Festive spirit: Lav Kush Ramlila set to enthral audience with new themes

The days when the national capital dazzles with lights, echoes with chants of “Jai Shri Ram,” and bustles with the energy of festive melas are back. Alongside Durga Puja pandals and Diwali markets, Delhi’s much-awaited Ramlila season once again promises to enthral lakhs of visitors — and topping the list is the grand Lav Kush Ramlila at Red Fort grounds.

This year, the Lav Kush Ramlila Committee is going bigger than ever, blending devotion with spectacle while dedicating the production to the Indian armed forces. “This year’s Ramlila is dedicated to the courage and sacrifices of the Army, Navy and Air Force. It will inspire a spirit of unity, brotherhood and patriotism across the country,” Arjun Kumar, president of the organising committee said. The tribute is inspired by recent incidents in Poonch and “Operation Sindoor,” with more than five lakh invitation cards being distributed across Delhi-NCR, each highlighting the bravery of soldiers.

A standout attraction this year is the stage — a three-storey replica of the Somnath Temple crafted by artisans and technical teams from Gujarat, Kashi, Rajasthan and Mathura-Vrindavan.

“Using 3D effects and AI technology, certain scenes are designed to make viewers feel as if they are seated inside the temple, witnessing Lord Ram’s leelas firsthand,” Kumar said.

The casting this year blends Bollywood, television and music industry talent. Actor Arya Babbar will take on the role of Ravana, while MP-singer Manoj Tiwari portrays Lord Parshuram. Kinshuk Vaidya, once the beloved child actor of Shaka Laka Boom Boom, will essay Lord Ram, alongside Riney Arya as Sita. Veteran TV actor Rajesh Puri will appear as Narad, while singer Shankar Sahney steps into the role of Kevat. In one of the most talked-about announcements, actress Poonam Pandey joins the ensemble as Mandodari, Ravana’s wife. The organisers defended the casting, calling it both a recognition of her acting ability and a step towards highlighting women’s empowerment.

Beyond performance, the Ramlila will also host a series of social initiatives: a mega health camp, a community feast, and the distribution of school bags, stationery, saris, motorised tricycles and wheelchairs to people with disabilities.

Adding to the devotional fervour, bhajans by renowned singers will accompany the staging. On September 21, audiences will also witness a special play depicting the childhood of Lord Krishna, before the main Ramlila begins on September 22.

The committee insists that the Ramlila is as much about values as it is about drama. “Through the story of Lord Ram, we teach children about sacrifice, family unity and devotion,” Kumar said, citing examples like Bharat giving up the throne for 14 years and Sita accompanying Ram into exile.

To manage the large crowds, nearly 100 commandos and volunteers will be deployed, with an equal number of CCTV cameras ensuring security.