The tricity witnessed a cultural milestone this week as the first-ever all-women Ramlila took center stage at the Indradhanush Auditorium, Sector 5, Panchkula.

Organized by NGO Jadon se Judoo in collaboration with the Reeshan Foundation, the grand production has been running since September 23, drawing audiences with powerful performances and a refreshing new take on the Ramayan epic.

Over 80 Women Bring the Ramayan Alive

More than 80 women performers, including homemakers, students, and professionals, are part of this landmark production. The cast ranges from the youngest performer—a six-month-old baby playing newborn Lord Ram—to the oldest, 83-year-old Pushpa, portraying Rajmata.

Key roles are performed by:

• Abha Shukla as Ram

• Pallavi as Lakshman

• Janvi Nagpal as Hanuman

• Ruchita Garg as Ravan

Each evening, the 1,500-seat auditorium echoes with chants of “Jai Shri Ram” as audiences experience the epic with renewed energy and precision.

A Theatrical Shift from Tradition

Traditionally staged outdoors in mela-style settings, this Ramlila was moved indoors by director Shyam Jaitley, who has been directing plays since 1976.

“Outdoors, people come and go. In a theatre, the audience stays focused till the end and experiences the story deeply,” Jaitley explained.

To meet the demands of the larger stage, the team upgraded to:

• Seven digital screens

• A massive backdrop

• Surround sound effects

• Synchronized lip-sync with male voice-overs

Performers trained for two months to perfect gestures, timing, and stage presence. “For years, men played women’s roles. Why can’t women portray warriors and kings? If women can serve in the army, they can lead on stage too,” Jaitley added.

Growing Audience and Cultural Impact

The response from the audience has been overwhelming. While the opening day saw a modest turnout, by the third evening the show achieved a full house.

• Dhruv, a regular spectator from Zirakpur, shared: “I have been attending women’s Ramlila since 2023. Now I come daily to watch this performance.”

• Roshni, another viewer, said: “The performance was so powerful that I now want to be part of this Ramlila myself.”

Families attending the theatre for the first time praised the safe environment, disciplined setup, and inspiring performances. “Indoors, the experience feels more respectful, and children stay engaged throughout,” said Rohit, a Panchkula resident.

A Landmark in Women-Led Theatre

Organisers confirmed that several traditional Ramlila committees have praised this move to the auditorium, with some now considering similar productions for next year.

The success of this indoor, all-women Ramlila has not only broken stereotypes but also set a new benchmark for cultural theatre in North India.