Why Ramleela still matters: A living tradition bridging culture, morality and unity

As fireworks light up the sky and the effigy of Ravana burns once again, Ramleela reminds us: goodness is not outdated, and cultural traditions are not optional, they are essential.

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Gear up for Ramleela 2025
Gear up for Ramleela 2025

Greater Noida: As the curtain rises and chants of Jai Shri Ram echo through the night, the vibrant scenes of Ramleela unfold once again in towns and cities across India. For generations, this grand depiction of Lord Ram’s journey—from exile to the epic battle against Ravana, has been more than just a theatrical performance. In today’s fast-paced, digital, and often divided world, Ramleela stands as a vital reminder of cultural heritage, moral values, and collective identity.

Shri Ramleela Committee, Greater Noida begins preparations

Recognizing the importance of continuing this legacy, Shri Ramleela Committee Greater Noida held a planning meeting on August 5 at Lakshmi Timber, Site 4, to kick off preparations for Vijay Mahotsav 2025. The meeting was presided over by S. Manjeet Singh, who informed attendees that the committee has begun organising all necessary arrangements for this year’s festivities. Responsibilities were distributed among members to ensure the smooth execution of the event.

General Secretary Bijendra Singh Arya shared that the grand Ramleela will commence from September 23, 2025, and will be accompanied by a vibrant fair. The event will feature food stalls, amusement rides, and cultural attractions to engage people of all ages, making it not only spiritually enriching but also socially vibrant.

Attendees of the meeting included Manjeet Singh, Bijendra Singh Arya, Saurabh Bansal, Harendra Bhati, Kuldeep Sharma, K.K. Sharma, Kamal Singh Arya, Engineer Shyamveer Bhati, Gajendra Singh, Mukul Goyal, Anil Kasana, Manoj Yadav, Anuj Upadhyay, Ajay Rampur, and Vishal Jain, among others—signifying the collective dedication to preserving and enriching this timeless tradition.

A living epic in a changing world

Ramleela, the dramatic retelling of the Ramayana, is traditionally performed during the days leading up to Dussehra. While it has always been a cherished part of Indian tradition, its relevance has evolved with time. In the age of smartphones, social media, and AI, where attention spans are fleeting and values often questioned, Ramleela serves as a grounding force—offering a space where communities pause to reflect on righteousness, humility, and the triumph of good over evil.

Teaching morals, Not just mythology

Each act of Ramleela carries timeless lessons. Ram’s unwavering commitment to truth, Sita’s strength in adversity, Lakshman’s loyalty, and Hanuman’s devotion serve as character-building examples. At a time when children and even adults grapple with identity, ethics, and choices, Ramleela becomes a classroom under the open sky—teaching not just mythology, but morality.

Community, Connection, and Cultural Pride

Perhaps what makes Ramleela especially important today is its power to bring people together. In a world often divided along political, religious, or social lines, these performances dissolve barriers. People from different walks of life gather as one audience, volunteers come together to build sets, sew costumes, and rehearse tirelessly, all for the joy of storytelling and tradition.

A Mirror to Society

Modern adaptations of Ramleela are also integrating contemporary themes, women’s empowerment, environmental awareness, and commentary on modern challenges, making it a mirror to today’s society while anchored in ancient wisdom. This blend of tradition and relevance makes Ramleela not just a performance, but a conversation.

Conclusion: More Than a Festival Performance

Ramleela today is not just about celebrating a festival or reenacting a mythological tale. It’s about keeping a collective conscience alive. The efforts of local groups like Shri Ramleela Committee Greater Noida highlight how this tradition continues to evolve, inspire, and unite.

As fireworks light up the sky and the effigy of Ravana burns once again, Ramleela reminds us: goodness is not outdated, and cultural traditions are not optional, they are essential.

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