The 67th edition of the legendary ‘SHRI RAM’ by Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra was flagged off by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on October 15th, 2023 in New Delhi. The two-and-a-half-hour-long presentation will be held daily at 6.30pm to 9.15pm at the open air Kendra Lawns, # 1, Copernicus Marg, New Delhi until November 5th, 2023.
‘SHRI RAM’ is a vibrant and mesmerizing spectacle that brings to life the epic Ramayana through dance, music, and drama. Oldest in the realm, the production has evolved into a cultural institution, revered for its aesthetic brilliance, emotional depth, and timeless moral values for seven decades. Witnessed by countless dignitaries, including Presidents and Prime Ministers, ‘SHRI RAM’ is created with a diverse range of Indian classical and traditional dance styles and martial arts including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kalariyapattu, Mayurbhanj Chau, and folk dances of North India, accompanied by rhythmic music based on Hindustani classical ragas.
Under the spirited artistry of director Shobha Deepak Singh, the production has evolved during the last thirty years into a rich and splendorous show of dances and martial techniques, changing stage designs and lighting, colourful costumes, headgears and jewellery and varied make-up styles and masks that successfully bring alive the epic. A notable feature of this annual show is the constant effort to experiment with new technology to keep pace with the times and the changing tastes of the new generations. The show has further been enriched with the LED Wall displaying stunning scenes and animated visuals in the background, lending a 3D effect to the sets.
Conceived and choreographed by Shobha Deepak Singh herself, ‘SHRI RAM’ is a legacy that she has held high for decades together. Commenting on the 67th chapter of the production Shobhaji said, “SHRI RAM is my life’s calling. It is the embodiment of everything that I hold dear: my culture, my faith, and my commitment to art. For over six decades, I have dedicated myself to sharing the timeless story of Ramayana with the world through dance, music, and drama. SHRI RAM has taught me the true meaning of love, courage, and perseverance, and I am grateful for the opportunity to live my life by its principles, the same that I try to bring forth to generations that have viewed SHRI RAM.”
Shobha ji further added, “Dance imparts moral values and life lessons. I expect the younger generation to respect our endeavors and perpetuate the tradition with integrity and zeal. This is a baton I have been passed on by my mother and have lifted upon my shoulders with pride.”
‘SHRI RAM’ is not just an entertainer. It is an excellent assortment of moral values, teachings, beliefs and emotions put together to bring out a bigger picture pertinent to the modern era. The setting and age from Satyug to Kalyug have changed considerably, but the challenges and struggles still exist. Their circumstances, however different, their essence and nature are still the same. Through the minute nuances of Lord Ram’s life and His obedience towards His father, Sita’s love in face of adversity and Hanuman’s daring efforts in bringing the Sanjeevani Booti, the show emphasizes on human values, brotherhood, unconditional love and respect for elders.
