Theatrical representation of lord Rama’s life takes place every year during the Navratri days as it has been indispensable part of the Dussehra and Navratri festivities. Artistes who play Ramleela are happy with the response they are receiving from the committees organising such plays based on the epic. “The number of such shows are increasing in the city, something that indicates their rising popularity,” said one of the artistes adding that the youths are playing the main roles. “This is a good thing that confirms that our culture would not die out,” said another of the artistes.
“ The dialogues and couplets are attracting the people and the story of lord Rama and Goddess Sita still evokes excitement. Viewers gathering in large numbers are seen every day at various grounds where Ramleela is held,” said a senior citizen from a locality of Dehradun.
A lot has changed in the body of the Ramleela play as orchestra, sound system and microphones are being added. But the soul of such plays remain undimmed. “However, they make the plays more exciting and lively. Also the new designs of costumes are adding to the grandeur of such shows. But the most important is the soul and happily that is alive and even thriving,” said Rohan, member of another committee based near Jhanda Bazar.
Preparation for it begins a month earlier, said Sandeep Dhaila member of the Parvatiya Ramleela Committee, Dehradun. Students from the localities take part in the Ramleela, he added.