Ramleela Finale Lights Up Pierre Road Recreational Grounds
Thousands converged at the Pierre Road Recreational Ground in Chaguanas on Sunday night to witness the dramatic finale of Ramleela.
Arguably one of the most anticipated of the 10-night open-air dramatic presentations, the community once again came alive for the re-enactment of the victory of Lord Rama over demon king and antagonist Ravan, as told through the epic poem the Ramayana.
As the effigy of the demon king loomed menacingly several feet above the massive crowd, performers and onlookers participated in prayer, all in preparation for the evening’s celebrations.
Member of Parliament for Chaguanas West, Dr. Colin Neil Gosine, attended the festivities and spoke on the significance of the celebrations in uplifting the spirit and strength of the community while passing the traditions to the next generation.
« For generations this great drama has reminded us of the eternal values embodied by Lord Rama: truth, duty, compassion and righteousness. Each evening’s performance is more than theatre in a divine offering that uplifts the spirit, strengthens our community and passes on to our children the lesson of devotion, and discipline and unity. »
Also attending the evening’s celebrations were the Mayor of Chaguanas, Faaiq Mohammed, and the Minister of Public Utilities, Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Couva South, Barry Padarath, who reminded the crowd that despite life’s inevitable low periods, there is hope through the divine.
« Let us hear you say with me, Jai Shri Ram, Jai Shri Ram, Jai Shri Ram. »
The audience was enraptured as the performers, embodying the well-known characters, were embroiled in the intense battle of good and evil.
In his final act, Lord Rama, planting his feet and arching his bow, sent a sizzling arrow toward the effigy of Ravan, engulfing him in flames. The evil Ravan is defeated, and good prevails.
Celebrations erupted with cheers and tassa.
TTT News spoke to film student Leonov Norbert who said Ramleela is more than just a story personified – it is an opportunity for communities to work together, an opportunity for spiritual enlightenment and cultural continuity.
« Products like these, where it’s more of a service, where it’s a cultural service, it could be used to strengthen the bonds in the country, especially to help grow the culture because something we don’t want is for other cultures to take over, and you know people say we’ve become like the West, or like America, or any other country. What we really want is for our own culture to grow and so, while it might not be the most profitable product in the world, I would say growing something like this is good for our country. »
Ramleela traditionally takes place annually weeks before the grand celebration of Divali.
