LUCKNOW: The decades-old Ramleela staged at Aishbagh Ramleela ground in the state capital will be again staged without an audience but would be streamed online for the second time in a row as a precaution to check surge in Covid-19 cases.
The Ramleela, which was otherwise staged by around 300 artists from across the country, will be staged by a few local theatre artists and a few from Bengal in the presence of only the committee members.
“The decision has been taken since a huge crowd comes to watch the show and it is very difficult to ensure Covid protocols are followed strictly as required. We will continue the tradition and make it a larger-than-life event for the audience viewing the Ramleela from their homes,” said Shri Ramleela Samiti Aishbagh president Harish Chandra Agarwal.
The Ramleela and dance performances will be presented at the Tulsi Hall and will be streamed on Facebook, YouTube and the official website of the samiti.
Dusshehra will also be celebrated but the theme for the 80-foot effigy of demon king Ravana has not been decided yet.
The musical Ramleela organized by the 59-year-old Mahanagar Ramleela Samiti will also be staged, and the audience will be allowed. Only fully vaccinated artists will enact roles in Ramleela.
“The government has given permission for Ramleela, so we decided to organise it like before, but by maintaining all Covid protocols. Masks will be checked, and social distancing will also be maintained,” said samiti member Mrityunjay Pandey, adding that Ramleela will begin from October 12.
Similarly, Shri Public Bal Ramleela Samiti, Chowk, will also organise Ramleela at Lohia Park in the area while following all Covid guidelines. The time is short, but artists are very enthusiastic for the show this year, said a samiti member.
