Deepotsav 2025: International Ramlila in Ayodhya; symphony of world cultures

The ninth edition of Deepotsav marks a historic celebration—an International Ramlila featuring artistes from Russia, Thailand, Indonesia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. This grand confluence of cultures reaffirms Ayodhya’s emergence as a global centre of spiritual and cultural tourism.

As the sacred city of Ayodhya gears up for the Deepotsav 2025 festival, the Saryu River is set to glimmer with a million lamps—each flame whispering the tale of Lord Ram’s eternal dharma. Ayodhya will transform into a celestial amphitheatre where people unite in devotion, and the Ramayana speaks in many languages but a single spirit.

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A total of 90 international artistes will breathe life into the epic of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram, blending their native art forms with India’s timeless heritage.

From Russia, 15 artistes will stage the Swayamvara of Ram and Sita, merging traditional Russian theatrical elegance with Indian mythic grace. From Thailand, 10 performers will enact the dramatic encounters of Shurpanakha, Maricha, and the climactic Ram–Ravana battle, using their signature classical dance-drama style.

Representing Indonesia, 10 artistes will present the burning of Lanka and Ram’s return to Ayodhya, portraying the triumph of virtue in a visually enthralling manner. From Nepal, 33 artistes will depict Laxman’s display of valour, offering a fresh perspective beyond Sita-centric narratives and deepening Indo-Nepal cultural ties.

From Sri Lanka, 22 performers, including two already in Ayodhya, will stage Ravaneshwara on Rameshwar soil, reflecting the island’s enduring reverence for Ravana as a divine being.

According to Ashutosh Dwivedi, Advisor and Special Officer of the Ayodhya International Ramayana and Vedic Research Institute, the international Ramlila will be held from October 17 to 20. Its aim, he said, is not only to preserve the sacred tradition of Ramlila but also to showcase global cultural harmony rooted in Indian values.

Amid the radiance of 56 ghats and temples illuminated by millions of diyas, the performances will offer an unforgettable spectacle—where devotion, art, and unity merge. Traditional costumes, intricate set designs, and the resonance of global voices retelling India’s eternal epic will make Deepotsav 2025 a moment of living heritage—one that celebrates Ayodhya as the soul of a luminous, culturally united world.