Romesh Mengi
The story of the Ramayana is not just about the triumph of good over evil, but also about values that shape human life, devotion, sacrifice, discipline, compassion, and above all, dharma. While Lord Rama is worshipped across the world as Maryada Purushottam, the embodiment of righteousness, his younger brother Lakshmana shines as a symbol of unmatched devotion and sacrifice. Together, their lives provide guiding lessons for generations.
Lakshmana’s greatness cannot be understated. Out of love for his brother, he left behind his palace and wife to spend fourteen years in exile with Lord Rama. He guarded the forest hut tirelessly, day and night, never once caring for his own rest. His respect for Sita Mata was such that he never looked at her face. When her ornaments were found scattered after her abduction, he could only identify her anklet because he had only ever looked at her feet. Such was his devotion, discipline, and sacrifice.
Yet, it is Lord Rama who is primarily worshipped. The reason lies in his balance of Maryada (righteous conduct) with compassion. He chose exile without hesitation, valuing his father’s word over his own kingship. He accepted Shabari’s half-eaten berries with love, recognizing her devotion rather than the outward act. Where Lakshmana reflects the highest devotion, Rama reflects the highest principle of dharma , choosing duty above self, compassion above pride, and righteousness above desire.
Reasi Ramleela: Keeping the Spirit Alive
These timeless lessons of Rama and Lakshmana come alive every year in Reasi during the grand staging of Ramleela. For over 130 years, the Shree Durga Natak Mandli Reasi has kept this tradition alive, making it one of the oldest Ramleela in North India. Established in 1890, Durga Natak Mandli has stood the test of time, carrying forward the vision of its founding members with the same zeal even today. The rehearsal of the Ramleela starts in Ram Bhawan Reasi and creates a spiritual atmosphere in the city, where devotion and festivity blend seamlessly. One of the most touching scenes enacted is when a dying Ravana, despite being the vanquished enemy, imparts wisdom to Lakshmana. It teaches that even in defeat, knowledge and humility must be honoured. Such scenes, combined with Rama’s life lessons, make the Reasi Ramleela not just an act of theatre but a living classroom of values.
More Than a Performance
The Ramlila of Reasi is not merely a festival, it is a cultural bridge across generations. Artists, volunteers, shopkeepers, students, and families come together, turning the event into a symbol of unity and social harmony. Despite television, cinema, and social media, the Ramlila continues to draw thousands, especially on Dussehra, when the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnath are set aflame which signify the eternal victory of truth over falsehood.
Lessons for the Younger Generation
In today’s fast paced digital world, children are more familiar with cartoons, video games, Facebook, Instagram than with India’s cultural heritage. Watching Ramleela offers them lessons in respecting parents, honouring promises, valuing relationships, and walking the path of righteousness. Lord Rama’s life inspires us to follow dharma, while Lakshmana’s devotion teaches us the essence of service and sacrifice.
A Living Heritage
As the city of Reasi gets soaked in the spiritual fervor of Navratras and Dussehra, the Ramleela stands as a proud reminder of our cultural roots. It is not just the retelling of an epic but the celebration of values that continue to guide humanity. Lord Rama is worshipped for his righteousness, Lakshmana revered for his devotion and together, their bond is what makes the Ramayana eternal.
Reasi Ramleela, in its grandeur and discipline, ensures that these timeless lessons will keep inspiring future generations.
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