The annual Delhi tradition of the Luv Kush Ramlila at Red Fort is gearing up for another grand edition, well ahead of the festive season. The star-studded production remains one of the highlights of Dussehra celebrations, bringing together television actors for a 10-day showcase of the country’s biggest Ramlila.
Devesh Sharma (L), Kaveri Priyam (R )
Actors reflect on their rolesGiving audiences a glimpse of the performance, actor Devesh Sharma, who plays Lord Ram, recited a few lines from an interaction between Ram and Lakshman. He later reflected on the values he has drawn from portraying the character, saying that Ram’s greatest lesson lies in respectful dialogue despite differences. “Today, every household has different generations living together, so disagreements are natural. Having different opinions is not wrong, but expressing them with respect is what truly matters. Young people, including me, can confidently put forward our views, but they should always be rooted in respect,” he said.For Kaveri Priyam, who essays the role of Sita, the production marks her first mythological project. Speaking about stepping into the iconic role, she said she sees it as both a challenge and a learning experience. “I’ve played a diverse range of characters, but this is my first mythological role. I’m grateful for this opportunity and platform. I know it won’t be easy and that it will challenge me, but I’m looking forward to learning from my fellow actors. I hope I can do justice to the image of Maa Sita that people hold in their hearts,” she said.
Pankaj Kamad (L), Mohit Tyagi (R )
Pankaj Kamad, who portrays Hanuman, described the role as the fulfilment of a childhood dream and recalled working with Sharma on an earlier television show. “I’ve wanted to play Hanuman since childhood. Earlier, I portrayed him in a television serial where Devesh played Lakshman. But I always looked at him through Hanuman’s eyes, as Ram. We developed a great bond during that show,” he said.Technology meets traditionAlongside the performances, organisers are introducing new technology to make the spectacle more immersive. Arjun Kumar, president of the Luv Kush Ramlila Committee, said this year’s edition will blend practical effects with AI-powered visuals to appeal to younger audiences. “The stage, which used to be three storeys high, has now been expanded to four levels. Behind the stage, a replica of Meenakshi Temple, Madurai will be built. We’re using AI-assisted graphics, 3D mapping, and sound effects, and work on the visuals has already begun. Hanuman will appear flying nearly 200 feet in the air with Ram and Lakshman on his shoulders using cranes. These practical sequences will be enhanced with AI and displayed on LED screens as well. With improvements in light, sound and visuals, we’re creating a hyper realistic Ramlila. Our aim is to connect with today’s youth in a language they understand while introducing them to the lessons of the Ramayana,” he said.This year, the organisers hope the larger stage, enhanced visual effects and social media engagement will help keep the centuries-old tradition relevant for a new generation of audiences.
(L-R) Pawan Gupta, chairman, Arjun Kumar, president, Subhash Goyal, general secretary of the Luv Kush Ramlila Committee
