Guided Viewing of Ramlila in Varanasi

The only existing ancient art form in India to remain untouched by technology, Ramlila turns the streets of Ramnagar in Varanasi into a moving stage, with its acts played out on theater sets at different locations to represent the main locations of the story. The performers move from locality to locality, and amazingly, the simple, non-technical performances — without lights, microphones or loudspeakers — attract large crowds, sometimes numbering into a thousand.
The Ramlila festivities last for a month and were started in the 19th century by the then Maharaja of Benaras, Udit Narayan Singh. Hundreds of Sadhus, known as ‘Ramayanis’ come to watch and recite the Ramayana.
Your guide will brief you about every act and performance as you watch and walk between the sets. Interact with the locals, hear their tales of Ramayana, and taste some mouth-watering delicacies (own expense) prepared especially for the occasion.
Along the way, shop for goods at the local markets, and learn haggling tricks from your guide.
At the closing stages of each episode, watch an aarti (lantern) religious ceremony conducted by a priest.
On the last day of the Ramlila plays, millions of people visit Ramnagar to celebrate Dussehra, a Hindu festival that marks the victory of good over evil. The atmosphere is festive and cheerful, with audiences whistling and cheering the actors as the story unfolds.