<p>Ranbir Kapoor is&nbsp;giving&nbsp;work updates on what he has been up to. The actor is on cloud nine after delivering the major box office hit <em>Animal</em> in December 2023 and then signing two big projects: Sanjay Leela Bhansali's<em> Love and War </em>and Nitesh Tiwari's <em>Ramayana.</em></p>

<p>The actor is currently at the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah, where he has talked about his most anticipated project, <em>Ramayana.</em></p>

<p><strong>Ranbir on working in Ramayana</strong></p>

<p>Speaking about the project based on a Hindu epic, the actor confirmed that he has finished shooting part 1 of the movie.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/diljit-dosanjh-quotes-rahat-indoris-lines-as-alcohol-non-veg-food-is-banned-at-his-indore-concert-782638">Diljit Dosanjh quotes Rahat Indori as alcohol, non-veg food is banned at his Indore concert</a></p>

<p>“I am currently working on a film called Ramayan, which is India's greatest story. It's being produced by Namit Malhotra...It's got artists, creators and different crew members from all around the world. It's made over two parts. It's the story of Lord Ram and Raavan and it's India's greatest story. And to say it to this new generation with the kind of technology that we have it's a very exciting and very gratifying opportunity for me as an actor, especially to play the part of Lord Ram," Ranbir told Deadline</p>

<p>Sharing more details about the project, the <em>Animal </em>actor said it's a dream to be essaying the role of Lord Ram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''It is directed by Nitesh Tiwari. It has two parts. I have finished the shooting of Part 1 and will shoot Part 2 soon. Just to be a part of that story, I am so humbled to essay Ram’s role. It’s a dream for me. It’s a film that has everything. It teaches what Indian culture is about — family dynamics and husband-wife dynamics. So I'm very very excited about that."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/sanjay-dutt-joins-tiger-shroffs-baaghi-4-first-intense-poster-out-782631">Sanjay Dutt joins Tiger Shroff's Baaghi 4, first intense poster OUT</a></p>

<p><strong>More about Ramayana</strong></p>

<p>In November, producer Namit Malhotra revealed the title and release date. The first part of the movie will hit theatres in 2026, and Part 2 will come out in 2027.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from Ranbir, the movie also stars Sai Pallavi and Yash. In the movie, Ranbir will be playing the role of Lord Ram, Sai will essay the role of Sita and Yash will be the antagonist Ravana.</p>


Ranbir Kapoor is giving work updates on what he has been up to. The actor is on cloud nine after delivering the major box office hit Animal in December 2023 and then signing two big projects: Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War and Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana.

Ranbir Kapoor is giving work updates on what he has been up to. The actor is on cloud nine after delivering the major box office hit Animal in December 2023 and then signing two big projects: Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Love and War and Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana. The actor is currently at the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah, where he has talked about his most anticipated project, Ramayana. Ranbir on working in Ramayana Speaking about the project based on a Hindu epic, the actor confirmed that he has finished shooting part 1 of the movie. Also read: Diljit Dosanjh quotes Rahat Indori as alcohol, non-veg food is banned at his Indore concert “I am currently working on a film called Ramayan, which is India's greatest story. It's being produced by Namit Malhotra...It's got artists, creators and different crew members from all around the world. It's made over two parts. It's the story of Lord Ram and Raavan and it's India's greatest story. And to say it to this new generation with the kind of technology that we have it's a very exciting and very gratifying opportunity for me as an actor, especially to play the part of Lord Ram," Ranbir told Deadline Sharing more details about the project, the Animal actor said it's a dream to be essaying the role of Lord Ram. ''It is directed by Nitesh Tiwari. It has two parts. I have finished the shooting of Part 1 and will shoot Part 2 soon. Just to be a part of that story, I am so humbled to essay Ram’s role. It’s a dream for me. It’s a film that has everything. It teaches what Indian culture is about — family dynamics and husband-wife dynamics. So I'm very very excited about that." Also read: Sanjay Dutt joins Tiger Shroff's Baaghi 4, first intense poster OUT More about Ramayana In November, producer Namit Malhotra revealed the title and release date. The first part of the movie will hit theatres in 2026, and Part 2 will come out in 2027. Apart from Ranbir, the movie also stars Sai Pallavi and Yash. In the movie, Ranbir will be playing the role of Lord Ram, Sai will essay the role of Sita and Yash will be the antagonist Ravana.

'It’s a dream for me': Ranbir Kapoor gives details about Ramayana, confirms part 1 is complete

<p>In a shocking incident, a 45-year-old theatre actor was arrested after he killed a live pig on the stage, ripped its stomach and ate its raw meat while playing the role of a demon in <em>Ramayana </em>in Ganjam district of the Indian state of Odisha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident caused statewide outrage and the issue was also raised in the assembly on Monday (Dec 2), where it was condemned.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The horrible incident was also criticised by political figures and animal rights advocates after&nbsp; videos went viral on social media.</p>

<p>Ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lawmakers Babu Singh and Sanatan Bijuli, while speaking in the assembly, strongly denounced the event and said those responsible should be held accountable.</p>

<p>Along with the actor, Bimbadhar Gouda, one of the theatre's organisers was also arrested in Ralab village near the Hinjili police station on November 24. The police took the two into custody for violating the Wildlife Protection Act and causing cruelty to animals.</p>

<p>"We are also looking for the persons who displayed snakes in the theatre. They will also be arrested soon," said Berhampur Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Sunny Khokar.</p>

<p>The name of the arrested organiser was not disclosed by the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-police-solve-missing-sharpener-case-at-school-netizens-praise-780924">Indian police solve missing sharpener case at school, netizens praise</a></p>

<p>In August last year, a guideline was issued by the state government in which the public display of snakes, which included certified snake handlers, was prohibited.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Displaying of snakes in public was also forbidden for even the qualified handlers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have registered a case against the theatre actor who killed the pig and ate its meat in the theatre, and arrested him," Hinjili police station inspector-in-charge Srinibas Sethy said.</p>

<h2><strong>Theatre's gory performance to draw crowd</strong></h2>

<p>Sethy further said a gory performance was put on by the theatrical troupe to attract people during the Kanjianal Yatra festival.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;India: Four killed in Sambhal Violence, Prohibitory Orders Imposed</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-four-killed-in-sambhal-violence-prohibitory-orders-imposed-779191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>He said the theatrical Ramayana included a display of snakes while the stomach of a live pig was ripped open with a knife by the demon and some of its organs were eaten in public view, even as the animal remained tied to the ceiling of the stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The play was organised by a group of villagers in the village on the occasion of Kanjianal Yatra.&nbsp;The occurrence of the event has outraged animal&nbsp;rights organisations and they have called for strict measures.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a shocking incident, a 45-year-old theatre actor was arrested after he killed a live pig on the stage, ripped its stomach and ate its raw meat while playing the role of a demon in Ramayana in Ganjam district of the Indian state of Odisha.

In a shocking incident, a 45-year-old theatre actor was arrested after he killed a live pig on the stage, ripped its stomach and ate its raw meat while playing the role of a demon in Ramayana in Ganjam district of the Indian state of Odisha. The incident caused statewide outrage and the issue was also raised in the assembly on Monday (Dec 2), where it was condemned. The horrible incident was also criticised by political figures and animal rights advocates after videos went viral on social media. Ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lawmakers Babu Singh and Sanatan Bijuli, while speaking in the assembly, strongly denounced the event and said those responsible should be held accountable. Along with the actor, Bimbadhar Gouda, one of the theatre's organisers was also arrested in Ralab village near the Hinjili police station on November 24. The police took the two into custody for violating the Wildlife Protection Act and causing cruelty to animals. "We are also looking for the persons who displayed snakes in the theatre. They will also be arrested soon," said Berhampur Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Sunny Khokar. The name of the arrested organiser was not disclosed by the police. Also Read: Indian police solve missing sharpener case at school, netizens praise In August last year, a guideline was issued by the state government in which the public display of snakes, which included certified snake handlers, was prohibited. Displaying of snakes in public was also forbidden for even the qualified handlers. "We have registered a case against the theatre actor who killed the pig and ate its meat in the theatre, and arrested him," Hinjili police station inspector-in-charge Srinibas Sethy said. Theatre's gory performance to draw crowd Sethy further said a gory performance was put on by the theatrical troupe to attract people during the Kanjianal Yatra festival. Watch: India: Four killed in Sambhal Violence, Prohibitory Orders Imposed He said the theatrical Ramayana included a display of snakes while the stomach of a live pig was ripped open with a knife by the demon and some of its organs were eaten in public view, even as the animal remained tied to the ceiling of the stage. The play was organised by a group of villagers in the village on the occasion of Kanjianal Yatra. The occurrence of the event has outraged animal rights organisations and they have called for strict measures. (With inputs from agencies)

Actor playing demon in theatrical Ramayana kills a live pig, devours its raw meat

<p>An advertisement made by Sri Lankan&nbsp;Airlines garnered a lot of appreciation on social media platforms for showing the "Ramayana Trail" which took the viewers on a journey to different iconic locations related to the Hindu epic Ramayana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the five-minute advertisement, the grandmother is seen narrating the Hindu epic to her grandson through a children's book.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, the grandson questions about the island where Sita was taken by Ravan after getting kidnapped. Then, the grandmother tells him the story of the kingdom of Ravan which is today Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>"All the places in the Ramayana are real. Today we know Lanka as Sri Lanka," the grandmother says and the video shows the visuals of Ravan's Cave close to Ella town where it is believed Sita was kept before being taken to the Ashoka Vatika, which was inside the palace of the demon king.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/khalistani-terrorist-pannun-threatens-to-attack-indias-ram-mandir-warns-will-shake-foundations-of-ayodhya-775276">Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack India's Ram Mandir, warns 'will shake foundations of Ayodhya'</a></p>

<p>In the video, the Seetha Amman Temple – also called Ashok Vatika Sita Temple – was shown. In today's time, it is maintained by the Indian Tamils of Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>The video also mentioned the bridge built by Rama's army to reach Sri Lanka which is the Ram Setu bridge that connects Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu to the Sri Lankan coast.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Relive the epic of The Ramayana Trail<br />
<br />
Embark on a journey through Sri Lanka’s legendary landscapes with SriLankan Holidays, offering a fully customized experience tailored just for you. Every step of your adventure is designed to bring out the grandeur and glory in the ancient… <a href="https://t.co/jctUhc4JKn">pic.twitter.com/jctUhc4JKn</a></p>
— SriLankan Airlines (@flysrilankan) <a href="https://twitter.com/flysrilankan/status/1854783204877910298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"Is the bridge still standing," asked the grandson. "Yes, you can still see it today," the grandmother answered.</p>

<p>The Rumassala Hill, which is believed to be one of the fragments of medicinal herbs that had fallen from the Hanuman when he was carrying the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshman, was also mentioned in the video.</p>

<h2><strong>Netizens react to the video</strong></h2>

<p>The X users were delighted by the advertisement and appreciated the Sri Lankan airline's initiative to promote spiritual tourism using the story of Ramayana.</p>

<p>"What an outstanding advertisement. It will really appeal so many people to visit Sri Lanka," said a user.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Diwali Celebrations Feature Muslim Poets Reciting Urdu Version Of Ramayana In Bikaner</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/diwali-celebrations-feature-muslim-poets-reciting-urdu-version-of-ramayana-in-bikaner-771664/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"Such a spectacular ad. Got goosebumps watching it. Our tourism sector needs to learn from this," wrote another user.</p>

<p>A third user called the advertisement "one of the best airline advertisements".</p>

<p>"What a remarkable advertisement! Highlighting historical sites from the Ramayana, it’s sure to spark curiosity and draw many to explore Sri Lanka’s rich heritage," wrote a fourth user.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Srilanka will be my next big trip. When I went to Bali I was mesmerised by its hospitality, beauty and heritage,” stated a fifth user.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An advertisement made by Sri Lankan Airlines garnered a lot of appreciation on social media platforms for showing the "Ramayana Trail" which took the viewers on a journey to different iconic locations related to the Hindu epic Ramayana.

An advertisement made by Sri Lankan Airlines garnered a lot of appreciation on social media platforms for showing the "Ramayana Trail" which took the viewers on a journey to different iconic locations related to the Hindu epic Ramayana. In the five-minute advertisement, the grandmother is seen narrating the Hindu epic to her grandson through a children's book. In the video, the grandson questions about the island where Sita was taken by Ravan after getting kidnapped. Then, the grandmother tells him the story of the kingdom of Ravan which is today Sri Lanka. "All the places in the Ramayana are real. Today we know Lanka as Sri Lanka," the grandmother says and the video shows the visuals of Ravan's Cave close to Ella town where it is believed Sita was kept before being taken to the Ashoka Vatika, which was inside the palace of the demon king. Also Read: Khalistani terrorist Pannun threatens to attack India's Ram Mandir, warns 'will shake foundations of Ayodhya' In the video, the Seetha Amman Temple – also called Ashok Vatika Sita Temple – was shown. In today's time, it is maintained by the Indian Tamils of Sri Lanka. The video also mentioned the bridge built by Rama's army to reach Sri Lanka which is the Ram Setu bridge that connects Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu to the Sri Lankan coast. Relive the epic of The Ramayana Trail Embark on a journey through Sri Lanka’s legendary landscapes with SriLankan Holidays, offering a fully customized experience tailored just for you. Every step of your adventure is designed to bring out the grandeur and glory in the ancient… pic.twitter.com/jctUhc4JKn — SriLankan Airlines (@flysrilankan) November 8, 2024 × "Is the bridge still standing," asked the grandson. "Yes, you can still see it today," the grandmother answered. The Rumassala Hill, which is believed to be one of the fragments of medicinal herbs that had fallen from the Hanuman when he was carrying the Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshman, was also mentioned in the video. Netizens react to the video The X users were delighted by the advertisement and appreciated the Sri Lankan airline's initiative to promote spiritual tourism using the story of Ramayana. "What an outstanding advertisement. It will really appeal so many people to visit Sri Lanka," said a user. Watch: Diwali Celebrations Feature Muslim Poets Reciting Urdu Version Of Ramayana In Bikaner "Such a spectacular ad. Got goosebumps watching it. Our tourism sector needs to learn from this," wrote another user. A third user called the advertisement "one of the best airline advertisements". "What a remarkable advertisement! Highlighting historical sites from the Ramayana, it’s sure to spark curiosity and draw many to explore Sri Lanka’s rich heritage," wrote a fourth user. “Srilanka will be my next big trip. When I went to Bali I was mesmerised by its hospitality, beauty and heritage,” stated a fifth user. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lankan airlines promotes Ramayana Trail in unique ad, goes viral on social media

<p>Nitesh Tiwari's<em> Ramayana</em> is one of the most awaited projects. After a long wait, the makers have shared the first poster of the movie, confirming the title and release date.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Starring heavyweights Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash, producer Namit Malhotra announced that the movie will be released in two parts. However, the cast was not mentioned in the movie's first poster.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Ramayana: Part 1 release date</strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday (Nov 6), the film's producer, Namit Malhotra, shared the details of the forthcoming epic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharing the poster of the magnum opus, Namit announced that the film will be released in two parts. Ramayana Part 1 will hit the theatres in 2026, and Part 2 will come out in 2027.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCBD-oBzE5o/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCBD-oBzE5o/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCBD-oBzE5o/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DCBD-oBzE5o/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Namit Malhotra (@iamnamitmalhotra)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Promising the most authentic, sacred, and visually stunning adaptation of the Hindu epic Ramayana, the producer wrote in the Instagram caption, ''More than a decade ago, I embarked on a noble quest to bring this epic that has ruled billions of hearts for over 5000 years to the big screen. And today, I am thrilled to see it taking shape beautifully as our teams work tirelessly with only one purpose: to present the most authentic, sacred, and visually stunning adaptation of our history, our truth, and our culture – our “RAMAYANA”– for people across the world.''</p>

<p>The caption further reads, ''Part 1 in Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in Diwali 2027.''</p>

<p><strong>More about Ramayana</strong></p>

<p><em>Ramayana </em>has been one of the most talked about projects at the moment, especially due to the cast. Directed by&nbsp;Tiwari, the movie brings Ranbir, Yash and Sai Pallavi together&nbsp;for the first time. However, there is no official confirmation on the cast from the maker's side yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the movie, Ranbir will be playing the role of Lord Rama,&nbsp;Sai will essay the role of Sita and Yash will be the antagonist Ravana. If reports are to be believed, Sunny Deol is also part of the movie, he will be playing Lord Hanuman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Several photos of Ranbir and Sai from the film's set have gone viral.&nbsp;<em>KGF</em> actor Yash has confirmed that he will play the role of Ravana in the movie. During his interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Yash told. "It’s a very fascinating character. I wouldn’t have done it for any other reason. In Ramayana, if you had asked me ‘would you play any other character?’ Probably not. For me, Ravana is the most exciting character to play as an actor, so I really like the shades and the nuances of this particular character. There’s vast scope to present it in a very different way. As an actor, I am very excited. Hopefully, it’s going to be a very unique approach to it."</p>


Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana is one of the most awaited projects. After a long wait, the makers have shared the first poster of the movie, confirming the title and release date.

Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana is one of the most awaited projects. After a long wait, the makers have shared the first poster of the movie, confirming the title and release date. Starring heavyweights Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, and Yash, producer Namit Malhotra announced that the movie will be released in two parts. However, the cast was not mentioned in the movie's first poster. Ramayana: Part 1 release date On Wednesday (Nov 6), the film's producer, Namit Malhotra, shared the details of the forthcoming epic. Sharing the poster of the magnum opus, Namit announced that the film will be released in two parts. Ramayana Part 1 will hit the theatres in 2026, and Part 2 will come out in 2027. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Namit Malhotra (@iamnamitmalhotra) × Promising the most authentic, sacred, and visually stunning adaptation of the Hindu epic Ramayana, the producer wrote in the Instagram caption, ''More than a decade ago, I embarked on a noble quest to bring this epic that has ruled billions of hearts for over 5000 years to the big screen. And today, I am thrilled to see it taking shape beautifully as our teams work tirelessly with only one purpose: to present the most authentic, sacred, and visually stunning adaptation of our history, our truth, and our culture – our “RAMAYANA”– for people across the world.'' The caption further reads, ''Part 1 in Diwali 2026 and Part 2 in Diwali 2027.'' More about Ramayana Ramayana has been one of the most talked about projects at the moment, especially due to the cast. Directed by Tiwari, the movie brings Ranbir, Yash and Sai Pallavi together for the first time. However, there is no official confirmation on the cast from the maker's side yet. In the movie, Ranbir will be playing the role of Lord Rama, Sai will essay the role of Sita and Yash will be the antagonist Ravana. If reports are to be believed, Sunny Deol is also part of the movie, he will be playing Lord Hanuman. Several photos of Ranbir and Sai from the film's set have gone viral. KGF actor Yash has confirmed that he will play the role of Ravana in the movie. During his interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, Yash told. "It’s a very fascinating character. I wouldn’t have done it for any other reason. In Ramayana, if you had asked me ‘would you play any other character?’ Probably not. For me, Ravana is the most exciting character to play as an actor, so I really like the shades and the nuances of this particular character. There’s vast scope to present it in a very different way. As an actor, I am very excited. Hopefully, it’s going to be a very unique approach to it."

It's official! Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana will be released in two parts: Read more details inside

<p>In a special event celebrating Diwali, Muslim poets in Bikaner recited an Urdu version of the Ramayana, promoting goodwill and harmony. The Urdu Ramayan Vaachan, has been held for 12 years and features a version composed 89 years ago.</p>

<h2><strong>Message of harmony</strong></h2>

<p>Dr. Ziya Ul Hasan Quadri, an Urdu teacher and poet, recited the Urdu Ramayana at a function on Sunday. He emphasised the event's goal of fostering brotherhood and expressed concern about the changing dynamics of communal harmony, stating, "Things have drastically changed from the time when it was composed. Today, communal harmony is under threat. Lord Rama is revered by all and belongs to all, but today he has been limited which is disappointing."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/over-150-injured-in-firework-accident-in-indias-kerala-watch-771536">Over 150 injured in firework accident in India's Kerala</a></p>

<h2><strong>A Rich History</strong></h2>

<p>The event is organised annually by ''Paryatan Lekhak Sangh'' and ''Mehfil-e-Adab''. The Urdu Ramayana was originally composed by Maulvi Badshah Hussain Rana Lakhnavi in 1935 for a competition at Banaras Hindu University, where it won a gold medal. The Maharaja of Bikaner later hosted a ceremony to celebrate this achievement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-wakes-up-to-very-poor-air-quality-ahead-of-diwali-festivities-despite-firecracker-ban-771243">Delhi wakes up to 'very poor' air quality ahead of Diwali festivities despite firecracker ban</a></p>

<p>Quadri shared that the event originally took place outside, but now it’s held in a hotel for better planning. He mentioned that Maulvi Badshah Hussain Rana Lakhnavi worked for Maharaja Ganga Singh from 1913 to 1919, translating orders issued by the Mughal rulers from Persian to Urdu. In 1920, Ganga Singh made him a teacher at Dungar College.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-more-otps-after-november-1-indian-telecom-regulators-directive-causes-concern-770884">No more OTPs after November 1? Indian telecom regulator's directive causes concern</a></p>

<h2><strong>Plans for national reach</strong></h2>

<p>The poets aim to take their recitation program to a national level, with plans to organise an event in the capital next year.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In a special event celebrating Diwali, Muslim poets in Bikaner recited an Urdu version of the Ramayana, promoting goodwill and harmony. The Urdu Ramayan Vaachan, has been held for 12 years and features a version composed 89 years ago.

In a special event celebrating Diwali, Muslim poets in Bikaner recited an Urdu version of the Ramayana, promoting goodwill and harmony. The Urdu Ramayan Vaachan, has been held for 12 years and features a version composed 89 years ago. Message of harmony Dr. Ziya Ul Hasan Quadri, an Urdu teacher and poet, recited the Urdu Ramayana at a function on Sunday. He emphasised the event's goal of fostering brotherhood and expressed concern about the changing dynamics of communal harmony, stating, "Things have drastically changed from the time when it was composed. Today, communal harmony is under threat. Lord Rama is revered by all and belongs to all, but today he has been limited which is disappointing." Also read | Over 150 injured in firework accident in India's Kerala A Rich History The event is organised annually by ''Paryatan Lekhak Sangh'' and ''Mehfil-e-Adab''. The Urdu Ramayana was originally composed by Maulvi Badshah Hussain Rana Lakhnavi in 1935 for a competition at Banaras Hindu University, where it won a gold medal. The Maharaja of Bikaner later hosted a ceremony to celebrate this achievement. Also read | Delhi wakes up to 'very poor' air quality ahead of Diwali festivities despite firecracker ban Quadri shared that the event originally took place outside, but now it’s held in a hotel for better planning. He mentioned that Maulvi Badshah Hussain Rana Lakhnavi worked for Maharaja Ganga Singh from 1913 to 1919, translating orders issued by the Mughal rulers from Persian to Urdu. In 1920, Ganga Singh made him a teacher at Dungar College. Also read | No more OTPs after November 1? Indian telecom regulator's directive causes concern Plans for national reach The poets aim to take their recitation program to a national level, with plans to organise an event in the capital next year. (With inputs from agencies)

Diwali celebrations feature Muslim poets reciting Urdu version of Ramayana in Bikaner

<p>One of the best thing about re-releasing films is that you get to see your favourite movies on the big screens. Amid the re-release of so many movies, the most recent film that movie lovers can see is <em>Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama.</em></p>

<p>The anime film will hit the theatres in India on October 18, 2024. The film will be released in four languages - Hindi, English, Tamil and Telugu.</p>

<p>On Thursday (Sept 19), the makers, Geek Pictures India, made the big announcement by sharing a poster and a teaser.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the caption of the post, they wrote, "A tale as old as time, and forever alive in every heart. Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is coming to theatres across India in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and English on October 18! Teaser out now (sic)."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAFdkarS6Zk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAFdkarS6Zk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAFdkarS6Zk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAFdkarS6Zk/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Geek Pictures India (@geekpictures_india)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Soon after the announcement, netizens weren't able to contain their excitement for their beloved anime movie.&nbsp;</p>

<p>''Welcome home the most beautiful film on Ramayana. 🩵🐳,'' one user commented on the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another wrote, ''CAN’T WAIT 😭 THIS MOVIE IS MY CHILDHOOD!''</p>

<p>Legendary screenwriter V Vijayendra Prasad, known for his films&nbsp;like Baahubali, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and RRR, has worked in the&nbsp;adaptation.</p>

<p>The 1992 film is one of the most loved on-screen adaptations of the Hindu epic Ramayana. The movie is set around the time when Prince Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, leaves his home in Ayodhya to live in exile in the forest for 14 years. During their time in the jungle, Ravana, the king of Lanka, kidnaps&nbsp;Sita, which leads to a battle&nbsp;between Ram and Ravana.</p>

<p>Arjun Aggarwal, the co-founder of Geek Pictures India, said, "The Ramayana in anime is a groundbreaking testament to the strength of Indo-Japan collaborations. This fresh, dynamic portrayal of the timeless legend of Ram will undoubtedly strike a chord with audiences across all regions and age groups, bringing this epic to life in a way that’s never been seen before."</p>

<p>The movie has been released in India Geek Pictures India, AA Films and Excel Entertainment.</p>


One of the best thing about re-releasing films is that you get to see your favourite movies on the big screens. Amid the re-release of so many movies, the most recent film that movie lovers can see is Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama.

One of the best thing about re-releasing films is that you get to see your favourite movies on the big screens. Amid the re-release of so many movies, the most recent film that movie lovers can see is Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama. The anime film will hit the theatres in India on October 18, 2024. The film will be released in four languages - Hindi, English, Tamil and Telugu. On Thursday (Sept 19), the makers, Geek Pictures India, made the big announcement by sharing a poster and a teaser. In the caption of the post, they wrote, "A tale as old as time, and forever alive in every heart. Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama is coming to theatres across India in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu and English on October 18! Teaser out now (sic)." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Geek Pictures India (@geekpictures_india) × Soon after the announcement, netizens weren't able to contain their excitement for their beloved anime movie. ''Welcome home the most beautiful film on Ramayana. 🩵🐳,'' one user commented on the post. Another wrote, ''CAN’T WAIT 😭 THIS MOVIE IS MY CHILDHOOD!'' Legendary screenwriter V Vijayendra Prasad, known for his films like Baahubali, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and RRR, has worked in the adaptation. The 1992 film is one of the most loved on-screen adaptations of the Hindu epic Ramayana. The movie is set around the time when Prince Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, leaves his home in Ayodhya to live in exile in the forest for 14 years. During their time in the jungle, Ravana, the king of Lanka, kidnaps Sita, which leads to a battle between Ram and Ravana. Arjun Aggarwal, the co-founder of Geek Pictures India, said, "The Ramayana in anime is a groundbreaking testament to the strength of Indo-Japan collaborations. This fresh, dynamic portrayal of the timeless legend of Ram will undoubtedly strike a chord with audiences across all regions and age groups, bringing this epic to life in a way that’s never been seen before." The movie has been released in India Geek Pictures India, AA Films and Excel Entertainment.

Remember Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama? It's re-releasing in theatres on this date

<p>"Ram is not conflict but resolution," said Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya earlier this year. This sentiment is echoed in External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar's book, <em>'Why Bharat Matters'</em>, which was released just weeks before the Ayodhya event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his book, Jaishankar explores how the Hindu epic Ramayana offers fundamental insights for India's foreign policy.<img alt="People watch a screen as India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially consecrates the Ram temple, in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8117616e-8e1e-40c2-a554-669e0f3908c5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_34GA6XD.jpg" /></p>

<p><em>People watch a screen as India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially consecrates the Ram temple, in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024 | AFP</em></p>

<p>Jaishankar suggests that the story of Lord Ram reflects the journey of a rising power, like India, that harmonises its national interests with a commitment to the global good.</p>

<p>Here’s a breakdown of what might be called Jaishankar’s 'Ramayana Doctrine' in five key lessons:</p>

<h2><strong>1. Nations mature through demonstration of strength</strong></h2>

<p>Before Lord Ram became a central figure among warriors, he and his brother Lakshman faced several challenges. First, Ram defeated the demoness Tataka, followed by more formidable foes like Maricha and Subahu. Only after overcoming these adversaries did Ram string Shiva’s divine bow in the Kingdom of Mithila, securing his marriage to Sita.</p>

<p>Jaishankar, while describing 'a transformational decade' (2014-2024), adds that, for countries as well as people, major tests are often preceded by earlier experiences of a significant nature.</p>

<p>In modern terms, India’s emergence on the world stage can be seen through similar milestones—whether it was winning the war for the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971, the 1998 nuclear tests, or the 2019 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indias-balakot-redemption-when-pakistani-propaganda-failed-to-pierce-through-indias-anti-terror-feat-566111">Balakot airstrikes</a>. Each of these events showcased India's strength and maturity as a rising power.<img alt="1971 war and Pokharan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6d4c5b21-b5aa-4dda-b7f6-9a913d1a67e0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1971Pokharan.png" /></p>

<p><em>India's military intervention in erstwhile East Pakistan facilitated the creation of Bangladesh in 1971; India in 1998 successfully conducted nuclear tests in Rajasthan's Pokhran | X/@ashokgehlot51; Press Information Bureau</em>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yet, achieving a state of Ram Rajya—a rules-based order—on India's terms will require navigating resistance from established powers. As Jaishankar notes, "Swimming upstream is the karma of all rising powers."</p>

<h2><strong>2. Building alliances is essential for achieving national goals</strong></h2>

<p>To rescue Sita from the clutches of the Lankan King Ravana, Lord Ram did not act alone. He relied on the support of his brother Lakshman and his devoted follower, Hanuman. These alliances were crucial in gaining the support of others, like the Monkey King Sugriva and the Bear King Jambavan, as well as Vibheeshana, Ravana’s brother.</p>

<p>Jaishankar draws a parallel here while emphasising the importance of allies for a rising power like India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Those with larger ambitions must develop reliable partners and assured sources of support," he writes.&nbsp;<img alt="Vaccine diplomacy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5222389e-8187-49f8-aba6-bca13d2ecaed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/vaccinediplomacy.png" /></p>

<p><em>As of 21 February 2022, India had delivered 162.9 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to 96 countries — of which, 14.3 million doses were gifted to 98 countries;&nbsp;Jaishankar argues that even in the domain of global politics, every Ram needs a Lakshman, "someone trustworthy and vigilant who will share both successes and sorrows" | AFP&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>Citing the examples of India's vaccine diplomacy during Covid pandemic and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-summit-how-diplomacy-of-modis-bharat-pulled-off-african-unions-inclusion-634443">African Union's inclusion in G20</a> during New Delhi G20 Leaders' Summit, the external affairs minister argues that India's constituencies of support are expanding across the world.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>3. The power of shared values should not be underestimated</strong></h2>

<p>After being exiled on the eve of his coronation, Ram encountered his half-brother Bharata, who had been favoured in his place. The episode is solemnised as <em>Bharata Milaap</em> in popular culture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite their differing interests, the bond among the four brothers—Ram, Bharata, Lakshman, and Shatrughan—remained strong.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This unity, despite tensions, was a testament to their shared values.</p>

<p>Similarly, the Quadrilateral Security Alliance or Quad —India, Australia, Japan, and the United States—consists of nations with distinct interests but a strong commitment to democratic values.</p>

<p><img alt="Jaishankar Quad" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1a3c9344-d919-4836-9ad9-0d29b8ec783b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/JaishankarQuad.png" /></p>

<p><em>(L to R) India's External Affairs Minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Japan's Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken after the Quad Ministerial Meeting at the Iikura Guest House in Tokyo on July 29, 2024 | AFP</em></p>

<p>For New Delhi, Jaishankar describes the Quad as an outcome of the "corrections that Indian foreign policy made after the Cold War," while underscoring the importance of shared values in forging lasting alliances.</p>

<h2><strong>4. Gratitude has a short shelf-life in global politics</strong></h2>

<p>The events of the Ramayana were set in motion by a promise—two boons that King Dashrath granted his wife Kaikeyi. When Kaikeyi invoked these boons to send Ram into exile and crown her son Bharata the king, it was a stark reminder of how trust can be misused.</p>

<p>Jaishankar reflects on this lesson in the context of India’s relationship with China. India's support for China’s permanent seat at the UN Security Council in the 1950s was reciprocated with a military attack by Beijing in 1962.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In diplomacy, Jaishankar notes, gratitude has a short shelf-life.</p>

<h2><strong>5. The quest for total security is futile</strong></h2>

<p>Ravana was given the boon of invincibility by the creator Brahma.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But he invoked the boon only towards the entities he deemed as threats: <em>devas, gandharvas, asuras, kinnars, nagas and rakshasas</em> — all but human beings. It was for this reason that Lord Vishnu took a human form as Lord Ram, to kill Ravana.</p>

<p>Jaishankar argues that Ravana's behavioural characteristics show the attitude of those who feel wronged by history.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xis-further-grip-on-power-at-china-communist-party-meet-will-make-him-another-mao-427948">Xi's further grip on power at China Communist Party meet will make him another Mao</a></strong></p>

<p>"He is badgered by his advisers to regain their dominant status in Lanka, a land that was once ruled by his maternal grandfather Sumali," Jaishankar notes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar argues that Ravana’s story serves as a cautionary tale for both entrenched and rising powers.</p>

<p>"Ravana consequently begins by displacing his elder brother Kuber, who comes from a different stock. But it then becomes an endless quest, powered by a sense of entitlement and absence of restraint. There are important learnings here for entrenched and rising powers alike, both in charting a path and in managing their ambitions. Total security will always be a fruitless quest."</p>


"Ram is not conflict but resolution," said Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya earlier this year. This sentiment is echoed in External Affairs Minister Dr.

