This year marks the 67th edition of the remarkable production by Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra, led by Shobha Deepak Singh, who serves as the director and vice chairperson. This extraordinary spectacle unfolds the epic Ramayana in a unique manner, spanning 28 scenes and seamlessly weaving together various forms of Indian classical music, folk dances, martial arts, and acrobatics. In a captivating duration of 2 hours and 40 minutes, the production brings to life pivotal episodes from the Ramayana, commencing with Lord Ram’s birth, his union with Sita, their exile, the triumph over Ravana, and Sita’s agni pareeksha through a multitude of performances.
Shobha Deepak Singh has underlined that, as is customary, the show has evolved and embraced fresh elements. Notable enhancements include updated costumes, jewelry, and music. Furthermore, the script incorporates new scenes that shine a spotlight on the female characters, offering a broader perspective on the narrative. The introduction of a variety of new costumes and the re-recording of the entire music track are among the notable changes made this year.
Discussing the significance of women’s empowerment, Shobha Deepak Singh, Padma Shri awardee, emphasized the central role of female characters in this year’s production. She mentioned that they have delved deeper into the characters of Sita and Ahalya, bringing more complexity and depth to their portrayals. Notably, a new sequence has been introduced this year, focusing on Sita’s agni pareeksha, which was absent in the previous rendition. The story of Ahalya is also given prominence, reflecting the belief that it deserves to be included. Furthermore, Shobha Deepak Singh expressed her commitment to expanding and enriching these narratives in the coming years.
She underscored the importance of introducing the younger generation to their cultural heritage, considering the production as a legacy to be cherished. In a discussion about the demanding nature of certain job roles for married women, Shobha Deepak Singh conveyed her personal experience and the crucial support she receives from her husband. She passionately shared her message to all married women, encouraging them not to fear pursuing their aspirations. Her advice was simple yet powerful: break free from any constraints or limitations, and embrace life with unwavering self-assurance, living it on your own terms. She emphasized the importance of self-belief and the capacity to chart one’s own path, inspiring married women to pursue their professional goals with confidence.