”
Mandakini's portrayal of Ganga, a character symbolic of purity and sacrifice, stood at odds with the visual boldness of the film’s imagery. But the actress insists the intent behind the scenes was never to provoke; instead, they served a deeper artistic and narrative purpose—something she feels is missing in many of today’s films, which she describes as leaning more toward objectification.
Ram Teri Ganga Maili starred the late Rajiv Kapoor and became a blockbuster hit, but its leads could not replicate the film’s success in later projects. Interestingly, in a 2023 interview with The Times of India, actor Padmini Kolhapure revealed that she was approached by Raj Kapoor to replace Mandakini after 45 days of shooting. However, she declined the offer—not because of the controversial breastfeeding scene, but due to her discomfort with kissing on screen.
Mandakini, when asked about this claim, responded with calm detachment: “I am not aware (of Padmini Kolhapure being approached for the role). I am only aware that everyone wanted to take up the role but Raj Kapoor wanted me because he wanted a fresh face. Not an established face, he has even said this. He said ‘how can I make someone pure Ganga if they have an established image?’ I don’t think any such thing….I don’t know.”
After staying away from the camera for over two decades, Mandakini made a quiet return recently in a music video, signaling a gentle comeback.
While the controversy around Ram Teri Ganga Maili may never fade entirely, Mandakini’s reflections offer a thoughtful reminder of the fine line between art and provocation—and how that line continues to shift with the times.
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