"Ram is not conflict but resolution," said Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya earlier this year. This sentiment is echoed in External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar's book, 'Why Bharat Matters', which was released just weeks before the Ayodhya event. In his book, Jaishankar explores how the Hindu epic Ramayana offers fundamental insights for India's foreign policy. People watch a screen as India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially consecrates the Ram temple, in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024 | AFP Jaishankar suggests that the story of Lord Ram reflects the journey of a rising power, like India, that harmonises its national interests with a commitment to the global good. Here’s a breakdown of what might be called Jaishankar’s 'Ramayana Doctrine' in five key lessons: 1. Nations mature through demonstration of strength Before Lord Ram became a central figure among warriors, he and his brother Lakshman faced several challenges. First, Ram defeated the demoness Tataka, followed by more formidable foes like Maricha and Subahu. Only after overcoming these adversaries did Ram string Shiva’s divine bow in the Kingdom of Mithila, securing his marriage to Sita. Jaishankar, while describing 'a transformational decade' (2014-2024), adds that, for countries as well as people, major tests are often preceded by earlier experiences of a significant nature. In modern terms, India’s emergence on the world stage can be seen through similar milestones—whether it was winning the war for the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971, the 1998 nuclear tests, or the 2019 Balakot airstrikes. Each of these events showcased India's strength and maturity as a rising power. India's military intervention in erstwhile East Pakistan facilitated the creation of Bangladesh in 1971; India in 1998 successfully conducted nuclear tests in Rajasthan's Pokhran | X/@ashokgehlot51; Press Information Bureau Yet, achieving a state of Ram Rajya—a rules-based order—on India's terms will require navigating resistance from established powers. As Jaishankar notes, "Swimming upstream is the karma of all rising powers." 2. Building alliances is essential for achieving national goals To rescue Sita from the clutches of the Lankan King Ravana, Lord Ram did not act alone. He relied on the support of his brother Lakshman and his devoted follower, Hanuman. These alliances were crucial in gaining the support of others, like the Monkey King Sugriva and the Bear King Jambavan, as well as Vibheeshana, Ravana’s brother. Jaishankar draws a parallel here while emphasising the importance of allies for a rising power like India. "Those with larger ambitions must develop reliable partners and assured sources of support," he writes. As of 21 February 2022, India had delivered 162.9 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines to 96 countries — of which, 14.3 million doses were gifted to 98 countries; Jaishankar argues that even in the domain of global politics, every Ram needs a Lakshman, "someone trustworthy and vigilant who will share both successes and sorrows" | AFP Citing the examples of India's vaccine diplomacy during Covid pandemic and African Union's inclusion in G20 during New Delhi G20 Leaders' Summit, the external affairs minister argues that India's constituencies of support are expanding across the world. 3. The power of shared values should not be underestimated After being exiled on the eve of his coronation, Ram encountered his half-brother Bharata, who had been favoured in his place. The episode is solemnised as Bharata Milaap in popular culture. Despite their differing interests, the bond among the four brothers—Ram, Bharata, Lakshman, and Shatrughan—remained strong. This unity, despite tensions, was a testament to their shared values. Similarly, the Quadrilateral Security Alliance or Quad —India, Australia, Japan, and the United States—consists of nations with distinct interests but a strong commitment to democratic values. (L to R) India's External Affairs Minister Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Japan's Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken after the Quad Ministerial Meeting at the Iikura Guest House in Tokyo on July 29, 2024 | AFP For New Delhi, Jaishankar describes the Quad as an outcome of the "corrections that Indian foreign policy made after the Cold War," while underscoring the importance of shared values in forging lasting alliances. 4. Gratitude has a short shelf-life in global politics The events of the Ramayana were set in motion by a promise—two boons that King Dashrath granted his wife Kaikeyi. When Kaikeyi invoked these boons to send Ram into exile and crown her son Bharata the king, it was a stark reminder of how trust can be misused. Jaishankar reflects on this lesson in the context of India’s relationship with China. India's support for China’s permanent seat at the UN Security Council in the 1950s was reciprocated with a military attack by Beijing in 1962. In diplomacy, Jaishankar notes, gratitude has a short shelf-life. 5. The quest for total security is futile Ravana was given the boon of invincibility by the creator Brahma. But he invoked the boon only towards the entities he deemed as threats: devas, gandharvas, asuras, kinnars, nagas and rakshasas — all but human beings. It was for this reason that Lord Vishnu took a human form as Lord Ram, to kill Ravana. Jaishankar argues that Ravana's behavioural characteristics show the attitude of those who feel wronged by history. Also read | Xi's further grip on power at China Communist Party meet will make him another Mao "He is badgered by his advisers to regain their dominant status in Lanka, a land that was once ruled by his maternal grandfather Sumali," Jaishankar notes. Jaishankar argues that Ravana’s story serves as a cautionary tale for both entrenched and rising powers. "Ravana consequently begins by displacing his elder brother Kuber, who comes from a different stock. But it then becomes an endless quest, powered by a sense of entitlement and absence of restraint. There are important learnings here for entrenched and rising powers alike, both in charting a path and in managing their ambitions. Total security will always be a fruitless quest."

Jaishankar’s Ramayana doctrine: Five-point guide for India's global leadership ambition

<p>In this digital world, nothing can stay a secret. Nitesh Tiwari's&nbsp;<em>Ramayana</em>&nbsp;is the next anticipated project, that we all are looking forward to. The shooting of the movie kicked off earlier this month in Mumbai, India, and now the first photos of the lead pair Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi from the film set are out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The behind-the-scenes photos that have set the internet ablaze show&nbsp;Ranbir and Sai as Hindu deities Lord Rama and Sita. In the photos, they are decked up in resplendent costumes.</p>

<p>The set of photos showed Ranbir and Sai shooting for the magnum opus. In the photos, bare-chest Ranbir is donning a brown-colour dhoti with a heavy shawl and jewellery as he spotted long locks. Meanwhile, Sai is dressed in a brown and golden saree.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-confirmed-kalki-2898-ad-to-release-in-june-check-out-exact-date-and-new-poster-715710">Confirmed! Kalki 2898 AD to release in June: Check out exact date and new poster</a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BoycottBollywood?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BoycottBollywood</a><br />
<br />
This Big Beef Guy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanbirKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanbirKapoor</a> is casted for Maryadapuroshottam Prabhu Shree Ram 's role in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ramayana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ramayana</a> which is an upcoming movie.<br />
<br />
Shameless creatures!<br />
<br />
I think it will also be like as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Adipurush?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Adipurush</a> so I consider it as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Adipurush2?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Adipurush2</a> <a href="https://t.co/iVUkVH36KM">pic.twitter.com/iVUkVH36KM</a></p>
— Socialscript (@Suryascript) <a href="https://twitter.com/Suryascript/status/1784454176669667746?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The leaked photos, which&nbsp;have&nbsp;shown the actors taking a stroll against the backdrop of a grand palace&nbsp;have garnered immense praise from the cinephiles across the different social media platforms.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">No offense,<br />
But I am missing natural smile of Lord Ram in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanbirKapoor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanbirKapoor</a>.<br />
It looks like forced smile. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ramayana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ramayana</a><br />
<br />
Just look at natural God level smile of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AkshayKumar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AkshayKumar</a> as Lord Krishna 🪶 <a href="https://t.co/g3Wn9gqtGo">pic.twitter.com/g3Wn9gqtGo</a></p>
— M A 𝕏 A L U 🗡️ (@YourMasalu) <a href="https://twitter.com/YourMasalu/status/1784109869286703449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Satisfied with the costume, look, and sets 👌🏻<br />
This is just 360P quality leaked still<br />
A lot more work in the post-production part<br />
<br />
Can't wait for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YashBOSS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YashBOSS</a> avatar as Ravana<br />
Look at his moustache in the recent pic 🔥 😬<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ramayana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ramayana</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TheNameIsYash?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheNameIsYash</a> <a href="https://t.co/ED3ytRWDOn">pic.twitter.com/ED3ytRWDOn</a></p>
— 𝗦𝗵𝗿𝗲𝘆𝗶 ᵀᵒˣᶦᶜ (@NameIsShreyash) <a href="https://twitter.com/NameIsShreyash/status/1784115462915387523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>A few days ago, photos of Lara Dutta, who is essaying the role of Kaikeyi, and veteran actor Arun Govil as Dashrath, the King of Ayodhya, went viral from the set of the movie.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/fardeen-khan-reveals-he-was-rejected-by-sanjay-leela-bhansali-in-the-early-2000s-715420">Fardeen Khan reveals he was rejected by Sanjay Leela Bhansali in the early 2000s</a></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Lara Dutta, Sheeba Chaddha &amp; Arun Govil with the junior artists in the sets of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ramayana?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ramayana</a> <a href="https://t.co/tmikNU7cwo">pic.twitter.com/tmikNU7cwo</a></p>
— Arjun (@ArjanVelli) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArjanVelli/status/1775897078927085863?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>More about Ramayana</strong></p>

<p>Director Nitesh Tiwari's <em>Ramayana </em>has been one of the most discussed movies right now. Apart from Sai and Ranbir,&nbsp;the movie also has actor Yash on board. He will portray Ravana in the epic saga. If reports are to be believed, actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol will play the roles of Lord Hanuman and Kumbhkaran, respectively. Actor Vijay Sethupathi is also reported to be part of the movie.</p>

<p>Recently, internationally acclaimed music composer Hanz Zimmer has been roped in for the magnum opus. He will collaborate with Indian music maestro AR Rahman for the film.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ranbir was last seen in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's<em> Animal.</em> Released on December 1, 2023, the movie was a huge box office hit, earning over Rs 8 billion.</p>


In this digital world, nothing can stay a secret. Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana is the next anticipated project, that we all are looking forward to. The shooting of the movie kicked off earlier this month in Mumbai, India, and now the first photos of the lead pair Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi from the film set are out.

In this digital world, nothing can stay a secret. Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana is the next anticipated project, that we all are looking forward to. The shooting of the movie kicked off earlier this month in Mumbai, India, and now the first photos of the lead pair Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi from the film set are out. The behind-the-scenes photos that have set the internet ablaze show Ranbir and Sai as Hindu deities Lord Rama and Sita. In the photos, they are decked up in resplendent costumes. The set of photos showed Ranbir and Sai shooting for the magnum opus. In the photos, bare-chest Ranbir is donning a brown-colour dhoti with a heavy shawl and jewellery as he spotted long locks. Meanwhile, Sai is dressed in a brown and golden saree. Confirmed! Kalki 2898 AD to release in June: Check out exact date and new poster #BoycottBollywood This Big Beef Guy #RanbirKapoor is casted for Maryadapuroshottam Prabhu Shree Ram 's role in #Ramayana which is an upcoming movie. Shameless creatures! I think it will also be like as #Adipurush so I consider it as #Adipurush2 pic.twitter.com/iVUkVH36KM — Socialscript (@Suryascript) April 28, 2024 × The leaked photos, which have shown the actors taking a stroll against the backdrop of a grand palace have garnered immense praise from the cinephiles across the different social media platforms. No offense, But I am missing natural smile of Lord Ram in #RanbirKapoor. It looks like forced smile. #Ramayana Just look at natural God level smile of #AkshayKumar as Lord Krishna 🪶 pic.twitter.com/g3Wn9gqtGo — M A 𝕏 A L U 🗡️ (@YourMasalu) April 27, 2024 × Satisfied with the costume, look, and sets 👌🏻 This is just 360P quality leaked still A lot more work in the post-production part Can't wait for the #YashBOSS avatar as Ravana Look at his moustache in the recent pic 🔥 😬#Ramayana @TheNameIsYash pic.twitter.com/ED3ytRWDOn — 𝗦𝗵𝗿𝗲𝘆𝗶 ᵀᵒˣᶦᶜ (@NameIsShreyash) April 27, 2024 × A few days ago, photos of Lara Dutta, who is essaying the role of Kaikeyi, and veteran actor Arun Govil as Dashrath, the King of Ayodhya, went viral from the set of the movie. Fardeen Khan reveals he was rejected by Sanjay Leela Bhansali in the early 2000s Lara Dutta, Sheeba Chaddha & Arun Govil with the junior artists in the sets of #Ramayana pic.twitter.com/tmikNU7cwo — Arjun (@ArjanVelli) April 4, 2024 × More about Ramayana Director Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana has been one of the most discussed movies right now. Apart from Sai and Ranbir, the movie also has actor Yash on board. He will portray Ravana in the epic saga. If reports are to be believed, actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol will play the roles of Lord Hanuman and Kumbhkaran, respectively. Actor Vijay Sethupathi is also reported to be part of the movie. Recently, internationally acclaimed music composer Hanz Zimmer has been roped in for the magnum opus. He will collaborate with Indian music maestro AR Rahman for the film. Meanwhile, Ranbir was last seen in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Animal. Released on December 1, 2023, the movie was a huge box office hit, earning over Rs 8 billion.

First photos out! Ranbir Kapoor and Sai Pallavi’s mystic looks for Nitish Tiwari's Ramayana revealed

<p>Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Ranbir Kapoor has started his intense prep session for his forthcoming film <em>Ramayana</em>, in which he is set to play the lead role of Lord Ram. To channel the essence of the revered Hindu deity, the actor is taking swimming and hiking lessons along with weight training.</p>

<p>Ranbir's personal trainer Nam recently took to social media to share give glimpses of Kapoor's intense workout session. In the video, the actor is seen lifting weights, trekking, biking, swimming, and jogging. Ranbir is leaving no stone unturned to get in the best shape for the role and the now-viral clip is a testament to his commitment to his craft.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While sharing the video on Instagram, Ranbir's personal trainer Nam wrote, "Went to the countryside for a decompression week. WIP with Ranbir."</p>

<p>Check out the viral video below!</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5gApJEIvj8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5gApJEIvj8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5gApJEIvj8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C5gApJEIvj8/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Training With Nam (@trainingwithnam)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<p>Reacting to the video, a fan wrote, "Hiking as a part of his training programme for the prep of <em>Ramayana</em>. This guy knows exactly what he’s doing and how to make it happen right. Looking forward to his emotional transformation."</p>

<p>Another user commented, "We know RK’s going to kill it (fire emoji) Alia and Raha’s cameos in this video are the cutest thing ever." A third comment read, "Ram ji's character is in safe hand... Can't wait for Ramayana."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hyderabad-origin-actress-avantika-vandanapu-named-south-asian-person-of-the-year-by-harvard-709345">Hyderabad-origin actress Avantika Vandanapu named South Asian Person of the Year by Harvard</a></strong></p>

<p>Ranbir was last seen in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's <em>Animal</em>, which turned out to be a blockbuster. He will reprise his role in the sequel, <em>Animal Park</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Coming back to <em>Ramayana</em>, rumours are rife that Sai Pallavi will play Goddess Sita and Yash will portray Ravana in the film. Some reports also suggest that Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol are being considered for the roles of Lord Hanuman and Kumbhkaran, respectively. Moreover, speculations surrounding Vijay Sethupathi being considered for the role of Vibhishan have sparked excitement among cinephiles.</p>


Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Ranbir Kapoor has started his intense prep session for his forthcoming film Ramayana, in which he is set to play the lead role of Lord Ram.

Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Ranbir Kapoor has started his intense prep session for his forthcoming film Ramayana, in which he is set to play the lead role of Lord Ram. To channel the essence of the revered Hindu deity, the actor is taking swimming and hiking lessons along with weight training. Ranbir's personal trainer Nam recently took to social media to share give glimpses of Kapoor's intense workout session. In the video, the actor is seen lifting weights, trekking, biking, swimming, and jogging. Ranbir is leaving no stone unturned to get in the best shape for the role and the now-viral clip is a testament to his commitment to his craft. While sharing the video on Instagram, Ranbir's personal trainer Nam wrote, "Went to the countryside for a decompression week. WIP with Ranbir." Check out the viral video below! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Training With Nam (@trainingwithnam) Reacting to the video, a fan wrote, "Hiking as a part of his training programme for the prep of Ramayana. This guy knows exactly what he’s doing and how to make it happen right. Looking forward to his emotional transformation." Another user commented, "We know RK’s going to kill it (fire emoji) Alia and Raha’s cameos in this video are the cutest thing ever." A third comment read, "Ram ji's character is in safe hand... Can't wait for Ramayana." Also read: Hyderabad-origin actress Avantika Vandanapu named South Asian Person of the Year by Harvard Ranbir was last seen in Sandeep Reddy Vanga's Animal, which turned out to be a blockbuster. He will reprise his role in the sequel, Animal Park. Coming back to Ramayana, rumours are rife that Sai Pallavi will play Goddess Sita and Yash will portray Ravana in the film. Some reports also suggest that Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol are being considered for the roles of Lord Hanuman and Kumbhkaran, respectively. Moreover, speculations surrounding Vijay Sethupathi being considered for the role of Vibhishan have sparked excitement among cinephiles.

