Ram Leela, a traditional form of storytelling originating in India, is a rich cultural tradition celebrated by Hindus the world over around Diwali time. Ram Leela involves putting up performances or skits depicting the popular Hindu epic Ramayana, showcasing a range of talents like acting, singing, dancing and more. The devotional storytelling format seeks to remind the audience of the Dushehra and Diwali story and the core teachings behind it.
Recently, a London-based diaspora organisation called Sutton Friends - a group of over 3,000 British Indian families from the Sutton area - recreated this age-old tradition at Tolworth Recreation Centre. The two-day cultural celebration of the Ramayana captivated audiences with performances that combined traditional storytelling with modern staging. The atmosphere was nothing short of electric, with the event drawing thousands from across London, either in person or through live streaming.
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Led by Praveen Kumar, the event saw community members join forces to bring their cultural heritage to London. A dedicated team of volunteers, including actors, makeup artists, costume designers, and backstage staff, ensured every scene ran smoothly, from lighting to costumes to set changes.
Ram Leela 2024 drew an impressive array of dignitaries who came out to support this vibrant display of culture. The audience included political figures such as Kuldeep Shekhawat, President of Overseas Friends of BJP UK (OFBJP UK) and Europe; Shashi Patel, Vice President and Treasurer of OFBJP UK; MPs Bobby Dean (Carshalton), Luke Taylor (Sutton), and Virendra Sharma (Southall); Parveen Rani, Deputy Mayor of Hertsmere; Shri Ram Ambarakar, First Secretary at the Indian High Commission in London; and Ajay Kumar Thakur, Attaché at the Indian High Commission. Their attendance highlighted the Ram Leela’s significance as a communal celebration of unity, tradition, and the Diwali spirit.
The performances unfolded in captivating sequences, moving the audience through key scenes of the Ramayana. Day one featured the vibrant ‘Narad Vivaah,’ the joyous birth of Lord Ram, and the grandeur of the Sita Swayamvar. Emotional intensity ran high with the dynamic portrayal of Dashrath and Kaikeyi, setting the tone for an epic tale. The second day shifted to darker, more intense scenes, including the dramatic ‘Ravan Darbar,’ Sita’s abduction, and the climactic battle between Lord Ram and Ravan. The performances kept the audience at the edge of their seats, blending classical and Bollywood-style dance, devotional music, and striking visual effects to bring the mythological tale vividly to life.
Reflecting on the event, Praveen Kumar, the Event Director, shared, “This year’s London Ram Leela is not just a theatrical show but a platform to connect communities, foster cultural understanding, and celebrate the spirit of Diwali. We are honoured to have dignitaries and members of Parliament joining us, reinforcing the shared values of unity and compassion.”
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As the dust settles on this year’s event, the success of London’s Ram Leela promises even more remarkable celebrations in the future. With its grand performances, diverse audience, and heartening community spirit, the 2024 Ram Leela has set a new standard for cultural festivals in the UK, enriching the lives of all who attended.
*Info: Sutton Friends