
Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, is one of the most vivid festivals in India, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. In the Delhi NCR, the spirit of Dussehra is enlivened by grand performances of Ramlila, the traditional telling of how Lord Rama overcame Ravana. Here is a guide to the best places to catch Ramlilas worth remembering in the capital region.
One of the most iconic places to watch this ancient theatre is certainly the Ramlila Maidan. The extravagance of this event is marked by huge effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran being set on fire, amid fireworks, on the night of Vijayadashami. An amalgamation of dignitaries from the political and entertainment realms, the event blends tradition with glamour and attracts massive crowds every year.
The Luv-Kush Ramlila Committee at Red Fort is one of the oldest and most prestigious in the country. The Mughal-era fort provides an imperial aura to the telling. Professional actors attired in elaborate costumes, employed in the background are modern sound-and-light techniques, create this virtuous fusion of culture and theatre. Watching the epic here is like stepping into history.
For a much more theatrically artistic take on the Ramlila, go to Shri Ram Bharatiya Kala Kendra. Inaugurated in 1957, this stage adaptation is famed for its powerful choreography and musical/dance sequences. Unlike the traditional, open-air Ramlilas, this is ticketed and done indoor, providing a completely alternate and unique experience especially for families who want an immersive experience of the retelling of the Ramayana.
Over the years, Dwarka has emerged as an arena for community-based Ramlilas. Any version hosted in West Delhi from Sector-10 ground happens to be among the most popular, embellished with local talents, bhajan-singing, and festival bazaars. Families get to enjoy cultural events, food stalls, and shopping while the festive spirit abounds.
For the residents of Noida and the surrounding areas, the Noida Stadium should be a definite must-visit for the grand Ramlila. It is known for its size and the attendance of thousands who come to witness it with enthusiasm. The burning of the effigy is then accompanied by scintillating fireworks and folk performances to display the very rich cultural heritage of Uttar Pradesh.
Faridabad also boasts impressive celebrations in the NCR. The Sector 12 ground becomes a lively cultural hub during Dussehra, with devotional plays, live music, and bustling markets. One of the highlights is the climactic night, when the gigantic effigy of Ravana is set ablaze, as the crowd cheers in unison.
In 2025, while digital entertainment is almost available at the click of a button, Ramlila continues to attract people across generations. It signifies, beyond religion, India's culture, art of storytelling, and the hope that one of these days, the truth shall prevail. Be it the magnificent celebrations at the Red Fort or the friendly ambience at Dwarka: there is a Ramlila experience for all in Delhi NCR.
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