Ranbir Kapoor's fitness routine for Ramayana decoded! Actor takes swimming, hiking lessons to play Lord Ram

<p>This is huge! If multiple reports are to be believed, Nitesh Tiwari's<em> Ramayana</em>- which stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, has roped in internationally acclaimed music composer Hanz Zimmer to compose for the film. Zimmer will be making his Bollywood debut with the film and will collaborate with another Oscar winner, music maestro AR Rahman for the film.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
For those coming in late, Hans Zimmer is known for his work in films like <em>The Lion King, Man of Steel, Interstellar, Dark Knight Trilogy </em>and <em>Inception</em>, and <em>Dune</em> among others.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Hans Zimmer to debut in India with Ramayana?</strong><br />
<br />
According to a report in Pinkvilla, Zimmer has given his nod to the project as he is fascinated by the vision for the story that Tiwari is narrating of Lord Ram.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A source told the portal, “Hans Zimmer is gearing up to make his debut in the Indian film industry with Ramayana. Namit Malhotra and Nitesh Tiwari have always been vocal about their global vision for this Indian epic and they are leaving no stone unturned to make that a reality. Hans Zimmer is also fascinated by the vision for the story of Lord Ram and is all ready to compose the score of Ramayana."</p>

<p><a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/6-films-and-shows-inspired-by-the-ramayana-1705763897740" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/6-films-and-shows-inspired-by-the-ramayana-1705763897740&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwigh_egsauFAxVJZmwGHT7oB1MQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2lZGPxrMPFu218yMB0Orsm&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/6-films-and-shows-inspired-by-the-ramayana-1705763897740" target="_blank">6 Films And Shows Inspired By The&nbsp;<b>Ramayana</b></a><br />
<br />
The source said that the music of <em>Ramayana</em> is composed by AR Rahman, adding, “It’s a match made in heaven. Two global talents are set to team up for the present India’s story to the world."</p>

<p><strong>About Ramayana the film</strong><br />
<br />
Nitesh Tiwari's film has been in the news right from the time of its inception. The film is being touted as the most expensive&nbsp;in Indian cinema. It has Ranbir Kapoor playing Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Yash as Ravana. Lara Dutta has been roped in to play the role of Lord Ram’s step-mother Kaikeyi and Sheeba Chaddha will play the role of Manthara, who is said to be the one who convinced Kaikeyi that the throne of Ayodhya belonged to her son Bharat and that her step-son Ram should be exiled from the kingdom.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-ranbir-kapoor-starrer-ramayana-begins-filming-viral-pic-suggests-film-on-floor-707287">Ranbir Kapoor starrer Ramayana begins filming? Viral pic suggests film on floor</a><br />
<br />
The first part of the<em> Ramayana</em> trilogy is presently on floors and the film may release around Diwali 2025.&nbsp;</p>


This is huge! If multiple reports are to be believed, Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana- which stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, has roped in internationally acclaimed music composer Hanz Zimmer to compose for the film.

This is huge! If multiple reports are to be believed, Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana- which stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, has roped in internationally acclaimed music composer Hanz Zimmer to compose for the film. Zimmer will be making his Bollywood debut with the film and will collaborate with another Oscar winner, music maestro AR Rahman for the film. For those coming in late, Hans Zimmer is known for his work in films like The Lion King, Man of Steel, Interstellar, Dark Knight Trilogy and Inception, and Dune among others. Hans Zimmer to debut in India with Ramayana? According to a report in Pinkvilla, Zimmer has given his nod to the project as he is fascinated by the vision for the story that Tiwari is narrating of Lord Ram. A source told the portal, “Hans Zimmer is gearing up to make his debut in the Indian film industry with Ramayana. Namit Malhotra and Nitesh Tiwari have always been vocal about their global vision for this Indian epic and they are leaving no stone unturned to make that a reality. Hans Zimmer is also fascinated by the vision for the story of Lord Ram and is all ready to compose the score of Ramayana." 6 Films And Shows Inspired By The Ramayana The source said that the music of Ramayana is composed by AR Rahman, adding, “It’s a match made in heaven. Two global talents are set to team up for the present India’s story to the world." About Ramayana the film Nitesh Tiwari's film has been in the news right from the time of its inception. The film is being touted as the most expensive in Indian cinema. It has Ranbir Kapoor playing Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman and Yash as Ravana. Lara Dutta has been roped in to play the role of Lord Ram’s step-mother Kaikeyi and Sheeba Chaddha will play the role of Manthara, who is said to be the one who convinced Kaikeyi that the throne of Ayodhya belonged to her son Bharat and that her step-son Ram should be exiled from the kingdom. Ranbir Kapoor starrer Ramayana begins filming? Viral pic suggests film on floor The first part of the Ramayana trilogy is presently on floors and the film may release around Diwali 2025.

Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana will have Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer's score: Reports

<p>After much to and fro, Nitesh Tiwari’s <em>Ramayana</em> is finally on floors. The film which stars Ranbir Kapoor in the leading role has begun production as one picture from the film set is now going viral.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The picture went on floors on April 3 as a picture from what looks like a magnificent set went viral. The person who shared the picture captioned it Ramayana Day 1. An Instagram user named Akruti Singh shared pictures from the sets on her Instagram story. It is believed that Akruti is a part of the film team.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The <em>Ramayana</em> set appeared to be in the construction phase, featuring numerous pillars and wooden walls, obscuring much of the view. What we can make out however is the temple-like dome structure.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Viral set picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="298bf13c-6edd-4cc1-814d-61b1c83bb97b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/HORIZONS%20-%202024-04-03T165227.094.jpg" /></p>

<h2><strong>What we know about Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana</strong></h2>

<p>Since the topic touches a lot of nerves, no formal announcements regarding the cast and crew of the film have been made as of now. Ranbir Kapoor is speculated to play Lord Ram. He is yet to join the crew. A report by India Today suggests that he will join the crew in a few days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-crew-2-coming-up-kriti-sanon-responds-to-news-about-a-possible-sequel-706977">Crew 2 coming up? Kriti Sanon responds to news about a possible sequel</a></p>

<p>Before they began work on the film, sources claim that Nitesh Tiwari and team did a small pooja ceremony on the set. Reportedly, Sai Pallavi will play Sita in the film.</p>

<p>There are also rumours that Kubbra Sait had auditioned to play Ravana’s sister, Surpanakha, in the film. There is no surety whether this did happen or not.&nbsp;</p>


After much to and fro, Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is finally on floors. The film which stars Ranbir Kapoor in the leading role has begun production as one picture from the film set is now going viral.

After much to and fro, Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana is finally on floors. The film which stars Ranbir Kapoor in the leading role has begun production as one picture from the film set is now going viral. The picture went on floors on April 3 as a picture from what looks like a magnificent set went viral. The person who shared the picture captioned it Ramayana Day 1. An Instagram user named Akruti Singh shared pictures from the sets on her Instagram story. It is believed that Akruti is a part of the film team. The Ramayana set appeared to be in the construction phase, featuring numerous pillars and wooden walls, obscuring much of the view. What we can make out however is the temple-like dome structure. What we know about Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana Since the topic touches a lot of nerves, no formal announcements regarding the cast and crew of the film have been made as of now. Ranbir Kapoor is speculated to play Lord Ram. He is yet to join the crew. A report by India Today suggests that he will join the crew in a few days. Also read: Crew 2 coming up? Kriti Sanon responds to news about a possible sequel Before they began work on the film, sources claim that Nitesh Tiwari and team did a small pooja ceremony on the set. Reportedly, Sai Pallavi will play Sita in the film. There are also rumours that Kubbra Sait had auditioned to play Ravana’s sister, Surpanakha, in the film. There is no surety whether this did happen or not.

Ranbir Kapoor starrer Ramayana begins filming? Viral pic suggests film on floor

Our correspondent Siddhant Sibbal talks to Thailand's Ambassador to India about how Ramayana and Ayodhya connect India and Thailand in many ways. Watch the video to know more.

Thailand Ambassador to India Hongtong talks to WION about cultural connect between India & Thailand

<p>Not just the majestic Ram Temple, the holy city of Ayodhya promises to offer tourists and devotees a deeper insight into the rich heritage of Hinduism and the regional culture and traditions, along with lessons in nature conservation. As per recent media reports, a grand “Ramayana Spiritual Forest” is being developed in the holy city along the banks of the holy Saryu River.</p>

<p>This will be an ecological forest, showcasing the lifestyle of lord Ram during the 14 years of exile and the rich tapestry of the Ramayana.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sarayu river along with Lord Ram, Ramayana and Ayodhya have been an inevitable part of Hinduism. The proposed spiritual forest is an extension of the riverfront designed to be an eco-friendly forest developed on the theme of Ramayana, specifically depicting Shri Ram's journey during the Vanvaas (exhile) period," Dikshu Kukreja, the master planner of the Ayodhya redevelopment project, was quoted as saying by PTI news agency.</p>

<h2><strong>Ayodhya’s comprehensive development programme</strong></h2>

<p>The ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has promised to turn the holy city Ayodhya, considered the birthplace of lord Ram, into a major hub of religious tourism.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Security arrangements increased in Ayodhya</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-ram-mandir-security-arrangements-increased-in-ayodhya-677817/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>To realise this ambition, the government has unveiled a 10 year investment plan exceeding INR 85,000 crore ($10.25 billion), for the holy city.</p>

<h2><strong>Key aspects of the redevelopment programme</strong></h2>

<p>Key aspects of the redevelopment plan include creating impressive entry points named ‘Ram dwars’ with traditional stone facades.</p>

<p>Emphasis is also placed on establishing homestays and ‘dharamshalas’ for diverse accommodation options. The Ramayana spiritual forest, designed for a rich cultural experience, is under development through a public-private partnership (PPP) scheme.</p>

<p>The 'Bhraman Path,' a road project in Ayodhya, will link the Sarayu with the Ram temple, resembling the Kashi Vishwanath corridor in Varanasi. Currently, devotees use the Ram Path, Bhakti Path, and Janmabhoomi Path to reach the Ram Mandir. The introduction of the Bhraman Path aims to enhance the convenience for devotees.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/india-news/business-economy/pm-modi-launches-temple-cleanliness-drive-ahead-of-ayodhya-consecration-1705058935000"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi Launches Temple Cleanliness Drive Ahead of Ayodhya Consecration</strong></a></p>

<p>The initial phase of the Ayodhya Ram temple is nearing completion.&nbsp;PM Modi will&nbsp;participate&nbsp;in the consecration ceremony on January 22.</p>

<p>In a historic 2019 verdict, the Supreme Court settled a century-old temple-mosque dispute, supporting the construction of a Ram temple at the contested site and mandating the allocation of a five-acre plot for the construction of&nbsp;mosque.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Not just the majestic Ram Temple, the holy city of Ayodhya promises to offer tourists and devotees a deeper insight into the rich heritage of Hinduism and the regional culture and traditions, along with lessons in nature conservation.

Not just the majestic Ram Temple, the holy city of Ayodhya promises to offer tourists and devotees a deeper insight into the rich heritage of Hinduism and the regional culture and traditions, along with lessons in nature conservation. As per recent media reports, a grand “Ramayana Spiritual Forest” is being developed in the holy city along the banks of the holy Saryu River. This will be an ecological forest, showcasing the lifestyle of lord Ram during the 14 years of exile and the rich tapestry of the Ramayana. "Sarayu river along with Lord Ram, Ramayana and Ayodhya have been an inevitable part of Hinduism. The proposed spiritual forest is an extension of the riverfront designed to be an eco-friendly forest developed on the theme of Ramayana, specifically depicting Shri Ram's journey during the Vanvaas (exhile) period," Dikshu Kukreja, the master planner of the Ayodhya redevelopment project, was quoted as saying by PTI news agency. Ayodhya’s comprehensive development programme The ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has promised to turn the holy city Ayodhya, considered the birthplace of lord Ram, into a major hub of religious tourism. Watch: Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Security arrangements increased in Ayodhya × To realise this ambition, the government has unveiled a 10 year investment plan exceeding INR 85,000 crore ($10.25 billion), for the holy city. Key aspects of the redevelopment programme Key aspects of the redevelopment plan include creating impressive entry points named ‘Ram dwars’ with traditional stone facades. Emphasis is also placed on establishing homestays and ‘dharamshalas’ for diverse accommodation options. The Ramayana spiritual forest, designed for a rich cultural experience, is under development through a public-private partnership (PPP) scheme. The 'Bhraman Path,' a road project in Ayodhya, will link the Sarayu with the Ram temple, resembling the Kashi Vishwanath corridor in Varanasi. Currently, devotees use the Ram Path, Bhakti Path, and Janmabhoomi Path to reach the Ram Mandir. The introduction of the Bhraman Path aims to enhance the convenience for devotees. Also read: PM Modi Launches Temple Cleanliness Drive Ahead of Ayodhya Consecration The initial phase of the Ayodhya Ram temple is nearing completion. PM Modi will participate in the consecration ceremony on January 22. In a historic 2019 verdict, the Supreme Court settled a century-old temple-mosque dispute, supporting the construction of a Ram temple at the contested site and mandating the allocation of a five-acre plot for the construction of mosque. (With inputs from agencies)

Ayodhya to develop ‘Ramayana Forest’, offering glimpses into Lord Ram’s exile period

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidCvB8MC33kv9D" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>The Ayodhya Airport will be renamed 'Maharishi Valmiki Internation Airport' after the great Hindu sage who wrote the holy epic&nbsp;<em>Ramayana</em>, which consists of 24,000 verses. Maharishi Valmiki is also known as&nbsp;<em>Adi Kavi</em>, meaning first poet in Sanskrit. He has also written&nbsp;<em>Yoga Vasistha,</em>&nbsp;a scripture that explains philosophical issues.</p>

<h2><strong>Story of Valmiki</strong></h2>

<p>Maharishi Valmiki was born to Rishi (Sage) Prachetasa in&nbsp;<em>Treta Yug</em>&nbsp;(the second of the four yugas in Hinduism, during which three Avatars of Lord Vishnu were born) as Ratnakara. When he was young, he got lost in the forest, and a hunter took him under his care. Following in his footsteps, Ratnakara became an excellent hunter and married a beautiful woman. However, as his family grew, it became difficult for him to feed them, and he turned to robbery.</p>

<p>One day, Ratnakara attacked Naradamuni (a famous sage) as he crossed the jungle. Narada played the Veena and prayed to Lord Vishnu. Ratnakar's cruelty melted as he saw the devotion in Narada's eyes. Then, Narada introduced him to the holy name of Lord Ram and asked him to meditate on it until the time Narada came back.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-ayodhya-airport-to-be-renamed-maharishi-valmiki-international-airport-ahead-of-inauguration-674591">Ayodhya Airport to be renamed 'Maharishi Valmiki International Airport' ahead of inauguration</a></p>

<p>Several years later, when Narada returned, Ratnakara's body was covered with anthills (a nest in the form of a mound built by ants). Narada told him that his penance paid off, bestowing him with the title of Brahmarishi. He was given the name Valmiki as he was reborn from&nbsp;<em>Valmika</em>&nbsp;(anthills).</p>

<p>Maharishi Valmiki set his ashram on the banks of the river Ganga. One day, Narada visited the ashram and narrated the story of Lord Ram. Later, Lord Brahma instructed him in his sleep to write Ramayana in&nbsp;<em>shlokas</em>&nbsp;(verses).</p>

<h2><strong>Valmiki's Role In Ramayana</strong></h2>

<p>Not only did Maharishi Valmiki write Ramayana, but he was a part of it. During his 14-year exile in the forest, one day, Lord Ram visited Valmiki's ashram with his wife, Sita, and younger brother, Lakshman. At Valmiki's request, Lord Ram built his hut near his ashram on Chitrakoot hill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Lord Ram sent Sita to the forest, she took shelter in Valmiki's ashram. She also gave birth to her twins, Lava and Kusha, at Valmiki's ashram. Once, Maharishi Valmiki took the boys to Ayodhya, where Lord Ram heard them sing the song Valmiki composed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Ayodhya Airport will be renamed 'Maharishi Valmiki Internation Airport' after the great Hindu sage who wrote the holy epic Ramayana, which consists of 24,000 verses.

