Sita Ram and Good Evening:
The last few nights have marked the 34th occasion that the people of Sangre Grande have come together to bring the sacred scriptures of the Ramayan to life. I am deeply grateful to the Sangre Grande Ramleela Committee for its graciousness in asking me to be part of this important religious, cultural and community-centred tradition.
When I received the invitation from the Committee to bring greetings to you, I accepted it enthusiastically. One of the reasons for this is that I never cease to be enthralled by the vibrant and cultural production that is Ramleela. The beautiful and meticulously designed costumes, the pulsating rhythm of the tassa music, the lively audience participation and, of course, the masterful storytelling, all combine to create a truly electrifying atmosphere. Still, as wonderful as these elements are, they of course form only part of the beauty of the Festival, as Ramleela is more—much more—than only a stunning and a gripping visual and artistic performance.
How lucky we are in this country to be able to have all our citizens, of every religious persuasion, of every class, colour and creed, participate in this truly amazing Festival. Ramleela is a cultural, social and spiritual phenomenon which has enriched Trinidad and Tobago for many years. It is a time when entire communities come together to re-enact the life and times of Sri Ram as chronicled in the Ramayan. It is a wonderful opportunity for young people to become immersed in our religious and cultural traditions, and to have the opportunity to one day carry them forward. It is a time for everyone, the Hindus and non-Hindus alike, to reflect on and identify with many of the themes and moral lessons found throughout the story.
The unique, multifaceted experience of Ramleela has ensured that, well over a century since its introduction to this nation, it remains a significant and highly anticipated cultural staple. Ramleela has been an integral part of our nation’s heritage since the arrival of indentured labourers in the 19th century. That the celebration of Ramleela continues in 2024 is testament to the determination of our forebearers to preserve their heritage and keep their traditions alive. That this is the 34th staging of Ramleela in Sangre Grande, is testament to yourdevotion, hard work and unwavering commitment to safeguarding this sacred tradition.
One of the most endearing aspects of Ramleela, is its involvement of young people. I was particularly heartened to learn that approximately 175 players are involved this year, the majority of whom are young people from the Sangre Grande community. As you may be aware, one of my main areas of focus as President is young people, and encouraging them to engage in endeavours that are beneficial and life-giving. Participating in Ramleela offers this opportunity and more, much more.
It is my hope that, having had such a rich experience, our young people will not only develop a profound love and respect for our history and customs, but also pay close attention to the valuable life lessons at the heart of the story and the values embodied by some of the characters they portray.
As our youth embrace these attributes, they will become better equipped to face the challenges that come their way. I therefore encourage all young people to put themselves forward and participate in this and other cultural productions and to apply the salutary lessons learned to their daily lives.
My encouragement also extends to those of us who are viewing and attending this performance of Ramleela. While Ramleela is undoubtedly a theatrical and cultural experience, it also serves as a profound spiritual and educational experience for all. There is a great deal to be unpacked from the dramatisation of the life and times of Lord Ram – which is at the core of Ramleela.
Through these re-enactments, we witness the timeless struggle of good versus evil and the portrayal of characteristics such as discipline, respect for elders, courage, love, loyalty, friendship, and faith. Each character embodies vital aspects of our own human experience, prompting each one of us to reflect on our own lives. Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, for example, exemplify love and devotion, demonstrating the strength and resilience that love can offer in the face of adversity. Their example is also a lesson in the power of determination, perseverance and faith to conquer even the most formidable challenges.
Ramleela, in Sangre Grande and throughout our beloved country, is not just an open-air theatre, but also an educational medium that teaches us the importance of love and respect, moral values, and most importantly, it teaches us righteous living. The characters displayed in Ramleela remind us of our duties in our various relationships, to aspire to be the ideal father/mother, ideal son/daughter, ideal husband/wife, ideal brother/sister, ideal leader and ideal citizen.”
I think that we can all agree that our society is better when our citizens embrace and embody those principles. Ramleela in my opinion offers us the opportunity to do so.
I therefore commend and thank the Sangre Grande Ramleela Committee, and indeed all involved in the production of Ramleela, here in Sangre Grande and throughout the nation, for ensuring that, year after year, the people of Trinidad and Tobago benefit from these life lessons. I thank you for your efforts in ensuring that our young people are actively involved and well-equipped to carry forward this tradition into the next era, and for providing them the opportunity to explore their potential and one day become capable and empowered members of the national community.
I extend my deepest appreciation to every volunteer, sponsor and supporter of this endeavour for their generosity and sacrifice. That is what keeps this cultural tradition alive and thriving in Sangre Grande and beyond. This is what makes this such a community-centred and successful tradition. This is indeed what Ramleela is all about.
And so, I thank you for the opportunity to speak with you this evening, as Ramleela comes to a close, and I wish the Sangre Grande Ramleela Committee every success as it continues to preserve and keep our cultural traditions alive.
Thank you.
