During the Dipotsav festival in Ayodhya, lights will illuminate, and the plots of the Ramayana will be presented on stages where artists from various countries around the world will narrate the story of Lord Rama in their unique styles. This year's Dipotsav in Ayodhya will not be limited to just light and lamps; elements of other countries' cultures can be seen against the backdrop of Ramalila.
According to data from the Uttar Pradesh government, artists from five nations will perform at the tenth Dipotsav in Ayodhya. It is planned to invite artists from South Africa, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Laos, and Thailand. Furthermore, efforts are underway to attract artists from the Philippines and Russia. Thus, the story of Rama can be presented in Ayodhya not in one style, but in a diversity of arts and traditions from different nations.
Two teams from South Africa are proposed to participate in the Dipotsav. Artists from Sri Lanka, Nepal, Laos, and Thailand can also present their acts within the framework of Ramalila. The invitation of artists from the Philippines and Russia is not yet final.
The story of Rama is one, but the ways of narrating and staging it differ across various countries. Different states have their own versions of the Ramayana and traditions for its staging. For example, in Thailand, the Ramakien is known as 'Ramakien,' and its plots are demonstrated in the traditional dance-drama style of Khon.
Nepal also has deep cultural traditions associated with the Ramayana. Cultural performances related to the Ramakatha are also held in Sri Lanka, Laos, and South Africa. Therefore, when artists from these countries appear on the stages of Ayodhya, spectators will be able to see various cultural interpretations of the same story, reflecting the traditions of their countries in clothing, music, dance, and acting.
A total of 12 stages have been prepared for the Dipotsav. Approximately 2500 artists from India and foreign countries will perform on them. These 12 stages will consist of six small, four medium, and two large venues. This means that the performances will be distributed across different locations to provide opportunities for the largest number of artists to perform and for spectators to watch various programs.
The preparation for the Dipotsav in Ayodhya aims to give it an international flavor. Dipotsav is held annually in Ayodhya on a grand scale. In addition to lighting lamps, the Ramakatha and cultural events are an important part of this event. This time, it is planned to include artists from five countries. Currently, invitations are being extended to artists from South Africa, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Laos, and Thailand, while negotiations with the Philippines and Russia are ongoing.
