5 Countries Beyond India Where The Ramayana Has A Life Of Its Own

With Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana, starring Ranbir Kapoor, released today, the Indian epic is once again in the spotlight. But the story of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Ravana has travelled far beyond India, finding a place in the folklore, performing arts and cultural traditions of several Asian countries. From Thailand’s masked dance dramas to Indonesia’s shadow puppetry, here are five places where the Ramayana continues to be celebrated in unique ways. Here are five places across Asia where the Ramayana continues to be celebrated in unique ways.

5 Places Across Asia Where The Ramayana Is Celebrated In Unique Ways

1. Thailand

Thailand has its own traditional version of the Ramayana, known as Ramakien, which is regarded as the country’s national epic. The story has been adapted to reflect Thai traditions, with characters and settings taking on local identities. One of the most recognisable places to explore this legacy is Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, where lavish murals depict scenes from the epic. Thailand also celebrates the story through Khon, a traditional masked dance-drama featuring performers in elaborate costumes.

2. Cambodia

In Cambodia, the Ramayana is known as Reamker, or the Glory of Rama. This Khmer adaptation has a few distinctive episodes, including the popular encounter between Hanuman and Sovann Maccha, a mermaid. The epic is portrayed in temple artwork, including the carvings at Angkor Wat, and continues to impact traditional Cambodian performing arts. Its stories are also presented through masked dance dramas and shadow-puppet theatre, making it an important part of the country’s cultural heritage.

3. Indonesia

Despite being the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, Indonesia has preserved a strong Ramayana tradition. In Java, the epic is known through the Kakawin Ramayana and is retold through Wayang Kulit, a traditional shadow-puppet performance. Travellers visiting Yogyakarta can also witness the spectacular Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan Temple. The performances bring the story to life through dance, music and elaborate costumes against the backdrop of the historic temple complex.

Also Read: All Work Complete At Ayodhya’s Ram Temple; From Jatayu Statue To Tulsidas Chamber, 10 New Highlights For Devotees

4. Laos

In Laos, the Ramayana is known as Phra Lak Phra Ram, named after the brothers Lakshmana and Rama. The story is considered a national epic and has been adapted through Buddhist traditions. Rama is viewed as a previous incarnation of Gautama Buddha, while the story’s setting draws on the landscape of the Mekong River. The epic has generally been performed through dance and recitations, and the Royal Ballet Theatre of Luang Prabang has helped revive its performance tradition.

5. Myanmar

Myanmar’s version of the Ramayana is called Yama Zatdaw, with Rama known as Yama and Sita as Thida. The story has strong connections with Buddhist traditions and has been performed through classical dance, theatre and marionette shows. Its distinctive Burmese interpretation features ornate costumes and stylised movements. Scenes from the epic can also be found in traditional artwork, including stone reliefs, lacquerware and wood carvings.

Also Read: Visit Ayodhya, Kashi, Rameswaram & More With IRCTC’s New Tourist Package; Check Cost, Date & More

Are you excited to watch Ramayana in theatres?

Cover Image Courtesy: Prime Focus Studios

Tanvi Shrivastava | Sub-Editor

Tanvi Nalin Shrivastava is a Sub-Editor at Curly Tales with 5 years of experience in digital journalism and content creation, with expertise spanning beauty, food, travel, fashion and entertainment. She holds a Master’s degree in Communication and Journalism from the University of Mumbai. When she’s not working, you’ll probably find her reading, talking to the camera or just binge-watching rom-coms.