Emceed by Ravan

In designer Nida Mahmood and Raul Chandras world,a Ramlila performance is one where contemporary music meets crazy behind-the-scenes visuals and a live puppet performance is peppered with thundering dialogues by Ravana.

In designer Nida Mahmood and Raul Chandras world,a Ramlila performance is one where contemporary music meets crazy behind-the-scenes visuals and a live puppet performance is peppered with thundering dialogues by Ravana. The great Indian tamasha has performing artistes sitting in the audience,as snatches of the popular television series,Ramayana,are aired on screen.

The first episode of this collaborative experiment of folk theatre and futuristic mélange was held on Tuesday night at Ram Lila grounds,North Avenue. The first part of the act was a futuristic audio-visual presentation by the music group B.L.O.T,followed by a puppet performance by Delhi-based group,Urshila.

Dressed in casual jeans and T-shirt,Mahmood said,We wanted to give an avenue to the almost-dying theatre art. Not many people are aware of the kind of effort that goes into a Ramlila performance or a Kathputli performance. The costumes,jewellery,even the act itself,have been passed on for generations. The designers collection at the upcoming Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week will also be inspired by the stage play. The collection is called The Great Indian Bohemian Tamasha and its going to be all about theatre. Ive also planned something exciting for the grand finale. Its going to be a surprise, added Mahmood. Her establishment with Chandha,New India Bioscope Co,has been working on reviving dying art forms. Their endeavour to revive Bollywood poster art,two years ago,was highly successful.

Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram