The Luv Kush Ramlila Committee, one of Delhi's oldest and most renowned Ramlila organizers, is gearing up for a spectacular staging of the Ramayana at the historic Red Fort grounds from September 22 to October 3, 2025, with the grand Dussehra celebration scheduled for October 2. This year's edition promises to be a unique blend of tradition and technology, featuring Bollywood stars, AI-driven elements, 3D mapping, and an advanced sound system to captivate an estimated global audience of over 250 million viewers across more than 150 TV channels and online platforms.
In a surprising casting choice, actress Poonam Pandey will portray Mandodari, the queen of Lanka and wife of Ravana, while actor Arya Babbar will take on the role of the demon king himself. This casting decision has added a dash of glamour to the traditional Ramlila, generating considerable buzz and anticipation among audiences.
Poonam Pandey expressed her excitement and pride in being part of such a historic and grand event. In a letter to the Luv Kush Ramlila Committee, she stated that she considers it a matter of great joy and pride to have the opportunity to participate in this historic event, emphasizing that Ramlila is not just a religious event but a celebration of culture and tradition.
Arya Babbar is no stranger to the character of Ravana, having previously played the role in the television show "Sankat Mochan Mahabali Hanuman" in 2015. He had expressed his fascination with Ravana, considering him to be the most colorful character ever created, with every human emotion well depicted in his life. It will be interesting to see how both Poonam and Arya bring their own interpretations to these significant mythological characters.
Alongside Poonam Pandey and Arya Babbar, Kinshuk Vaidya will enact the role of Lord Rama, Rini Arya will portray Sita, and Malhar Pandya will embody the mighty Hanuman. Kinshuk Vaidya considers it a privilege to play Lord Rama at the Red Fort, one of India's most historic venues. Rini Arya acknowledged the challenge of portraying Sita but is preparing for the role with dedication. Malhar Pandya, a devotee of Lord Hanuman, feels it is an honor to perform as the powerful Pawan Putra live before thousands of devotees. Over 15 Bollywood stars and nearly 140 artists from TV and stage will be part of the Ramlila.
The Luv Kush Ramlila Committee is incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance the viewing experience. Subhash Goyal, the general secretary of the committee, explained that the production would feature AI-driven elements, digital visual effects, hi-tech 3D mapping, and an advanced eight-track sound system.
Beyond the performances, the Luv Kush Ramlila Committee is weaving social service into the celebrations. A mega health camp will be organized on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday, along with the distribution of materials for differently-abled individuals, sarees for women, and school kits for children. A grand bhandara (community feast) will also be arranged. Renowned bhajan singer Kanhaiya Mittal will perform devotional songs before the staging begins, adding to the spiritual atmosphere. The Red Fort grounds will be transformed with elaborate pandals crafted by artisans from Kolkata, Mathura, Vrindavan, and Ujjain. Visitors can also enjoy a cultural fair featuring regional cuisines and traditional swings.
