The picturesque backdrop of Purana Qila (Old Fort) and Delhiites chanting Ram naam is how the vibe kicks in as one visits the ongoing seventh edition of the India International Ramayana Mela 2024.
City-based artists from all age groups have come together to paint a 30 feet long canvas here. “Scenes from the Ramayana are being depicted on this,” shares Karan Kushwaha, a fine arts student of Jamia Millia Islamia.
Many Delhiites are turning up to avail themselves of free workshops on Madhubani, Bhil, Gond and Warli art. Not just this, even yoga sessions and puppet and magic shows are piquing their interest. “Since the opening event of this year-long fest coincides with the establishment of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh), we were excited to come over and participate,” says Anita Sethi, a Delhi-based fashion design student.
Remi Poddar, a Noida-based artist, shares, “I’ve painted Surasa (the female demon in the Ramayana) because I wanted to convey the message that, just as Hanumanji overcomes all challenges with humility, we too can in our lives.”
{{/usCountry}}Remi Poddar, a Noida-based artist, shares, “I’ve painted Surasa (the female demon in the Ramayana) because I wanted to convey the message that, just as Hanumanji overcomes all challenges with humility, we too can in our lives.”
{{/usCountry}}“I’m playing Ram on stage, and feel it’s my good fortune to get to portray Him around this time when the whole world is experiencing the good vibes of the Ram Temple coming up in India,” says I Sajith, a Bharatnatyam dancer from Sri Lanka.
There are also free yoga sessions being conducted as part of this event. Yoga instructor, Meenakshi, says, “We look at yoga as it was practised in that yuga. As we breathe in, we inhale good energies and as we breathe out, we cleanse the negative energies inside us, which in a way represent Ravana.”
Catch It Live
What: India International Ramayana Mela 2024
Where: Purana Qila (Old Fort), Mathura Road
On till: January 21
Timing: 11.30am to 7pm
Nearest Metro Station: Supreme Court on the Blue Line