The Ayodhya Airport will be renamed 'Maharishi Valmiki Internation Airport' after the great Hindu sage who wrote the holy epic Ramayana, which consists of 24,000 verses. Maharishi Valmiki is also known as Adi Kavi, meaning first poet in Sanskrit. He has also written Yoga Vasistha, a scripture that explains philosophical issues. Story of Valmiki Maharishi Valmiki was born to Rishi (Sage) Prachetasa in Treta Yug (the second of the four yugas in Hinduism, during which three Avatars of Lord Vishnu were born) as Ratnakara. When he was young, he got lost in the forest, and a hunter took him under his care. Following in his footsteps, Ratnakara became an excellent hunter and married a beautiful woman. However, as his family grew, it became difficult for him to feed them, and he turned to robbery. One day, Ratnakara attacked Naradamuni (a famous sage) as he crossed the jungle. Narada played the Veena and prayed to Lord Vishnu. Ratnakar's cruelty melted as he saw the devotion in Narada's eyes. Then, Narada introduced him to the holy name of Lord Ram and asked him to meditate on it until the time Narada came back. ALSO READ | Ayodhya Airport to be renamed 'Maharishi Valmiki International Airport' ahead of inauguration Several years later, when Narada returned, Ratnakara's body was covered with anthills (a nest in the form of a mound built by ants). Narada told him that his penance paid off, bestowing him with the title of Brahmarishi. He was given the name Valmiki as he was reborn from Valmika (anthills). Maharishi Valmiki set his ashram on the banks of the river Ganga. One day, Narada visited the ashram and narrated the story of Lord Ram. Later, Lord Brahma instructed him in his sleep to write Ramayana in shlokas (verses). Valmiki's Role In Ramayana Not only did Maharishi Valmiki write Ramayana, but he was a part of it. During his 14-year exile in the forest, one day, Lord Ram visited Valmiki's ashram with his wife, Sita, and younger brother, Lakshman. At Valmiki's request, Lord Ram built his hut near his ashram on Chitrakoot hill. When Lord Ram sent Sita to the forest, she took shelter in Valmiki's ashram. She also gave birth to her twins, Lava and Kusha, at Valmiki's ashram. Once, Maharishi Valmiki took the boys to Ayodhya, where Lord Ram heard them sing the song Valmiki composed. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was Maharishi Valmiki, a Hindu sage after whom Ayodhya Airport is being renamed?

<p>We wonder what ensued between the makers and Alia Bhatt but the latter is no longer part of Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious project, <em>Ramayana</em>. According to several reports, the project has hit a roadblock yet again and it will no longer kick off in December this year. It was earlier reported that Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor and <em>KGF</em> star Yash have been roped in for pivotal roles in the film. It was later revealed that a crucial test shoot was scheduled in Mumbai by the end of July to ensure the authenticity of the set’s appearance.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ramayana to kickstart in 2024</strong></h2>

<p>Pre-production activities were in full swing, and the film was set to kick off in December this year. However, new reports suggest that there is a slight&nbsp;change in the timeline of <em>Ramayana.</em>&nbsp;Since the film has to be in three parts, the makers want to be sure with the cast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-paresh-rawal-opens-up-on-iconic-role-of-baburao-in-hera-pheri-reveals-when-hera-pheri-3-will-release-628692">Paresh Rawal opens up on iconic role of Baburao in Hera Pheri, reveals when Hera Pheri 3 will release</a></p>

<h2><strong>Alia Bhatt no longer a part of Ramayana</strong></h2>

<p>An insider quoted in a Pinkvilla report said, "It's understandable that a magnum opus like <em>Ramayana</em> requires time and intense pre-production work, as they are going into the smallest details of everything to get it right on screen. Which is why things are progressing at a slower pace. Also, as far as the casting is concerned, Ranbir Kapoor is still committed to playing Lord Ram, while Alia Bhatt - who was approached for the project - is no longer part of it. The actress was in talks for the role of Goddess Sita, but the collaboration didn’t work out because of date issues.”</p>

<p>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-jawan-advance-bookings-cross-rs-1-crore-in-us-srks-film-set-for-rs-100-crore-on-first-day-628616">Jawan advance bookings cross $10 million in US, SRK's film set for $1 billion on first day</a></p>

<h2><strong>Yash likely to play Raavan</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, <em>KGF </em>star Yash has been a frontrunner for the role of Raavan. There have been rumours that the star is not positive about the role but the insider claims there is no truth to these rumours. “The look test has already happened with Yash, and the conversation has progressed positively. The makers are optimistic about getting him on board, but he has not yet signed. Yash is also committed to National Award-winning director Geethu Mohandas for a big-scale action thriller, so his casting in the Ramayana depends on what he prioritises," the source said.</p>

<p><em>Ramayana</em> will be helmed by directors Nitesh Tiwari and Ravi Udhyawar. It will be produced by Madhu Mantena and Namit Malhotra.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here.</a></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


We wonder what ensued between the makers and Alia Bhatt but the latter is no longer part of Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious project, Ramayana. According to several reports, the project has hit a roadblock yet again and it will no longer kick off in December this year.

We wonder what ensued between the makers and Alia Bhatt but the latter is no longer part of Nitesh Tiwari’s ambitious project, Ramayana. According to several reports, the project has hit a roadblock yet again and it will no longer kick off in December this year. It was earlier reported that Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor and KGF star Yash have been roped in for pivotal roles in the film. It was later revealed that a crucial test shoot was scheduled in Mumbai by the end of July to ensure the authenticity of the set’s appearance. Ramayana to kickstart in 2024 Pre-production activities were in full swing, and the film was set to kick off in December this year. However, new reports suggest that there is a slight change in the timeline of Ramayana. Since the film has to be in three parts, the makers want to be sure with the cast. Also read: Paresh Rawal opens up on iconic role of Baburao in Hera Pheri, reveals when Hera Pheri 3 will release Alia Bhatt no longer a part of Ramayana An insider quoted in a Pinkvilla report said, "It's understandable that a magnum opus like Ramayana requires time and intense pre-production work, as they are going into the smallest details of everything to get it right on screen. Which is why things are progressing at a slower pace. Also, as far as the casting is concerned, Ranbir Kapoor is still committed to playing Lord Ram, while Alia Bhatt - who was approached for the project - is no longer part of it. The actress was in talks for the role of Goddess Sita, but the collaboration didn’t work out because of date issues.” Also read: Jawan advance bookings cross $10 million in US, SRK's film set for $1 billion on first day Yash likely to play Raavan Meanwhile, KGF star Yash has been a frontrunner for the role of Raavan. There have been rumours that the star is not positive about the role but the insider claims there is no truth to these rumours. “The look test has already happened with Yash, and the conversation has progressed positively. The makers are optimistic about getting him on board, but he has not yet signed. Yash is also committed to National Award-winning director Geethu Mohandas for a big-scale action thriller, so his casting in the Ramayana depends on what he prioritises," the source said. Ramayana will be helmed by directors Nitesh Tiwari and Ravi Udhyawar. It will be produced by Madhu Mantena and Namit Malhotra. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Alia Bhatt walks out of Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana, Ranbir Kapoor still a part of it

United Kingdom Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attended a Ramayana recitation by spiritual leader Murari Bapu at Cambridge University. Sunak, while attending the recitation, said that he was not there as the UK PM but as Hindu.

UK PM Rishi Sunak attends Ramayana recitation, says 'Not here as PM but a Hindu'

<p>The timeless relevance that Indian mythological epics like the <em>Ramayana</em> have, lies in their profound exploration of the human psyche. As long as humanity exists, these narratives will continue to evolve and impact people worldwide. The <em>Ramayana</em>, to this day, serves as a moral compass for a global audience, shaping perspectives and influencing the way we think.</p>

<p>The original version of the text written by legendary poet Valmiki is a tale of protagonist Rama, the son of King Dasaratha of Ayodhya, who at the behest of his stepmother, Kaikeyi, endures a painful exile of 14 years. Together with his beloved wife Sita and loyal stepbrother Lakshmana, they establish their humble abode amidst the vastness of the forest.</p>

<p>However, their peaceful existence is shattered when Sita is cruelly abducted by Ravana, the formidable demon King of Lanka. Through arduous trials and tribulations, finally, on a sacred new moon night, he emerges triumphant against all odds. It is a victory of good over evil, as always.</p>

<p>However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the original version of the <em>Ramayana</em> written by Valmiki, marginalised female characters, depriving them of agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To address this, we must engage in transformative storytelling — a concept known as revisionist mythmaking. By reimagining these stories and infusing them with fresh perspectives, we can create new narratives that provide powerful insights into gender and women's roles in history and culture.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Here we touch on a malevolent and crucial character in Valmiki’s <em>Ramayana</em>, called Surpanakha. She is the sister of Ravana, the evil king of Lanka and the central antagonist in the epic. She derives her name ‘Surpanakha’ from her distinctive feature of razor-sharp fingernails or nails resembling winnowing fans.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Throughout the years, there have been various adaptations of the <em>Ramayana</em> with the most popular being Indian film director, Ramanand Sagar’s rendition of the epic in 1987.</p>

<p>Sagar's portrayal of Surpanakha in the Indian epic Ramayana (1987) is crafted as a diabolical character with a demonic shriek and hypersexual attributes, encapsulating the idiosyncratic traits of a classic 'rakshasi' or demoness.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
With each passing year, the televised rendition of this timeless saga has witnessed a noticeable improvement in video quality. However, the essence and fundamental nature of the characters have remained unaltered. Surpanakha has consistently maintained her sinister persona, while Sita has retained her revered status as an embodiment of devotion and selfless sacrifice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most female characters in Indian mythology, primarily in the canonical texts are bracketed into two extremes — good and evil, victim and sinner, the immoral or the innocent. Valmiki’s <em>Ramayana</em> follows the same straight-jacketed approach of portraying Surpanakha as the cultural ‘other’.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-adipurush-box-office-collection-film-witnesses-major-slump-on-day-7-607853"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Adipurush box office collection: Film witnesses major slump on day 7</strong></a><br />
<br />
Hop skip to 2023 and we choose to sit in a movie theatre and watch Indian cinema’s same repetitive representation of the Ramayana dubbed as <em>Adipurush </em>with a flashy dose of VFX.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
What we actually need now is a revisionist lens, a means to look past the solidified traits of this tainted character.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="PIC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b874f649-a34a-4143-8ffe-7792d26ef558" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20%287%29.jpg" /></p>

<p><em><strong>Indian children dressed as Hindu deities Rama and Sita. Photo credit: Pixabay</strong></em></p>

<h2><strong>The ‘asura’ vs’ non asura’ debate</strong></h2>

<p>Valmiki’s <em>Ramayana</em>, translated in English by Bibek Debroy, makes a clear distinction between the Aryan and the non-Aryan race in the following verses.<br />
<br />
“On seeing someone who was like Indra, the <em>rakshasi</em> was flooded with desire. The one with the disagreeable face faced Rama, the one with the agreeable face. The one with a giant stomach faced the slender-waisted one, the one with malformed eyes faced the one with large eyes, the one with copper-coloured hair faced the one with excellent hair, the one with an ugly form faced the one with a handsome form, the one with a horrible voice faced the one with a pleasant voice, the hideous and ugly one faced the young one, the one who was harsh in speech faced the one who was sweet in speech, the one who was extremely wicked in conduct faced the one who was good in conduct, the ugly one faced the handsome one.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the years, numerous revisionist writers have made efforts to dismantle the false and misogynistic portrayal of Surpanakha by reimagining her from a feminist perspective. Adrienne Rich, a contributor to feminist revisionist mythology, defines "revision" as the act of retrospectively examining an existing text in order to reimagine it in a manner previously overlooked within patriarchal narratives.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Similarly, authors such as Sarah Joseph, Kavita Kane, and Kathleen M. Erndl endeavoured to redefine Surpanakha's flawed character as depicted in Valmiki's version of the <em>Ramayana</em>. Through their works, they delve deeper into the complexities of disfigurement, female sexuality, and self-assertion, shedding fresh light on these aspects.</p>

<h2><strong>Marginalisation of Surpanakha</strong></h2>

<p>Kavita Kane's book, titled <em>Lanka's Princess,</em> explores the inherently gendered and hierarchical familial space that Surpanakha inhabits. Here Surpanakha faces double marginalisation within her own household. Her own mother, Kaikesi, harbours dislike towards her for being a dark-skinned girl. In Kane's narrative, Kaikesi remarks, "How is this dark monkey going to bring us good fortune?" This highlights how Surpanakha is pushed to the peripheries both due to her gender and her skin tone.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Living under the shadow of her powerful brothers - Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Vibhishana - Surpanakha is compelled to suppress .her individuality and true character. Kane's narrative empowers Surpanakha with a unique and compelling voice. In her story, Surpanakha transforms her limitations into possibilities. She becomes assertive and strong-willed and disbunks patriarchal norms that attach negative connotations to assertive women.</p>

<h2><strong>Mutilation of Surpanakha</strong></h2>

<p>The disfigurement of Surpanakha marks a significant turning point in the <em>Ramayana</em>, as it sets the stage for subsequent developments in the plot. In Valmiki's <em>Ramayana</em>, when she encounters Ram and becomes infatuated with his charm, she implores him to accept her as his beloved. However, Ram rejects her. This infuriates Surpanakha, leading her to attack Sita. In response, Rama’s brother Lakshmana forcefully drags her by the hair and mutilates her by cutting off her ears and nose.</p>

<p><img alt="picture" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58c0543f-ba67-441a-b809-c8a2a232e80b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20battle%20for%20Kyiv%20%2814%29.png" /></p>

<p><strong><em>A still from Indian director, Ramanand Sagar's Ramayana (1987) in which Surpanakha attacks Sita. Photo credit: YouTube</em></strong></p>

<p>In many vernacular versions, her breasts were also mutilated as they were a symbol of femininity. Kathleen M. Erndl, in her article, “Mutilation of Surpanakha," elaborates on how Surpanakha was instigated by both Ram and Lakshman who ridiculed her unapologetic expression of sexuality.&nbsp;Erndl explores the societal dichotomy between chastity and overt sexuality by examining the characters of Sita and Surpanakha.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Sita is depicted as pure, auspicious, and subservient, while Surpanakha is portrayed as evil, dark, and impure. This binary is influenced by the Manu Smriti, which states that a woman should be obedient and protected by her father in youth, her husband in married life, and her sons in old age, emphasising the importance of a woman's dependence. Surpanakha, with her strong and independent personality, becomes a significant threat to the patriarchal order due to her overt sexuality.</p>

<p>Revisioning is also what author Volga in her book, <em>The Liberation of Sita</em>,&nbsp;does. She dedicates a whole chapter to the encounter between Sita and Surpanakha that takes place in a forest where the former engages in a conversation with the latter, who has transformed her life in the forest and cultivated a beautiful garden, symbolising her own beauty. She has managed to overcome her anger and adversaries, channelling her pain into the creation of a masterpiece in her garden as a coping mechanism against the insults hurled at her. Through this interaction, Surpanakha teaches Sita that she can have an independent existence and not be confined to the shadow of Rama.</p>

<h2><strong>Bidding farewell to the ‘male gaze’</strong></h2>

<p>The Ramayana narrative has long been shaped by male dominance, perpetuating the elevation of male characters over their female counterparts. However, new writings, fresh perspectives and a view that is uncoloured by any prejudices is bringing about a powerful movement that is driven by the need to challenge this status quo and engage with the often ignored women of this epic tale.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It's time to unveil these forgotten heroines and let them helm their powerful stories and that can only be achieved by a revisionist lens through which writers can look at new perspectives and rewrite accounts that have been entrenched in history and mythology.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em><strong>(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>


The timeless relevance that Indian mythological epics like the Ramayana have, lies in their profound exploration of the human psyche. As long as humanity exists, these narratives will continue to evolve and impact people worldwide.

