The spiritual splendor of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir and its grand celebrations under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership are now echoing across continents. On February 20, Moscow will host a magnificent Ram Leela, inspired by the divine Deepotsav festivities in the holy city.
This event marks a new milestone in India-Russia cultural ties. Organized with support from the Indian Embassy in Russia and the Jawaharlal Nehru Cultural Centre (JNCC), the performance will feature Russian artists in key roles. Evgeniy will portray Lord Ram, Daria as Sita, Murat as Lakshman, and Dimitri as Hanuman, bringing India’s timeless epic to life on a foreign stage.
Leading the initiative is the Russo-Indian Friendship Society ‘Disha’, under Dr. Rakeshwar Singh. For years, this group has bridged cultures through theater, festivals, and educational programs. ‘Ram Leela transcends religion; it’s a universal message of truth, honor, and righteous living,’ Singh emphasized, noting the keen interest among Russian audiences.
Ayodhya’s Deepotsav has evolved into a global spectacle since Yogi Adityanath took helm in Uttar Pradesh. Millions of lamps illuminating the city have captivated international artists and organizations. Russian performers, who previously graced Ayodhya’s stages, were so moved by the grandeur that they decided to recreate the magic in Moscow.
Historical precedents add depth to this exchange. In the 1960s, Soviet actor Padma Shri Gennady Mikhailovich Pechnikov staged Ram Leela in Moscow, forging emotional bonds between the nations. Today’s event, backed by Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar, continues that legacy.
Preparations are in full swing with elaborate stage setups, traditional costumes, and authentic music. Russian citizens, the Indian diaspora, and cultural luminaries will attend, immersing in the devotion and ideals of Indian heritage. This Ram Leela promises to strengthen unity, proving culture’s power to unite hearts across borders.