CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Grand Performance of Sri Lankan Dance Drama “Ravaneshwar” at Rabindranath Tagore University, Bhopal
Under the joint aegis of Rabindranath Tagore University, Bhopal, and Vishwarang Foundation, a spectacular Sri Lankan dance drama titled “Ravaneshwar” was staged by renowned artists from Sri Lanka. The event aimed not only to keep alive traditional theatrical forms such as Ramleela but also to promote international cultural collaboration and showcase Indian cultural values on the global stage.
The occasion was graced by prominent dignitaries including Santosh Choubey, Chancellor of Rabindranath Tagore University; Dr. Amila Damayanti, Head of the Department, Faculty of Dance & Drama, Indian and Asian Dance Department, Sri Lanka; Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ravi Prakash Dubey; Vice-Chancellor of SGSU Dr. Vijay Singh; Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dr. Sanjeev Gupta; and Registrar Dr. Sangeeta Johri.
Story and Theme
Ravaneshwar is a dance-drama originally based on the Ramayana performed in Sri Lanka. The story begins by portraying Ravana as a devotee of Lord Shiva and a skilled veena player. As the narrative progresses, his desires, ego, and failures unfold, ultimately leading him toward downfall.
Expression, Music, and Dance
The drama showcases a fusion of traditional Sri Lankan costumes, masks, dance styles, music, and stagecraft. Through expressive acting, dialogue, and choreographed dance sequences, the performers draw the audience into the narrative world.
The combination of stage design, lighting effects, and group choreography makes the performance visually captivating and emotionally impactful. Scenes depicting Ravana’s inner conflict, interactions with his wife and other characters, and his internal struggles resonate strongly with viewers.
Cultural Significance
Through this performance, the artists convey that greatness, power, and talent without self-control, responsibility, and ethical values inevitably lead to downfall. Additionally, the production symbolizes Indo-Sri Lankan cultural dialogue, highlighting shared heritage through the story of Ravana and Lankan cultural motifs.
Santosh Choubey remarked that this event is a significant step in strengthening cultural dialogue and friendship between India and Sri Lanka. The mesmerizing performance of Ravaneshwar merges traditional Sri Lankan artistic styles with theatrical traditions, offering a new understanding of the Indian subcontinent’s cultural diversity and mythological depth.
Previously, Sri Lankan artists staged Ravaneshwar in Ayodhya from October 17–20, 2025, at the invitation of the Department of Culture, Government of Uttar Pradesh, as part of the International Ramleela and Diya Utsav 2025. Following this, the performance was presented in Madhya Pradesh under the joint organization of Rabindranath Tagore University and Vishwarang Foundation.
About the Production
Dr. Amila Damayanti, Head of the Department, Faculty of Dance & Drama, Indian and Asian Dance Department, Sri Lanka, stated:
“Ravaneshwar is a dance-drama we prepared in 2019 for the Kumbh Mela. My Ph.D. research focused on a comparative study of Ramleela in India and Sri Lanka. During this research, after a detailed study of Ramayana-related characters and narratives from Sri Lanka, I created this dance-drama.”
The performance lasts approximately 55 minutes and integrates three traditional Sri Lankan dance styles: Kandyan Dance, Low Country Dance, and Sabaragamuwa Dance. The gestures, expressions, and rhythms of these styles are combined with elements of Indian theatrical tradition to create a unique presentation.
The narrative weaves together Sri Lankan folklore, Tamil traditions (Khamba Ramayana), and various beliefs related to Ravana. A total of 22 characters are brought to life on stage using traditional Sri Lankan costumes, makeup, and music, making it a pure Sri Lankan dance drama.
Cast and Crew
Performers:
Isuru Rushan – Shiva
Lahiru Roshan – Ravana (Choreography)
Yasith Jeevan – Rama
Gayandi – Sita
Hiruni – Mandodari
Imalka – Surpanakha
Tarush – Lakshman
Sachin – Jatayu
Background Actors:
Binure, Akhil, Dilshan, Niyamit, Prabha, Toshani, Chamudi, Santhali, Bhavanti, Kalindi, Nimitra
Backstage:
Ishama – Kathak
Chamir Lakshan – Light & Track
Direction/Writing:
Dr. Amila Damayanti
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