The timeless relevance that Indian mythological epics like the Ramayana have, lies in their profound exploration of the human psyche. As long as humanity exists, these narratives will continue to evolve and impact people worldwide. The Ramayana, to this day, serves as a moral compass for a global audience, shaping perspectives and influencing the way we think. The original version of the text written by legendary poet Valmiki is a tale of protagonist Rama, the son of King Dasaratha of Ayodhya, who at the behest of his stepmother, Kaikeyi, endures a painful exile of 14 years. Together with his beloved wife Sita and loyal stepbrother Lakshmana, they establish their humble abode amidst the vastness of the forest. However, their peaceful existence is shattered when Sita is cruelly abducted by Ravana, the formidable demon King of Lanka. Through arduous trials and tribulations, finally, on a sacred new moon night, he emerges triumphant against all odds. It is a victory of good over evil, as always. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that the original version of the Ramayana written by Valmiki, marginalised female characters, depriving them of agency. To address this, we must engage in transformative storytelling — a concept known as revisionist mythmaking. By reimagining these stories and infusing them with fresh perspectives, we can create new narratives that provide powerful insights into gender and women's roles in history and culture. Here we touch on a malevolent and crucial character in Valmiki’s Ramayana, called Surpanakha. She is the sister of Ravana, the evil king of Lanka and the central antagonist in the epic. She derives her name ‘Surpanakha’ from her distinctive feature of razor-sharp fingernails or nails resembling winnowing fans. Throughout the years, there have been various adaptations of the Ramayana with the most popular being Indian film director, Ramanand Sagar’s rendition of the epic in 1987. Sagar's portrayal of Surpanakha in the Indian epic Ramayana (1987) is crafted as a diabolical character with a demonic shriek and hypersexual attributes, encapsulating the idiosyncratic traits of a classic 'rakshasi' or demoness. With each passing year, the televised rendition of this timeless saga has witnessed a noticeable improvement in video quality. However, the essence and fundamental nature of the characters have remained unaltered. Surpanakha has consistently maintained her sinister persona, while Sita has retained her revered status as an embodiment of devotion and selfless sacrifice. Most female characters in Indian mythology, primarily in the canonical texts are bracketed into two extremes — good and evil, victim and sinner, the immoral or the innocent. Valmiki’s Ramayana follows the same straight-jacketed approach of portraying Surpanakha as the cultural ‘other’. ALSO READ | Adipurush box office collection: Film witnesses major slump on day 7 Hop skip to 2023 and we choose to sit in a movie theatre and watch Indian cinema’s same repetitive representation of the Ramayana dubbed as Adipurush with a flashy dose of VFX. What we actually need now is a revisionist lens, a means to look past the solidified traits of this tainted character. Indian children dressed as Hindu deities Rama and Sita. Photo credit: Pixabay The ‘asura’ vs’ non asura’ debate Valmiki’s Ramayana, translated in English by Bibek Debroy, makes a clear distinction between the Aryan and the non-Aryan race in the following verses. “On seeing someone who was like Indra, the rakshasi was flooded with desire. The one with the disagreeable face faced Rama, the one with the agreeable face. The one with a giant stomach faced the slender-waisted one, the one with malformed eyes faced the one with large eyes, the one with copper-coloured hair faced the one with excellent hair, the one with an ugly form faced the one with a handsome form, the one with a horrible voice faced the one with a pleasant voice, the hideous and ugly one faced the young one, the one who was harsh in speech faced the one who was sweet in speech, the one who was extremely wicked in conduct faced the one who was good in conduct, the ugly one faced the handsome one.” Over the years, numerous revisionist writers have made efforts to dismantle the false and misogynistic portrayal of Surpanakha by reimagining her from a feminist perspective. Adrienne Rich, a contributor to feminist revisionist mythology, defines "revision" as the act of retrospectively examining an existing text in order to reimagine it in a manner previously overlooked within patriarchal narratives. Similarly, authors such as Sarah Joseph, Kavita Kane, and Kathleen M. Erndl endeavoured to redefine Surpanakha's flawed character as depicted in Valmiki's version of the Ramayana. Through their works, they delve deeper into the complexities of disfigurement, female sexuality, and self-assertion, shedding fresh light on these aspects. Marginalisation of Surpanakha Kavita Kane's book, titled Lanka's Princess, explores the inherently gendered and hierarchical familial space that Surpanakha inhabits. Here Surpanakha faces double marginalisation within her own household. Her own mother, Kaikesi, harbours dislike towards her for being a dark-skinned girl. In Kane's narrative, Kaikesi remarks, "How is this dark monkey going to bring us good fortune?" This highlights how Surpanakha is pushed to the peripheries both due to her gender and her skin tone. Living under the shadow of her powerful brothers - Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Vibhishana - Surpanakha is compelled to suppress .her individuality and true character. Kane's narrative empowers Surpanakha with a unique and compelling voice. In her story, Surpanakha transforms her limitations into possibilities. She becomes assertive and strong-willed and disbunks patriarchal norms that attach negative connotations to assertive women. Mutilation of Surpanakha The disfigurement of Surpanakha marks a significant turning point in the Ramayana, as it sets the stage for subsequent developments in the plot. In Valmiki's Ramayana, when she encounters Ram and becomes infatuated with his charm, she implores him to accept her as his beloved. However, Ram rejects her. This infuriates Surpanakha, leading her to attack Sita. In response, Rama’s brother Lakshmana forcefully drags her by the hair and mutilates her by cutting off her ears and nose. A still from Indian director, Ramanand Sagar's Ramayana (1987) in which Surpanakha attacks Sita. Photo credit: YouTube In many vernacular versions, her breasts were also mutilated as they were a symbol of femininity. Kathleen M. Erndl, in her article, “Mutilation of Surpanakha," elaborates on how Surpanakha was instigated by both Ram and Lakshman who ridiculed her unapologetic expression of sexuality. Erndl explores the societal dichotomy between chastity and overt sexuality by examining the characters of Sita and Surpanakha. Sita is depicted as pure, auspicious, and subservient, while Surpanakha is portrayed as evil, dark, and impure. This binary is influenced by the Manu Smriti, which states that a woman should be obedient and protected by her father in youth, her husband in married life, and her sons in old age, emphasising the importance of a woman's dependence. Surpanakha, with her strong and independent personality, becomes a significant threat to the patriarchal order due to her overt sexuality. Revisioning is also what author Volga in her book, The Liberation of Sita, does. She dedicates a whole chapter to the encounter between Sita and Surpanakha that takes place in a forest where the former engages in a conversation with the latter, who has transformed her life in the forest and cultivated a beautiful garden, symbolising her own beauty. She has managed to overcome her anger and adversaries, channelling her pain into the creation of a masterpiece in her garden as a coping mechanism against the insults hurled at her. Through this interaction, Surpanakha teaches Sita that she can have an independent existence and not be confined to the shadow of Rama. Bidding farewell to the ‘male gaze’ The Ramayana narrative has long been shaped by male dominance, perpetuating the elevation of male characters over their female counterparts. However, new writings, fresh perspectives and a view that is uncoloured by any prejudices is bringing about a powerful movement that is driven by the need to challenge this status quo and engage with the often ignored women of this epic tale. It's time to unveil these forgotten heroines and let them helm their powerful stories and that can only be achieved by a revisionist lens through which writers can look at new perspectives and rewrite accounts that have been entrenched in history and mythology. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian mythology in a revisionist mould: Ramayana’s Surpanakha reimagined

<p>Popular 90’s TV actor Gajendra Chauhan, who played the role of Yudhishthir in BR Chopra’s<em> Mahabharat,</em> recently gave his two cents’ on what he thinks of <em>Adipurush</em> and he didn’t have anything good to say about it. Calling for a ban of the film, Gajendra Chauhan said that people have already punished the filmmaker by rejecting the film. He added that they deserved the punishment and they should be punished.</p>

<h2><strong>'The film shouldn't have been released': Gajendra Chauhan</strong></h2>

<p>Gajendra said, "This film should not have been released at all. The entire film should be banned. The government should immediately put a stop to it." He revealed that he made a decision of not watching <em>Adipurush </em>after seeing the trailer. "I don't want to compromise my beliefs. I want to see Lord Ram as Lord Shri Ram,” he said at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gajendra is an actor and former Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) chairman. He did not go to watch despite having a ticket for the same. People have been criticising the makers for its untimely and poorly written dialogues and shoddy screenplay. VFX and cinematography are something that people are showing appreciation for.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'No use changing dialogues': Gajendra Chauhan</strong></h2>

<p>Talking about the revised dialogues in <em>Adipurush</em>, penned by Manoj Muntashir, Gajendra said that it is of no use as the damage has already been done. Gajendra said that the writer has introduced ignorance to the world and that he really has no knowledge. He also said that Manoj has added dialogues taken from several videos of writers circulating on social media, combined it and presented it as if he has written everything.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-watch-adipurush-controversial-dialogue-changed-leaked-edited-video-goes-viral-607250">WATCH | Adipurush controversial dialogue changed, edited video leaked, goes viral</a></p>

<p><em>Adipurush</em> is based on the Hindu epic Ramayana. Prabhas, Kriti Sanon and Saif Ali Khan play the main roles in the mega-budget film. It looks like the film will not be able to break even with this poor response.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here.</a></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Popular 90’s TV actor Gajendra Chauhan, who played the role of Yudhishthir in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, recently gave his two cents’ on what he thinks of Adipurush and he didn’t have anything good to say about it.

Popular 90’s TV actor Gajendra Chauhan, who played the role of Yudhishthir in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, recently gave his two cents’ on what he thinks of Adipurush and he didn’t have anything good to say about it. Calling for a ban of the film, Gajendra Chauhan said that people have already punished the filmmaker by rejecting the film. He added that they deserved the punishment and they should be punished. 'The film shouldn't have been released': Gajendra Chauhan Gajendra said, "This film should not have been released at all. The entire film should be banned. The government should immediately put a stop to it." He revealed that he made a decision of not watching Adipurush after seeing the trailer. "I don't want to compromise my beliefs. I want to see Lord Ram as Lord Shri Ram,” he said at the time. Gajendra is an actor and former Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) chairman. He did not go to watch despite having a ticket for the same. People have been criticising the makers for its untimely and poorly written dialogues and shoddy screenplay. VFX and cinematography are something that people are showing appreciation for. 'No use changing dialogues': Gajendra Chauhan Talking about the revised dialogues in Adipurush, penned by Manoj Muntashir, Gajendra said that it is of no use as the damage has already been done. Gajendra said that the writer has introduced ignorance to the world and that he really has no knowledge. He also said that Manoj has added dialogues taken from several videos of writers circulating on social media, combined it and presented it as if he has written everything. WATCH | Adipurush controversial dialogue changed, edited video leaked, goes viral Adipurush is based on the Hindu epic Ramayana. Prabhas, Kriti Sanon and Saif Ali Khan play the main roles in the mega-budget film. It looks like the film will not be able to break even with this poor response. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mahabharat actor Gajendra Chauhan wants government to ban Adipurush

<p>Filmmaker Om Raut's highly anticipated <em>Adipurush</em> has been in the news ever since the film's first look came out in 2022. There have been debates, discussions and controversies around the film's casting and implementation of the epic on the big screen. <em>Adipurush</em> is based on Valmiki's Ramayan, an epic that almost all Indians have grown up reading, watching, or listening to. This is why it becomes difficult to adapt such a well-known story (and exhaustive) into a three-hour film. Does it do justice? Read on to find out.</p>

<p>The story is a known one and Raut, who also serves as the writer of the film, starts off the film where Raghav (Prabhas), Janaki (Kriti Sanon), and Shesh (Sunny Singh) are living in exile. The story also has Lankesh (Saif Ali Khan) who abducts Janaki after his sister Surpanakha faces insult at the hands of Shesh and Raghav. How Raghav and Shesh along with loyal aide Bajrang (Devdatta Nage) and an army of monkeys to wage a war against Lankesh to bring back Janaki forms the rest of the story.</p>

<p>If you set aside the fact that the story is a well-known one and one that you have seen being adapted on screen before, Raut's <em>Adipurush</em> delivers a visual extravaganza. Especially the introduction scene of Lankesh and Raghav. Some may find the depiction of Raavan, aka Lankesh, outlandish, but Raut's interpretation of the antagonist seems interesting.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/scNmYjoR-qM" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Experimenting with the characters of Ram and Sita is risky in today's time. After all, they are considered sacred in India and given godly status. And so Raut takes copious amounts of artistic liberty to reinvent the character of Raavan. The result is GOT's Khal Drogo-meets-Bhansali's Khilji-esque Raavan. With the help of CGI, which helps Khan appear double his size, Lankesh sports a grunge look with a spike hairdo and blue eyes. He is always dressed in black leather and sports a menacing look on his face. His choice of transport is a creature who is a cross between a dragon and Pterodactyl. In fact, Raut borrows heavily from pop culture.</p>

<p>In Prabhas' intro scene, he fights skeletal-faced flying creatures which remind you of dementors from <em>Harry Potter. Adipurush</em> carries plenty of references from&nbsp;<em>Game of Thrones,</em> <em>Harry Potter,</em> and even <em>The Flash.</em></p>

<p><em><img alt="f" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72fff9ac-8a0e-4ee3-8467-7626af317dff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Your%20paragraph%20text%20-%202023-06-16T152337.765.jpg" /></em></p>

<p>Despite a very CGI-enabled premise, the first half is a stretch and you are impatient to move to the actual battle scene. It serves well in the second half and is implemented in an elaborate manner and that's when Adipurush really shines and becomes a visual spectacle.</p>

<p><strong>The makers also play to the gallery. You know that some of the lines have been written to draw in cheers and claps in the film theatres. Some of the dialogues include-&nbsp;"<em>Jo hamari behno ko hath lagayenge, unki lanka laga denge”</em> (We will burn down homes if you trouble our sisters)," "<em>Kapda tere baap ka, tel tere baap ka, jalegi bhi tere baap ki,</em>"(will burn down father's kingdom and ego)&nbsp;"<em>Tu Jaanta hai mera baap kaun hai? (You know who's my father?)</em>"&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Since it has so much VFX,&nbsp;I did feel it limited the scope of performance for the actors. Prabhas looks his part&nbsp;and has limited dialogues, but looms large throughout the film. Similarly, Sanon looks stunning as Sita yet hardly has much scope to act considering her limited screen time and dialogues. Sunny Singh as Laxman has his moments and so does Devdatta Nage as Bajrang.</p>

<p>Vatsal Seth as Indrajit shows spark in his role but the film easily has Saif Ali Khan stealing the show with his evil act as Lankesh. His character is the most fleshed out and Khan doesn't disappoint with his interpretation.</p>

<p><img alt="y" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f06d916c-0b9d-4fcf-8cbd-d1b5b54adfe8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Your%20paragraph%20text%20-%202023-06-16T152320.524.jpg" /></p>

<p>For purists, <em>Adipurush</em> may appear too experimental as it interprets a few crucial moments of Ramayana in a new way. But if you look at it as a stand-alone film, it tells a story about good vs evil effectively mostly.</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/critically-speaking-is-prabhas-starrer-adipurush-worth-the-hype-605320/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">It isn't the best film in terms of VFX but serves an audience that perhaps has never watched the Ramanand Sagar version on TV. Let's just say it revises and refreshes your basic knowledge of the epic, and gives you a grunge-looking Raavan.</div>

<p>Should you be watching <em>Adipurush</em>? You sure will, even if this review discourages you to, no?&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Filmmaker Om Raut's highly anticipated Adipurush has been in the news ever since the film's first look came out in 2022. There have been debates, discussions and controversies around the film's casting and implementation of the epic on the big screen.

