Qualities that define Lord Rama’s character

Naina Mishra
Tribune News Service
Chandigarh, October 11

Children are always taught by their parents and guardians to idealise Lord Rama. It requires a set of qualities to become Rama not only in the real life but also on the stage.

Mukesh Sharma of the Garhwal Ramlila Mandal, Sector 28, here, says: “First of all, Rama should be a ‘satvik’. We don’t cast those who eat meat. The actor should be a vegetarian and a teetotaller to play the role of Rama. Besides, physical appearance also plays a major role as Rama has to face demon king Ravana. He should be good looking and have a good height. There should be a balance of height with Ravana as main protagonist Rama should look like a hero.”

Sharma said: “Looks are sometimes overlooked, but it is very important for the character to have a good inner self. This is the reason we don’t hire the cast from outside and keep people whom we know personally.”

Chitranjan Chanchal, director of Azaad Dramatic Club, said: “The personality of Rama should possess a poised personality. The artiste should have a polite voice and smiling face. Other attributes include height and fitness of the main character. We ensure that the artistes have undergone purification and nobody enters the Ramlila stage after consuming alcohol and meat.”

Taj Ali, who has been playing various roles in Ramlila for the past 18 years at Mani Majra and gives directions to participants of Ramlila, was never given the role of Rama considering the experience in the sphere. He said: “A lot depends upon the dialogue delivery and acting skills of the person who has to play the role of Rama. We can also play the roles of Rama, but we can’t compel the directors as the deserving candidate gets the chance to perform.”