A 10-member delegation from the Shree Satsang Ramayan Mandali, led by Shri Prasad, will participate in the year-long ‘Connecting the World through Ramayana-2024’ celebration organised by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.

The Indian High Commission in Suva says the event marks a significant collaboration with the Shree Satsang Ramayan Mandali, highlighting the shared cultural ties between Fiji and India.

As part of the global initiative, the delegation is expected to contribute to the cultural exchange and celebration, fostering a deeper understanding of the Ramayana’s significance in connecting diverse communities across the world.

The group is scheduled to showcase a Ram Leela performance at two significant events – the ‘Rashtriya Ramayana Mela’ in Chitrakoot Dham and the ‘Ayodhya Ramotsav’ in Ayodhya, from the 7th to the 17th of March.

Indian High Commissioner to Fiji, Palaniswamy Karthigeyan acknowledged the privilege of facilitating the travel of the Sri Satsang Ramayan Mandali from Fiji to India and expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Ministry of Multi-ethnic Affairs.

Palaniswamy Karthigeyan-Indian High Commissioner to Fiji.

Head of the Shri Satsang Ramayan Mandli, Akhilesh Prasad expressed his pride in presenting Ramlila on the night of Shivratri in Ujjain, followed by a crucial performance in Chitrakoot Dham.

Akhilesh Prasad-Head-Shri Satsang Ramayan Mandli.

Prasad emphasised the declining interest in Ramlila among today’s youth but underscores the importance of involving them in performances as this will have a positive impact of these experiences in strengthening the connection between the younger generation and their culture.

As Shri Satsang Ramayan Mandli embarks on this enriching cultural journey, embracing initiatives such as Ramlila which holds the key to fortifying our connection with cultural traditions and nurturing a profound sense of pride and faith among the people.

This joint endeavour marks a joyous celebration of cultural unity and exchange between Fiji and India, showcasing the timeless significance of the Ramayana in connecting people together.

Story by Jacinta Lal