With the onset of Navratri, Ramlila performances have begun across various locations in Nainital, drawing large crowds eager to witness episodes from the life of Lord Rama. However, a unique aspect sets the Sukhatal Ramlila in the lake city apart from the rest. On this stage, artists are recognized not by their religion, but entirely by the characters they portray, keeping alive a long-standing tradition of togetherness and shared heritage.
Anwar and Nasir Take on Major Roles
In this local Ramlila, Anwar Raza plays the boatman Kewat, ferrying Lord Rama across the river, while Nasir Ali appears as Guru Vashishtha, imparting archery and martial knowledge to Rama and Lakshmana. Additionally, Javed breathes life into crucial episodes such as the slaying of Tataka and the delusion of Narada with his compelling performances. The participation of these artists highlights a deep-rooted spirit of mutual brotherhood in the region.
Nasir Ali Has Dedicated 20 Years to the Tradition
Nasir Ali has been portraying various characters in the Sukhatal Ramlila for the past 20 years. Sometimes appearing as Maricha and at other times as Guru Vashishtha, he teaches martial arts to Lord Rama and Lakshmana on stage. For Nasir, who has been associated with the Ramlila for so many years, this is not merely an acting gig, but an activity that brings him joy and inner peace. He believes that on the stage, dedication to one's role matters far more than caste or religion, which is why he participates with great enthusiasm every single year.
Anwar as Kewat and the Anticipation for Javed's Acting
Anwar Raza has also been participating in the Sukhatal Ramlila for many years, frequently appearing in roles like Kewat and various sages. The episode of Kewat is tied to Lord Rama's exile, when the boatman helps him cross the river. When Anwar performs this scene on stage, the epic moment comes alive for the audience. Meanwhile, Javed remains another vital artist whose performances in sequences like the slaying of Tataka and the delusion of Narada are eagerly awaited by spectators, helping him carve out a distinct identity.
Art Transcends Religious Boundaries on Stage
The collaborative effort of people from different communities during the Ramlila in Nainital is hardly a new phenomenon. For years, members of the Muslim community have actively participated in acting and behind-the-scenes preparations alike. This collective participation demonstrates how cultural events serve to unite people rather than divide them. Through the timeless episodes from the life of Lord Rama, the artists of Sukhatal continue to convey powerful messages of justice, dignity, and societal harmony to the wider audience.
