New Delhi, October 14th, 2024: Ramleela is being organized at various places in Delhi. Each Ramleela offers a unique experience. However, Dwarka’s Ramleela will captivate your heart, where every divine character is being portrayed by children. There’s a rush among children to play the roles of Shri Ram and Sita, and to make the Ramleela more vibrant every day.
Here, Lord Ram, Sita, and Hanuman are portrayed by children in their innocent and vibrant forms. The roles of Shri Ram, Sita, and Hanuman change two to three times a day, with different children playing the same chapter.
Harshit Mishra, a 13-year-old student of class 8, said, “I like Shri Ramji a lot, that’s why I’m playing His role.” Harshit added, “I want everyone to be good and never lie, because if you lie, wrong will happen to you too.”
Akshat, who plays Lakshman, said, “I feel great playing Lakshman’s role. I’ve learned that we should respect everyone and listen to our elders.”
Preetima Khandelwal, President of Bal Utsav Ramleela Committee, Dwarka Sector-13, said, “4,288 students from 46 schools in Delhi-NCR are participating in the Ramleela. Four schools are performing Sita Swayamvar, and three schools are performing Lanka Dahan. The chapters are distributed among schools, and children practice in school before performing on stage.”
Some children have memorized the Ramayana dialogues so well that they deliver them confidently on stage without any help, while others use recorded dialogues.
This Bal Ramleela started in 2017 with just three schools and 100 children performing for three days. The overwhelming response led to its annual organization. This year, over 40 schools are participating.
Harish Kocher, General Secretary of Bal Utsav Ramleela Committee, said, “Parents and teachers are thrilled to see children showcase their acting talent beyond academics. This Ramleela helps children understand the difference between good and evil.”
Anushree, associated with Bal Utsav Ramleela, said, “This Ramleela is unique, with two to three schools presenting new chapters every day.”
First-ever Ramleela in Sindhi Language
In a unique effort, a school from Lajpat Nagar presented Ramleela in Sindhi language for the first time. Lalit Bijlani, Vice President of Bal Utsav Ramleela Committee, said, “We’ve tried to showcase India’s rich cultural diversity through this performance. We’re proud to see these young children present an enchanting Ramleela for 10 days.”
A.M. Kumar, a regular visitor to the Ramleela, said, “I prefer this Bal Ramleela because it’s performed by school children, some as young as 5-6 years old. Other Ramleelas feature commercial and theater artists, but this one is heartwarming. It’s also instilling Indian values in children, which is commendable.”