The Unsung Heroes of Lal Qila's Ramlila: Weaving Ancient Tales with Modern Dedication

As the vibrant hues of Dussehra illuminate the national capital, the grand stage at Red Fort's Lal Qila comes alive with the timeless saga of Ramlila. But beyond the dazzling costumes and dramatic performances lies a deeper narrative – that of ordinary individuals who transform into extraordinary characters, fueled by passion and an unwavering commitment to cultural heritage.

This year, the Shri Dharmik Leela Committee, one of Delhi's oldest and most revered Ramlila organizers, unveils its unsung heroes, whose daily lives as professionals intertwine with their profound roles in this epic.

Meet Vivek Narang, an accomplished art director by profession, who embodies the righteous Lord Ram.

His journey with Ramlila began at the tender age of 10, playing the innocent Luv, and has since seen him portray Lakshman, Bharat, and now, for the third consecutive year, the central figure of Ram. Narang's dedication is palpable; he fasts throughout Navratri, abstaining from non-vegetarian food, alcohol, and even onions and garlic, preparing himself spiritually for the divine role.

"It's a huge responsibility to play Ram," he shares, "You have to behave like Ram both on and off stage." His commitment extends beyond the nine days, influencing his lifestyle year-round.

Echoing this devotion is Bharat Aggarwal, a civil engineer by profession, who steps into the shoes of the venerable King Dashrath.

Like Narang, Aggarwal's association with Ramlila is generational, a legacy passed down through his family. He has graced the stage as Lakshman and Ram for many years, now bringing gravitas and wisdom to the role of Ram's father. "It's about 'seva' (service) for us," Aggarwal explains, highlighting the selfless spirit that drives their participation.

For these performers, their roles are not just about acting; they are a form of spiritual devotion and community service.

However, the path of bringing Ramlila to life is not without its challenges. The Shri Dharmik Leela Committee, which predates India's independence, navigates the complexities of staging a massive production within the bustling heart of Delhi.

From securing permissions in a high-security zone like the Red Fort to managing escalating costs of sets, costumes, and security, the organizers face a constant uphill battle. President of the Committee, Suman Kumar Gupta, candidly admits the financial strain. "Each year, we try to put up a better show," he states, "but the costs keep increasing." What was once a budget of a few lakhs has now soared into crores, primarily relying on donations and sponsorships.

Despite these hurdles, the spirit of Ramlila endures, largely due to the selfless contribution of its participants.

The actors, many of whom are professionals like Narang and Aggarwal, dedicate countless hours to rehearsals and performances, often taking time off from their regular jobs without financial compensation. Their reward lies in the collective joy of the audience and the preservation of a cherished cultural tradition.

The stage at Lal Qila transforms not just into Ayodhya or Lanka, but into a powerful symbol of faith, community, and the enduring human spirit.

As the final scene unfolds and the effigy of Ravana burns bright against the Delhi sky, it's not just the tale of good triumphing over evil that resonates.

It's the silent testament to the dedication of individuals like Vivek Narang and Bharat Aggarwal, who, with every dialogue and every gesture, breathe life into an ancient epic, ensuring its magic continues to captivate generations at the iconic Red Fort.