Filmmaker Om Raut's highly anticipated Adipurush has been in the news ever since the film's first look came out in 2022. There have been debates, discussions and controversies around the film's casting and implementation of the epic on the big screen. Adipurush is based on Valmiki's Ramayan, an epic that almost all Indians have grown up reading, watching, or listening to. This is why it becomes difficult to adapt such a well-known story (and exhaustive) into a three-hour film. Does it do justice? Read on to find out. The story is a known one and Raut, who also serves as the writer of the film, starts off the film where Raghav (Prabhas), Janaki (Kriti Sanon), and Shesh (Sunny Singh) are living in exile. The story also has Lankesh (Saif Ali Khan) who abducts Janaki after his sister Surpanakha faces insult at the hands of Shesh and Raghav. How Raghav and Shesh along with loyal aide Bajrang (Devdatta Nage) and an army of monkeys to wage a war against Lankesh to bring back Janaki forms the rest of the story. If you set aside the fact that the story is a well-known one and one that you have seen being adapted on screen before, Raut's Adipurush delivers a visual extravaganza. Especially the introduction scene of Lankesh and Raghav. Some may find the depiction of Raavan, aka Lankesh, outlandish, but Raut's interpretation of the antagonist seems interesting. Experimenting with the characters of Ram and Sita is risky in today's time. After all, they are considered sacred in India and given godly status. And so Raut takes copious amounts of artistic liberty to reinvent the character of Raavan. The result is GOT's Khal Drogo-meets-Bhansali's Khilji-esque Raavan. With the help of CGI, which helps Khan appear double his size, Lankesh sports a grunge look with a spike hairdo and blue eyes. He is always dressed in black leather and sports a menacing look on his face. His choice of transport is a creature who is a cross between a dragon and Pterodactyl. In fact, Raut borrows heavily from pop culture. In Prabhas' intro scene, he fights skeletal-faced flying creatures which remind you of dementors from Harry Potter. Adipurush carries plenty of references from Game of Thrones, Harry Potter, and even The Flash. Despite a very CGI-enabled premise, the first half is a stretch and you are impatient to move to the actual battle scene. It serves well in the second half and is implemented in an elaborate manner and that's when Adipurush really shines and becomes a visual spectacle. The makers also play to the gallery. You know that some of the lines have been written to draw in cheers and claps in the film theatres. Some of the dialogues include- "Jo hamari behno ko hath lagayenge, unki lanka laga denge” (We will burn down homes if you trouble our sisters)," "Kapda tere baap ka, tel tere baap ka, jalegi bhi tere baap ki,"(will burn down father's kingdom and ego) "Tu Jaanta hai mera baap kaun hai? (You know who's my father?)" Since it has so much VFX, I did feel it limited the scope of performance for the actors. Prabhas looks his part and has limited dialogues, but looms large throughout the film. Similarly, Sanon looks stunning as Sita yet hardly has much scope to act considering her limited screen time and dialogues. Sunny Singh as Laxman has his moments and so does Devdatta Nage as Bajrang. Vatsal Seth as Indrajit shows spark in his role but the film easily has Saif Ali Khan stealing the show with his evil act as Lankesh. His character is the most fleshed out and Khan doesn't disappoint with his interpretation. For purists, Adipurush may appear too experimental as it interprets a few crucial moments of Ramayana in a new way. But if you look at it as a stand-alone film, it tells a story about good vs evil effectively mostly. It isn't the best film in terms of VFX but serves an audience that perhaps has never watched the Ramanand Sagar version on TV. Let's just say it revises and refreshes your basic knowledge of the epic, and gives you a grunge-looking Raavan. Should you be watching Adipurush? You sure will, even if this review discourages you to, no? WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Adipurush review: Ramayana gets a VFX makeover

<p>Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena unveiled the Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple and laid the foundation stone for Meditation Centre at Ramayana fame Ashok Vatika site with an aim to attract more tourists from India and beyond.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Gunawardena, accompanied by Indian High Commissioner Gopal Bagalay and other dignitaries, issued the cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meditation centre, which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic Rramayana, will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/half-of-worlds-language-diversity-at-risk-says-study-585261">Half of world's language diversity at risk, frightening trends in some regions: Study</a></p>

<p>"H.E Prime Minister @DCRGunawardena accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic #ramayana. The Meditation Centre will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists from #India and other places," the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">H.E Prime Minister of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DCRGunawardena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCRGunawardena</a> accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple, (1/2) <a href="https://t.co/3YwAOYFqXP">pic.twitter.com/3YwAOYFqXP</a></p>
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL/status/1650060137116352513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Ashok Vatika is a garden in Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka) that is believed to have been the location where the demon king Ravana held Sita captive in the Hindu epic, Ramayana.</p>

<p>According to the story, Rama and his brother Lakshmana, along with their devotee Hanuman, went to Lanka to rescue Sita from Ravana's captivity. In the Ashok Vatika.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskyy-signs-law-banning-russian-place-names-in-ukraine-aims-to-restore-national-identity-585227">Zelensky signs law banning Russian place names in Ukraine, aims to restore national identity</a></p>

<p>The garden was named after the Ashoka tree, which is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is said that Hanuman uprooted the tree to show his strength.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-high-population-not-a-problem-says-manish-sabharwal-vc-teamlease-services-india-story-585212/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Today, there is a temple in Sri Lanka called the Seetha Amman Temple, which is believed to be located at the site of the Ashok Vatika. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Rama and Sita.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe></p>

<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena unveiled the Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple and laid the foundation stone for Meditation Centre at Ramayana fame Ashok Vatika site with an aim to attract more tourists from India and beyond.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena unveiled the Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple and laid the foundation stone for Meditation Centre at Ramayana fame Ashok Vatika site with an aim to attract more tourists from India and beyond. Prime Minister Gunawardena, accompanied by Indian High Commissioner Gopal Bagalay and other dignitaries, issued the cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka on Sunday. The meditation centre, which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic Rramayana, will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists. Also Read | Half of world's language diversity at risk, frightening trends in some regions: Study "H.E Prime Minister @DCRGunawardena accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic #ramayana. The Meditation Centre will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists from #India and other places," the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka tweeted. H.E Prime Minister of #SriLanka @DCRGunawardena accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple, (1/2) pic.twitter.com/3YwAOYFqXP — India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) April 23, 2023 × Ashok Vatika is a garden in Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka) that is believed to have been the location where the demon king Ravana held Sita captive in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. According to the story, Rama and his brother Lakshmana, along with their devotee Hanuman, went to Lanka to rescue Sita from Ravana's captivity. In the Ashok Vatika. Also Read | Zelensky signs law banning Russian place names in Ukraine, aims to restore national identity The garden was named after the Ashoka tree, which is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is said that Hanuman uprooted the tree to show his strength. Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story × Today, there is a temple in Sri Lanka called the Seetha Amman Temple, which is believed to be located at the site of the Ashok Vatika. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Rama and Sita. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sita temple at Sri Lanka's Ashok Vatika, linked to Hindu epic Ramayana, gets special cover

<p>A Muslim student named Mohammed Basith M surprised everyone with his deep knowledge of the Indian epic Ramayana in the town of Valanchery in Kerala. Although Ramayana is generally considered to be a significant part of Hindu mythology, the college student got almost all the questions right and even showed exemplary understanding of the verses. Basith’s knowledge was just not restricted to the questions as he effortless recited the verses from “Adhyatma Ramayanam”.</p>

<p>When asked about his favourite part of Ramayana, the student&nbsp;picked "Ayodhya Kanda" – which speaks about the worthlessness of kingdom and power – and even recited it effortlessly.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinkhole-in-chile-doubles-in-size-large-enough-to-swallow-frances-arc-de-triomphe-504685" hreflang="en">Sinkhole in Chile doubles in size, large enough to swallow France's Arc de Triomphe</a></p>

<p>Basith, however, is not familiar with the Sanskrit version and his knowledge comes from Adhyatma Ramayanam - the Malayalam version written by Thunchathu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan.</p>

<p>According to PTI, the quiz competition organised by major publishing house DC Books as part of the ongoing ‘Ramayana Month’ celebrations was won by Basith and his college mate-friend Mohammed Jabir P K. Both of them are currently students of KKSM Islamic and Arts College at Valanchery.</p>

<p>“All Indians must read and learn the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata as they are part of the country’s culture, tradition and history. I believe that it is our responsibility to learn and understand these texts,” Jabir told PTI in an interview after the win.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-met-police-strip-searched-kids-for-two-years-mostly-black-report-504759">UK’s Met Police strip-searched kids for two years, mostly black: Report</a></p>

<p>“Rama had to sacrifice even his kingdom to fulfil the promise to his beloved father Dasaratha. While living in a period of endless struggles for power, we should draw inspiration from characters like Rama and the message of epics like Ramayana,” the 22-year-old student added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE -</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


A Muslim student named Mohammed Basith M surprised everyone with his deep knowledge of the Indian epic Ramayana in the town of Valanchery in Kerala. Although Ramayana is generally considered to be a significant part of Hindu mythology, the college student got almost all the questions right and even showed exemplary understanding of the verses.

A Muslim student named Mohammed Basith M surprised everyone with his deep knowledge of the Indian epic Ramayana in the town of Valanchery in Kerala. Although Ramayana is generally considered to be a significant part of Hindu mythology, the college student got almost all the questions right and even showed exemplary understanding of the verses. Basith’s knowledge was just not restricted to the questions as he effortless recited the verses from “Adhyatma Ramayanam”. When asked about his favourite part of Ramayana, the student picked "Ayodhya Kanda" – which speaks about the worthlessness of kingdom and power – and even recited it effortlessly. Also read | Sinkhole in Chile doubles in size, large enough to swallow France's Arc de Triomphe Basith, however, is not familiar with the Sanskrit version and his knowledge comes from Adhyatma Ramayanam - the Malayalam version written by Thunchathu Ramanujan Ezhuthachan. According to PTI, the quiz competition organised by major publishing house DC Books as part of the ongoing ‘Ramayana Month’ celebrations was won by Basith and his college mate-friend Mohammed Jabir P K. Both of them are currently students of KKSM Islamic and Arts College at Valanchery. “All Indians must read and learn the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata as they are part of the country’s culture, tradition and history. I believe that it is our responsibility to learn and understand these texts,” Jabir told PTI in an interview after the win. Also read | UK’s Met Police strip-searched kids for two years, mostly black: Report “Rama had to sacrifice even his kingdom to fulfil the promise to his beloved father Dasaratha. While living in a period of endless struggles for power, we should draw inspiration from characters like Rama and the message of epics like Ramayana,” the 22-year-old student added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - (With inputs from agencies)

Two Muslim students win Ramayana quiz, say 'all Indians must learn the epics'

<p>India last week conferred Padma Award to two Indonesian nationals, Dr I. Wayan Dibia for art related to Ramayana and Mahabharata and Agus Indra Udayana for his work in promoting Gandhian values in the archipelago nation.</p>

<p>Both are based out of Bali, the only Hindu-majority province in Muslim-majority Indonesia.</p>

<p>Speaking to WION, Dr I. Wayan Dibia on the Indian government conferring him award said, "This is a very special award for me. It is out of my expectations. In my work, I work a lot in Ramayana and Mahabharata. I didn't expect this kind of recognition to be given by the Indian government."</p>

<p>He has created more than 150 new works on dance and dance dramas, mostly exploring both the Hindu Epics. Indian culture has impacted Bali since the fifth century and nine&nbsp;different art forms in the province utilising the epics.</p>

<p><strong>Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/padma-awards-2021-foreign-dignitaries-honoured-by-highest-civilian-awards-of-india-427702">Padma Awards 2021: Foreign dignitaries honoured by highest civilian awards of India</a></strong></p>

<p>He explained, "people of Bali are very familiar with Mahabharata and Ramayana. The people Java too. Java Bali are areas where Ramayana and Mahabharata are very important. That is the literature we use in my performing arts..To Bali people it's not just literature, it is Itihas, story of Gods, the journey of Gods, the philosophical way of life ".</p>

<p>Dibia is Bali's most influential Kecak Dancer, a traditional Indonesian art form depicting chapters of Ramayana. He has collaborated with Indian artists. In 2016, he worked with Indian dancers living in Toronto.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the other key Indonesian awardee is Agus Indra Udayana is the founder of Ashram Gandhi, Bali. The ashram gives scholarships to 45 students for education and life in Ashram follows "simplicity of Mahatma Gandhi".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-can-india-help-vietnam-in-the-disputed-south-china-sea-428966" hreflang="en">How can India help Vietnam in the disputed South China Sea?</a></strong></p>

<p>"It was a surprise for me...I say thank you to President Kovind and PM Modi" Udayana said, highlighting, "we should live very simple...Gandhi's idea's very simple.."</p>

<p>His Ashram has been visited by 2 Indonesian President has been to the Ashram-Megawati Sukarnoputri and Abdurrahman Wahid. Both of them also were honoured at the Indonesian embassy. &nbsp;Udayana and Dibia are Hindus by religion.</p>


India last week conferred Padma Award to two Indonesian nationals, Dr I. Wayan Dibia for art related to Ramayana and Mahabharata and Agus Indra Udayana for his work in promoting Gandhian values in the archipelago nation.

India last week conferred Padma Award to two Indonesian nationals, Dr I. Wayan Dibia for art related to Ramayana and Mahabharata and Agus Indra Udayana for his work in promoting Gandhian values in the archipelago nation. Both are based out of Bali, the only Hindu-majority province in Muslim-majority Indonesia. Speaking to WION, Dr I. Wayan Dibia on the Indian government conferring him award said, "This is a very special award for me. It is out of my expectations. In my work, I work a lot in Ramayana and Mahabharata. I didn't expect this kind of recognition to be given by the Indian government." He has created more than 150 new works on dance and dance dramas, mostly exploring both the Hindu Epics. Indian culture has impacted Bali since the fifth century and nine different art forms in the province utilising the epics. Also see | Padma Awards 2021: Foreign dignitaries honoured by highest civilian awards of India He explained, "people of Bali are very familiar with Mahabharata and Ramayana. The people Java too. Java Bali are areas where Ramayana and Mahabharata are very important. That is the literature we use in my performing arts..To Bali people it's not just literature, it is Itihas, story of Gods, the journey of Gods, the philosophical way of life ". Dibia is Bali's most influential Kecak Dancer, a traditional Indonesian art form depicting chapters of Ramayana. He has collaborated with Indian artists. In 2016, he worked with Indian dancers living in Toronto. Meanwhile, the other key Indonesian awardee is Agus Indra Udayana is the founder of Ashram Gandhi, Bali. The ashram gives scholarships to 45 students for education and life in Ashram follows "simplicity of Mahatma Gandhi". Also read | How can India help Vietnam in the disputed South China Sea? "It was a surprise for me...I say thank you to President Kovind and PM Modi" Udayana said, highlighting, "we should live very simple...Gandhi's idea's very simple.." His Ashram has been visited by 2 Indonesian President has been to the Ashram-Megawati Sukarnoputri and Abdurrahman Wahid. Both of them also were honoured at the Indonesian embassy. Udayana and Dibia are Hindus by religion.

Ramayana, Mahabharata, Gandhi connect to Indonesia's Padma awardees

<p>The Sri Lankan Consul General in Mumbai, Ambassador Dr&nbsp;Valsan, has called for more communication between provincial politicians of India and Sri Lanka that will "sort lot of misperceptions".</p>

<p>Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Dr. Valsan said, "We have a healthy communication channel between the top leadership and relevant institutions of India and Sri Lanka....I feel that other than traditional areas of connectivity, one important area that needs to be improved is the political connectivity at the provincial level."</p>

<p>India and Sri Lanka have had a lot of high-level engagements, including the recent visit of Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to the country. Sri Lanka is likely to host BIMSTEC summit later this year, and if it happens in person, Indian Prime Minister is expected to go to the country.</p>

<p>The Sri Lankan diplomat also talked about connecting the Ramayana trail between India and Sri Lanka. "If we can link up this Ramayana trail, with India and Sri Lanka trail this will enhance the connectivity between these two&nbsp;nations," he said.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> How do you see India Sri Lanka ties?&nbsp;What can be done to increase more interaction in the already substantive relationship?<br />
<strong>Ambassador Dr. Valsan:</strong> From Sri Lanka's point of view, we feel it's an excellent relationship;&nbsp;it has to be excellent relationship as it is more than 2400 years old, and over a period of time it has been built on common cultural and historic ties. Infact, Buddhism is the biggest link given to us by India.</p>

<p>More than anything else, in the contemporary period there is a large Indian footprint in the foreign direct investment in Sri Lanka,&nbsp;and our bilateral trade is around 4.5 billion dollars a year, out of which 84 per cent is Indian export to Sri Lanka. In tourism, largest arrival is from India, that is around 450 thousand tourists, that is around 18 per cent of total tourist arrival. Around 10 per cent of our GDP comes from tourism.</p>

<p>Many Sri Lankan students are studying in Indian universities, some with scholarships and&nbsp;some without them. Large number of Sri Lankan defense personnel are getting trained in India. Dream of every Buddhist in Sri Lanka is to pay homage at least once in a lifetime at pilgrimage sites in India.</p>

<p>In emergency situation, like the Tsunami in 2004 and the Covid pandemic, India was at our doorstep with assistance and large Indian origin community has been living in Sri Lanka for many generations and this includes my family too. Other than this, there are 14-15 thousand Indian expats connected with various activities happily living in Sri Lanka. I can go on and on, but this shows we have all the positive elements of a relationship, take it cultural, civilisational, economic or even geo strategic — we have all the elements intact.</p>

<p>So it has to be an excellent relationship and because of this we have India-first policy, when it comes to our foreign policy formulation. However, this doesn't mean our relationship is without any issues. There are issues, there is another dimension to the relationship, and that is transactional relationship. Whenever there is transactional relationship, it will have its own issues in our case — it has been happening ever since Indo Sri Lankan accord of 1987 under peculiar circumstances. Still, we are managing those issues, and moving forward.</p>

