Ramlila staged in Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia and the Caribbean as well as India
Beyond India, the Ramayana is performed in dance and drama in several countries, from Indonesia and Thailand to Trinidad and Tobago and Guyana.
Ramlila is staged across India during Shardiya Navratri and ends with the burning of Ravana's effigy on Dussehra. It is held in many parts of the country, drawing large crowds. But Ramlila is also presented in several other countries, where people celebrate it with joy.
In Indonesia, dance and drama productions based on the Ramayana are staged in Java and Bali. Few people may know that Ramlila is held in Indonesia too. It is a Muslim-majority country, yet the Ramayana is deeply woven into its culture. Lord Ram is seen there not as the symbol of any one religion but of human ideals. In Java and Bali, Ramlila is presented through graceful dance and theatre.
The influence of the Ramayana is also deep in Thai culture. There it is known as the "Ramakien", which is also the country's national epic. Episodes from the Ramayana are presented beautifully to the rhythm of dance and music. Performers wear a special mask called the "khon" when presenting the Ramayana.
Cambodia's history is considered to be linked to Hindu culture. There the Ramayana is known as the "Reamker", and the tradition is well known. Scenes from the Ramayana are staged with great beauty at temples and historic sites. Performers present Ramlila in fine costumes and jewellery.
In Trinidad and Tobago and in Guyana, communities of Indian origin have preserved the Ramlila tradition. According to history, indentured labourers were sent from India to these countries in the 19th century, during British rule, to work on sugarcane plantations. They carried their culture with them. They staged Ramlila in those countries, and it has been popular there ever since.
