Ravi Kishan played Rama in Ramlila and spoke about battling depression through spirituality

In the city of Kashi, known as a center of religion and spirituality, a 483-year-old tradition, considered an example of harmony between Hindu and Muslim cultures (Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb) and interfaith unity, has been disrupted. During the Ramlila performances at the Laath Bhairav temple complex, verses from the Ramayana were recited simultaneously while representatives of the Muslim community performed the Maghrib prayer.

The joint observance of religious rituals by representatives of two faiths in the same complex has always been a unique feature of Kashi's communal harmony. However, this time, because members of the Muslim community did not appear to perform the prayer, members of the Ramlila organizing committee expressed disappointment and dissatisfaction.

Members of the Ramlila committee stated that the cessation of attendance by the Muslim community for prayer led to the breaking of a long-standing tradition. The committee perceived this as a boycott of Ramlila and expressed regret. They emphasized that this tradition was not merely limited to a religious event but also served as a message of brotherhood and interfaith unity across the country, and its violation brought them sorrow.

The chief figure of Ramlila, Vyas Dayashankar Tripathi, reported that he has been associated with this Ramlila since the age of six and served as the Mahant of Shri Laath Bhairav temple for 47 years. He also participated in roles such as Bharat, Lakshman, and Shatrugna in the Ramlila. According to Dayashankar Tripathi, this 483-year-old Ramlila is a symbol of Kashi's interfaith unity. The sight of Muslim community members performing prayers against the backdrop of Ramayana recitations represented an exceptional example of mutual respect. He expressed concern that the absence of Muslim community members this time might indicate a boycott of Ramlila, although independent confirmation of his concerns regarding any statements or directives from imams has not been received.

Speaking about the history of the Laath Bhairav temple complex, Dayashankar Tripathi noted that it is a very ancient place. According to him, after a legal case related to a dispute over the temple's territory, the temple side prevailed. In his assertion, the court's decision granted the Muslim community the right to perform prayers on the complex's premises on Eid and Bakrid days. He also mentioned the historical appearance of the temple, noting that, in his opinion, eight statues of Bhairav installed in eight 'khanas' around the temple were destroyed during the reign of Aurangzeb.

The simultaneous recitation of the Ramayana and prayer during the Laath Bhairav Ramlila has long been regarded as a symbol of Kashi's shared culture and religious tolerance. The non-attendance of Muslim community representatives for prayer caused disappointment among the members of the organizing committee. The committee believes that such traditions strengthen mutual trust, respect, and brotherhood in society.

Social media star and MP Ravi Kishan is preparing to play one of the most significant roles of his life—Shri Ram. He will appear in the Ramlila in Ayodhya, which will take place on October 19 and 20 at the Indian Constitutional Club. Other renowned actors such as Arun Bakshi and Raja Murad will also participate in the production.

This is the first time Ravi Kishan has portrayed the role of Lord Rama in the Ramlila. This moment is special for him, and he admitted to feeling some anxiety. In an interview with HT, the actor-MP shared his impressions of this experience. He stated that he has been honored to play Shri Ram.

He added: 'I pray that Lord Shri Ram enters me and gives me enough energy to perform this role honorably and well. I have previously played Parshuram and Kevat, and as a child, I portrayed Mother Sita, and I also played Lord Krishna in a television series. However, the role of Shri Ram is different from everything else. I have always wanted to play the role of Shri Ram.'

Ravi Kishan also discussed the responsibility associated with playing the role of Shri Ram. He noted that he feels internal unease. In his opinion, a small degree of fear is necessary for any artist on stage, as it helps them be more attentive to their work. When the role belongs to Lord Shri Ram, the responsibility for its correct execution increases even more. He constantly thinks about not making any mistake.

He emphasized: 'There is no room for mistakes in this role. You cannot change or add anything of your own accord; you must follow the written script and character. I have a lot of acting experience, but ultimately we are human, and anyone can make a mistake. I try to give 100% of myself. It is thanks to such efforts that my characters in the films Mirzapur: Film, The Law is Right, and Lost Ladies were successful.'

In conclusion, Ravi Kishan spoke about his long association with Ramayana. As the son of a priest, he heard many stories about Mahadeva and Shri Ram in his childhood. The actor noted that playing the role of Shri Ram is not just acting. He stated that the face should show calmness and meekness, and the behavior should demonstrate virtue, self-control, and concentration, as he plays the image of the supreme among men, Lord Shri Ram. Billions of people worldwide will see this role through live broadcasts on Doordarshan, OTT, and YouTube.

'The good news is that Navratri is currently ongoing, and I am observing a fast. This will allow me to perform this role with a pure body and a clear mind. I am a vegetarian and follow a special diet to look lean. Before the Ramlila, I will also shave my mustache. Furthermore, I try to remain calm to fully embody the image of Lord Shri Ram.' It should be noted that Kejiya Lidj Mejo, a contestant from Miss Universe India, will play the role of Mother Sita in the Ayodhya Ramlila.