Ranikhet : A unique cultural initiative aimed at promoting women’s participation in traditional performing arts began with great enthusiasm in Ranikhet as the first-ever two-day Women Ramleela Competition commenced at the Mission Inter College campus under the aegis of the Cultural Committee.
The event was inaugurated jointly by former Block Pramukh Hira Singh Rawat, BJP Mahila Morcha State Minister Vimla Rawat, and Cultural Committee President Vimal Sati by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Committee members extended a warm welcome to the guests.
Addressing the gathering, chief guest Hira Singh Rawat described the competition as a remarkable effort to provide women with equal opportunities on a stage traditionally dominated by men. He said the event would help identify and nurture hidden talent among women while strengthening their confidence and leadership abilities.
Rawat further noted that the participation of people from different communities and faiths reflected the spirit of communal harmony and India’s composite culture. He praised the Cultural Committee for its continuous efforts in preserving and promoting the region’s cultural heritage.
Special guest Vimla Rawat said such initiatives play a vital role in women’s empowerment by offering a platform to talented women who often remain confined to household responsibilities. She remarked that the performances clearly demonstrated that women are equally capable of portraying complex and powerful characters from the Ramayana with skill and emotional depth.
In his welcome address, Cultural Committee President Vimal Sati said the competition marks a significant milestone in Ranikhet’s cultural history. He emphasized that the committee remains committed to preserving cultural traditions while encouraging greater participation of women in artistic and cultural activities.
During the programme, several Ramleela committees were honoured for their long-standing contribution to promoting traditional theatre. Committees from Khadi Bazaar Ranikhet, Indira Basti, Jainoli, Lal Kurti, Kunelakhet, Chilyanaula and Riyuni Majkhali received recognition for their dedicated service to cultural preservation.
The first day of the competition featured impressive performances by women’s groups. Matri Shakti Group, Ranikhet presented the famous Parshuram-Lakshman dialogue, while Gaura Self-Help Group, Chilyanaula enacted the Surpanakha episode. Jai Maa Kali Self-Help Group, Pakhuda staged the Sita Swayamvar episode, and the Cultural Committee’s team performed the Tadka Vadh sequence with remarkable impact.
The audience responded enthusiastically to the performances, appreciating the dedication, acting skills, and stage presence of the participants. The event highlighted the growing role of women in preserving and promoting India’s rich cultural traditions.
The programme was conducted by Deepak Pant. Among those present were Harish Lal Sah, Gaurav Bhatt, Rajendra Pant, Gaurav Tiwari, Abhishek Kandpal, Geeta Pawar, Reena Verma, Neha Sah, Sanjay Pant, Kailash Pandey, Jagdish Agrawal, C.S. Jain, H.S. Kadakoti, and several other prominent citizens.
The successful opening day has generated considerable excitement, and organizers are hopeful that the Women Ramleela Competition will become an important annual cultural event in the region.
