Mohali:- The royal palace of Ayodhya, where celebrations were to be held for the coronation of Lord Ram, stood in stark contrast to a decision that plunged the entire royal family into grief. The episode of Ram’s exile became deeply emotional when Ram, whose coronation everyone had been eagerly awaiting, prepared to leave the palace and go into exile to honour his father’s promise. The poignant scene was staged during the evening’s Ramleela organised by the Shri Ramleela and Dussehra Committee at the Ramleela and Dussehra Ground, Phase 1, Mohali.
On stage, Kaikeyi’s boons, King Dashrath’s helplessness and Lord Ram’s decision to go into exile gave the story an emotional turn. The enactment portrayed a father’s pain at being separated from his son, a son’s devotion to his father’s word, and Sita’s resolve to stand by her husband under all circumstances. By giving up royal comforts and grandeur and choosing the path to the forest, Lord Ram set an example of dignity and duty that is counted among the most moving episodes of the Ramayana.
Committee president Ashu Sood played King Dashrath, while Ritu portrayed Kaushalya, Madhu played Kaikeyi, Monica portrayed Sumitra and Sadhvi played Manthara. Prateek, as Lord Ram; Sandeep Rana, as Lakshman; and Shivani, as Mata Sita, brought the episode of exile to life through their performances. Raman played Sumantra, while Ayush portrayed Vashishtha. Other artists also made the performance impactful by portraying citizens and characters associated with the royal court.
The story of Ram’s exile is not merely one of sorrow for the royal family; it also conveys the values of sacrifice, obedience, love and dignity. Lord Ram’s calm acceptance of exile, Sita’s decision to accompany him and Lakshman’s devotion to his brother continue to teach people the importance of relationships and commitment to duty.
The Ramleela, organised under the leadership of Shri Ramleela and Dussehra Committee president Ashu Sood, aims to pass these episodes from the Ramayana on to the younger generation. The performances will continue until October 19, while the Vijayadashami celebration will be held on October 20. The committee has appealed to city residents to attend the Ramleela with their families and become part of this religious and cultural tradition.
