These 6 Indian Cities Are Famous For Ramlila: Indian Traditional Theatre

A dramatic folk recreation of Rama’s life based on the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana or literature based on it, such as the Ramcharitmanas, is known by the epithet Ramlila (Lord “Ram; Embodiment of Dharma” and the Sanskrit term “Leela” which means “play.”). During the Dussehra celebration, which is held every year in October according to the ceremonial calendar, it is commemorated throughout northern India. 

Indian Cities Which Are Famous For Ramlila

The Ramlila is a social gathering. By acting as an audience, taking on various roles, and setting the arrangements, people participate. The triumph of good over evil is the central subject of Ramlila, which is illustrated by Sri Ram and Ravana’s valiant conflict. 

1. Ramlila at Ramnagar, Varanasi

With the aid of Pandit Laxmi Narayan Pandey’s family (current Vyas Ji of the Ramlila of Ramnagar), Maharaja Udit Narayan Singh, Kashi Naresh established the tradition of hosting the Ramlila in Ramnagar, Varanasi, which is situated across the Ganges river from the Hindu pilgrimage city of Varanasi, in 1830. It gained popularity under the rule of his successor, Maharaj Ishwari Prasad Narayan Singh, and continued to enjoy the support of succeeding Maharajas of the Royal House of Benares. 

2. Ramlila at Aishbagh, Lucknow

The city of Nawabs is a spectacular showcase of diversity and culture. The Asaf-Ud-Dowlah-built Aishbagh is a well-known Ramlila celebration site. People from all over the city congregate to observe Shri Ramlila Samiti’s performances at this locale during the Navratri festival. During the Dussehra celebrations last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid a visit to the Aishbagh grounds.

3. The Hilly Ramlila of Almora, Uttrakhand

Almora gives you the chance to witness Ramlila away from the autumn breeze. The purest manifestation of musical art is this musical extravaganza. This shape was designed by Uday Shankar while he was a resident of the Uttarakhand town. This age-old art form is given a touch of sophistication by talented actors.

4. Satna Ramlila, Madhya Pradesh

Ramlila began in the city of Satna in 1897; this location has a 122-year history. Ramlila in Satna has a 122-year history. Beginning in 1897, it operated out of Bihari Chowk. Then, neither adequate resources nor local artists were available. Nevertheless, the scope grew with time. More than 100 congregations currently celebrate Ramadan at various locations throughout the area. The majority of the activities occur around Dussehra.

5. Delhi’s Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra

It is a renowned school for music, dance, and performing arts run by an Indian cultural institution. The atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind Ram Leela, which also contains English translation, is enhanced by special effects, costumes, and sets. 

6. Ram Leela Maidan in Delhi

This Ram Leela, which takes place at the Ram Leela Maidan outside Zakir Hussain College, is most likely the oldest in the city. Any political agitation should start in this area. The committee, however, is in charge during Navratri. Bahadur Shah, a Mughal emperor, started this Ram Leela almost 180 years ago. (As per Medium)

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Have you ever witnessed this traditional theatre?

Cover Image Courtesy: UNESCO