Adarsh Ramlila Mandal Celebrates Over 50 Years Of Tradition, Honours Captain Smit Machhar And Promotes Addiction-Free Society

The Adarsh Ramlila Mandal in Bhiwandi is celebrating its 50th anniversary for its annual Ramlila, held at the Manasarovar area. This production, featuring over 20 artists from Kashi and Prayagraj, and local performers from Maharashtra, has honored Captain Smit Machhar, a devoted follower of Lord Hanuman who saved 174 lives. Special entrances and hoardings have been erected in his memory, without the inclusion of politicians or social workers.

The performances encompass key episodes from the Ramayana such as Darshan, Phulwari, Dhanush Yagya, Ravana and Banasura's dialogue, Janak's fury, Lakshman's anger and the breaking of Shiva's bow. Notably, Anil Tiwari, who plays Lakshman, and Sunil Tiwari, portraying Lord Shiva, are brothers; likewise, Santosh Pundge, as Hanuman, and Dashrath Pundge, as Ravana, are also brothers.

Veteran artist Pandit Subhash Sharma, a retired Central Government worker, has been part of the Ramlila for 57 years and has portrayed numerous pivotal figures. A local lyricist, Gudiya Singh, who has been playing Mata Sita for six years, began her interest in traditional and devotional songs during her childhood. Alongside preserving the religious and cultural heritage, the Adarsh Ramlila Mandal is promoting an addiction-free society through posters and a short play by Brahma Kumaris performers, highlighting the dangers of substance abuse and encouraging a lifestyle free of intoxicants.