<p>Fortunately, we have a healthy communication channel between the top leadership and relevant institutions of India and Sri Lanka. Any bilateral relationship is always evolving and it depends on the various factors, especially geo strategic. Personally, I feel that other than traditional areas of connectivity, one important area that needs to be improved is the political connectivity at the provincial level. As of now,&nbsp;it's mostly confined to political connectivity to Delhi and Colombo because of protocol constraints, especially in India. Because of that, relationship very often becomes vulnerable to local and perceptional issues at the provincial level. As much as possible, relationship should be on broad based connectivity respecting each other's sovereignty, integrity and self-respect rather than formal agreements. Formal agreements are always vulnerable to perceptional issues. Since India is too big and powerful, I get a feeling that India has to be asymmetric in her attitude towards Sri Lanka rather than basing her relationship on reciprocities. So, asymmetry is the name of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> How can Mumbai be a launchpad for Sri Lankan investment into India and vice versa?<br />
<strong>Ambassador Dr. Valsan: </strong>As of now, there are a&nbsp;lot of Indian investments in Sri Lanka —&nbsp;large footprint. Already, there is economic activity between Sri Lanka and Mumbai. Most of the companies invested in Sri Lanka are Mumbai based, example, Primal glass, CEAT, TATA, ITC, Ultra Tech cement, Mahindra &amp; Mahindra and more. The footprint is very large. Now, Adani group has also come with $700 million investment in Colombo port. However, there are further opportunities, we have opened up three zones, one is 400 acres of land exclusively for pharma around Hambantota harbor and great opportunity for Indian investment, 300 acres of exclusive zone for textiles, and Mumbai being textile and pharma city, these two areas are something Indian investors should explore. Third area is urban development projects because all over Sri Lanka, we are in the process of restoring all heritage buildings and coming up with a lot of infra projects and I am sure Indian investors can have look at those areas.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> What about connectivity?<br />
<strong>Ambassador Dr. Valsan:</strong> Connectivity, as of now, widespread connectivity at traditional level, people to people level, as I said, it has to enhanced a bit. Connectivity should be at political level a lot, for example, for people like us based in Mumbai and Chennai there are&nbsp;lot of protocol constraints. So, I feel that communication should be at political level; the provincial politicians of India and Sri Lanka have to talk to each other and meet each other. That way, a lot of issues and misperceptions can be sorted out.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> When it comes to tourism, how are you planning to increase Indian tourism, especially from Mumbai, Maharashtra and that part of India?<br />
<strong>Ambassador Dr. Valsan:</strong> From Sir Lanka's point of view, we have a lot of plans.&nbsp;Other than traditional tourism, from Mumbai we thought we will focus on two aspects. One is the Ramayana trail, if you look at Valmiki Ramayana, more than 50 per cent of Ramayana happened in Sri Lanka and we have identified so many locations, that are connected with Ramayana. I don't say these are historically or&nbsp;archeologically true but these are beliefs of the people. These are based on legends of the local people. So, that is one area we thought of exploring and we thought we will be in touch with Hindu cultural organisations here and some of these institutions. We are going to present our case on Ramayana trail. I spoke to my high commissioner, even in India, central government is having Ramayana corridor. So if we can link up this Ramayana trail, with India and Sri Lanka trail, this will enhance the connectivity between these two nations. That is one area. Second area is Buddhist trail which has a lot of similarities. Even in India, a lot of interest is there in promoting the Buddhist sites, which will be very welcomed by the Sri Lankan Buddhist. As I said, each and every one of Buddhist is eagerly looking forward to come and visit sites in India, areas connected with Buddha's life. From our point of view, I thought, we will try to link up areas in Maharashtra with our heritage sites in Sri Lanka. We will give care.</p>

<p><strong>WION:&nbsp;</strong>Since Organic Fertilizer from India has passed lab tests and you plan to facilitate its procurement from India. Anything on that?<br />
<strong>Ambassador Dr. Valsan: </strong>Of course yes, we will for sure buy from India and that is one of the reasons we have done the lab test. Our state minister for agriculture has already announced that we have a large plan to procure from India but you know, the nuts and bolts of procurement, too early for me to say on it. Normally, this decision is taken at government level, if government&nbsp;asks us to intervene or facilitate things, the mission will be involved.</p>


The Sri Lankan Consul General in Mumbai, Ambassador Dr Valsan, has called for more communication between provincial politicians of India and Sri Lanka that will "sort lot of misperceptions".

The Sri Lankan Consul General in Mumbai, Ambassador Dr Valsan, has called for more communication between provincial politicians of India and Sri Lanka that will "sort lot of misperceptions". Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Dr. Valsan said, "We have a healthy communication channel between the top leadership and relevant institutions of India and Sri Lanka....I feel that other than traditional areas of connectivity, one important area that needs to be improved is the political connectivity at the provincial level." India and Sri Lanka have had a lot of high-level engagements, including the recent visit of Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to the country. Sri Lanka is likely to host BIMSTEC summit later this year, and if it happens in person, Indian Prime Minister is expected to go to the country. The Sri Lankan diplomat also talked about connecting the Ramayana trail between India and Sri Lanka. "If we can link up this Ramayana trail, with India and Sri Lanka trail this will enhance the connectivity between these two nations," he said. WION: How do you see India Sri Lanka ties? What can be done to increase more interaction in the already substantive relationship? Ambassador Dr. Valsan: From Sri Lanka's point of view, we feel it's an excellent relationship; it has to be excellent relationship as it is more than 2400 years old, and over a period of time it has been built on common cultural and historic ties. Infact, Buddhism is the biggest link given to us by India. More than anything else, in the contemporary period there is a large Indian footprint in the foreign direct investment in Sri Lanka, and our bilateral trade is around 4.5 billion dollars a year, out of which 84 per cent is Indian export to Sri Lanka. In tourism, largest arrival is from India, that is around 450 thousand tourists, that is around 18 per cent of total tourist arrival. Around 10 per cent of our GDP comes from tourism. Many Sri Lankan students are studying in Indian universities, some with scholarships and some without them. Large number of Sri Lankan defense personnel are getting trained in India. Dream of every Buddhist in Sri Lanka is to pay homage at least once in a lifetime at pilgrimage sites in India. In emergency situation, like the Tsunami in 2004 and the Covid pandemic, India was at our doorstep with assistance and large Indian origin community has been living in Sri Lanka for many generations and this includes my family too. Other than this, there are 14-15 thousand Indian expats connected with various activities happily living in Sri Lanka. I can go on and on, but this shows we have all the positive elements of a relationship, take it cultural, civilisational, economic or even geo strategic — we have all the elements intact. So it has to be an excellent relationship and because of this we have India-first policy, when it comes to our foreign policy formulation. However, this doesn't mean our relationship is without any issues. There are issues, there is another dimension to the relationship, and that is transactional relationship. Whenever there is transactional relationship, it will have its own issues in our case — it has been happening ever since Indo Sri Lankan accord of 1987 under peculiar circumstances. Still, we are managing those issues, and moving forward. Fortunately, we have a healthy communication channel between the top leadership and relevant institutions of India and Sri Lanka. Any bilateral relationship is always evolving and it depends on the various factors, especially geo strategic. Personally, I feel that other than traditional areas of connectivity, one important area that needs to be improved is the political connectivity at the provincial level. As of now, it's mostly confined to political connectivity to Delhi and Colombo because of protocol constraints, especially in India. Because of that, relationship very often becomes vulnerable to local and perceptional issues at the provincial level. As much as possible, relationship should be on broad based connectivity respecting each other's sovereignty, integrity and self-respect rather than formal agreements. Formal agreements are always vulnerable to perceptional issues. Since India is too big and powerful, I get a feeling that India has to be asymmetric in her attitude towards Sri Lanka rather than basing her relationship on reciprocities. So, asymmetry is the name of the game. WION: How can Mumbai be a launchpad for Sri Lankan investment into India and vice versa? Ambassador Dr. Valsan: As of now, there are a lot of Indian investments in Sri Lanka — large footprint. Already, there is economic activity between Sri Lanka and Mumbai. Most of the companies invested in Sri Lanka are Mumbai based, example, Primal glass, CEAT, TATA, ITC, Ultra Tech cement, Mahindra & Mahindra and more. The footprint is very large. Now, Adani group has also come with $700 million investment in Colombo port. However, there are further opportunities, we have opened up three zones, one is 400 acres of land exclusively for pharma around Hambantota harbor and great opportunity for Indian investment, 300 acres of exclusive zone for textiles, and Mumbai being textile and pharma city, these two areas are something Indian investors should explore. Third area is urban development projects because all over Sri Lanka, we are in the process of restoring all heritage buildings and coming up with a lot of infra projects and I am sure Indian investors can have look at those areas. WION: What about connectivity? Ambassador Dr. Valsan: Connectivity, as of now, widespread connectivity at traditional level, people to people level, as I said, it has to enhanced a bit. Connectivity should be at political level a lot, for example, for people like us based in Mumbai and Chennai there are lot of protocol constraints. So, I feel that communication should be at political level; the provincial politicians of India and Sri Lanka have to talk to each other and meet each other. That way, a lot of issues and misperceptions can be sorted out. WION: When it comes to tourism, how are you planning to increase Indian tourism, especially from Mumbai, Maharashtra and that part of India? Ambassador Dr. Valsan: From Sir Lanka's point of view, we have a lot of plans. Other than traditional tourism, from Mumbai we thought we will focus on two aspects. One is the Ramayana trail, if you look at Valmiki Ramayana, more than 50 per cent of Ramayana happened in Sri Lanka and we have identified so many locations, that are connected with Ramayana. I don't say these are historically or archeologically true but these are beliefs of the people. These are based on legends of the local people. So, that is one area we thought of exploring and we thought we will be in touch with Hindu cultural organisations here and some of these institutions. We are going to present our case on Ramayana trail. I spoke to my high commissioner, even in India, central government is having Ramayana corridor. So if we can link up this Ramayana trail, with India and Sri Lanka trail, this will enhance the connectivity between these two nations. That is one area. Second area is Buddhist trail which has a lot of similarities. Even in India, a lot of interest is there in promoting the Buddhist sites, which will be very welcomed by the Sri Lankan Buddhist. As I said, each and every one of Buddhist is eagerly looking forward to come and visit sites in India, areas connected with Buddha's life. From our point of view, I thought, we will try to link up areas in Maharashtra with our heritage sites in Sri Lanka. We will give care. WION: Since Organic Fertilizer from India has passed lab tests and you plan to facilitate its procurement from India. Anything on that? Ambassador Dr. Valsan: Of course yes, we will for sure buy from India and that is one of the reasons we have done the lab test. Our state minister for agriculture has already announced that we have a large plan to procure from India but you know, the nuts and bolts of procurement, too early for me to say on it. Normally, this decision is taken at government level, if government asks us to intervene or facilitate things, the mission will be involved.

More talks needed between India-SL provincial leaders: Lankan consul general in Mumbai

<p>She has played warrior queen Laxmibai in 'Manikarnika', she is played former CM of Tamil Nadu J Jayalalithaa in 'Thalaivii' and now Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut is all set to play Sita in her new film 'Incarnation of Sita'.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The actress announced her new project on Tuesday on Instagram. The film is going to be helmed by Alaukik Desai. It’s story is written by screenwriter KV Vijayendra Prasad. Kangana shared the first poster of the film and wrote, "The Incarnation- Sita Glad to be on board for the title role with this immensely talented team of artists.. With the blessings of Sita Ram Jai SiyaRam (sic)."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTy--KzskbQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTy--KzskbQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTy--KzskbQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTy--KzskbQ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kangana Thalaivii (@kanganaranaut)</a></p>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>The announcement comes days after the release of her new film 'Thalaivii' which received mixed responses from critics. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-thalaivii-review-arvind-swami-shines-as-mgr-kangana-ranaut-plays-herself-412068">Read WION's review of 'Thalaivii' here</a></p>

<p>Filmmaker Alaukik Desai said in a press statement, “Universe does help those who surrender to it with belief. What was a mirage, is now clear. A dream of a pious character never explored is now a reality. I am ecstatic to bring Kangana Ranaut on board as Sita. This pious journey will change the course of how we perceive our mythology. Thank you SS Studio for your immense support and belief.”</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-we-need-to-discourage-english-films-from-taking-over-our-screens-kangana-ranaut-to-wion-412061">Also see:&nbsp;We need to discourage English films from taking over our screens: Kangana Ranaut to WION</a></strong></p>

<p>Kangana also has 'Dhaakad' and 'Tejas' in the pipeline.</p>


She has played warrior queen Laxmibai in 'Manikarnika', she is played former CM of Tamil Nadu J Jayalalithaa in 'Thalaivii' and now Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut is all set to play Sita in her new film 'Incarnation of Sita'.

She has played warrior queen Laxmibai in 'Manikarnika', she is played former CM of Tamil Nadu J Jayalalithaa in 'Thalaivii' and now Bollywood star Kangana Ranaut is all set to play Sita in her new film 'Incarnation of Sita'. The actress announced her new project on Tuesday on Instagram. The film is going to be helmed by Alaukik Desai. It’s story is written by screenwriter KV Vijayendra Prasad. Kangana shared the first poster of the film and wrote, "The Incarnation- Sita Glad to be on board for the title role with this immensely talented team of artists.. With the blessings of Sita Ram Jai SiyaRam (sic)." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kangana Thalaivii (@kanganaranaut) × The announcement comes days after the release of her new film 'Thalaivii' which received mixed responses from critics. Read WION's review of 'Thalaivii' here Filmmaker Alaukik Desai said in a press statement, “Universe does help those who surrender to it with belief. What was a mirage, is now clear. A dream of a pious character never explored is now a reality. I am ecstatic to bring Kangana Ranaut on board as Sita. This pious journey will change the course of how we perceive our mythology. Thank you SS Studio for your immense support and belief.” Also see: We need to discourage English films from taking over our screens: Kangana Ranaut to WION Kangana also has 'Dhaakad' and 'Tejas' in the pipeline.

Kangana Ranaut to play the title role in 'Incarnation of Sita'

<p>In a series of reforms undertaken by Prince Mohammed bin Salman for Saudi Arabia, education has taken one of the top spots.&nbsp;Now a tweet about Prince Salman’s “Vision 2030” for the country has gone viral on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turns out, the country will inculcate information about Hinduism and Buddhism. This will include teaching students about Ramayana and Mahabharata.</p>

<p>A user on Twitter shared images of the test question for their son’s social studies exam, which included questions about the Hindu epics.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/saudi-arabia-to-allow-only-immunised-pilgrims-to-mecca-375572" hreflang="en">Saudi Arabia to allow only 'immunised' pilgrims to Mecca</a></p>

<p>“Saudi Arabia’s new #vision2030 &amp; curriculum will help to create a coexistent, moderate &amp; tolerant generation. Screenshots of my son's school exam today in Social Studies included concepts &amp; history of Hinduism, Buddhism,Ramayana, Karma, Mahabharata Dharma. I enjoyed helping him study,” the tweet read.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Check out the images below</strong></em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Saudi Arabia’s new <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/vision2030?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#vision2030</a> &amp; curriculum will help to create coexistent,moderate &amp; tolerant generation. Screenshots of my sons school exam today in Social Studies included concepts &amp; history of Hinduism,Buddhism,Ramayana, Karma, Mahabharata &amp;Dharma. I enjoyed helping him study <a href="https://t.co/w9c8WYstt9">pic.twitter.com/w9c8WYstt9</a></p>
— Nouf Almarwaai نوف المروعي 🇸🇦 (@NoufMarwaai) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoufMarwaai/status/1382694702852538379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>That’s not it! To realise Vision 2030 for the country, Prince Salman is attempting to mainstream yoga and Ayurveda, which find their roots in India. Besides including Mahabharata and Ramayana in the school curriculum, English language has also been made mandatory as part of the reforms.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/saudi-arabia-announces-13-trillion-investment-for-economic-diversification-374563" hreflang="en">Saudi Arabia announces $1.3 trillion investment for economic diversification</a></p>

<p>The image was tweeted by Nouf Almarwaai, who received the Padma Shri award for being the first certified yoga instructor in Saudi Arabia. The tweet was posted on April 15 and has gone viral since then.</p>


In a series of reforms undertaken by Prince Mohammed bin Salman for Saudi Arabia, education has taken one of the top spots. Now a tweet about Prince Salman’s “Vision 2030” for the country has gone viral on social media.

In a series of reforms undertaken by Prince Mohammed bin Salman for Saudi Arabia, education has taken one of the top spots. Now a tweet about Prince Salman’s “Vision 2030” for the country has gone viral on social media. Turns out, the country will inculcate information about Hinduism and Buddhism. This will include teaching students about Ramayana and Mahabharata. A user on Twitter shared images of the test question for their son’s social studies exam, which included questions about the Hindu epics. Also read: Saudi Arabia to allow only 'immunised' pilgrims to Mecca “Saudi Arabia’s new #vision2030 & curriculum will help to create a coexistent, moderate & tolerant generation. Screenshots of my son's school exam today in Social Studies included concepts & history of Hinduism, Buddhism,Ramayana, Karma, Mahabharata Dharma. I enjoyed helping him study,” the tweet read. Check out the images below Saudi Arabia’s new #vision2030 & curriculum will help to create coexistent,moderate & tolerant generation. Screenshots of my sons school exam today in Social Studies included concepts & history of Hinduism,Buddhism,Ramayana, Karma, Mahabharata &Dharma. I enjoyed helping him study pic.twitter.com/w9c8WYstt9 — Nouf Almarwaai نوف المروعي 🇸🇦 (@NoufMarwaai) April 15, 2021 × That’s not it! To realise Vision 2030 for the country, Prince Salman is attempting to mainstream yoga and Ayurveda, which find their roots in India. Besides including Mahabharata and Ramayana in the school curriculum, English language has also been made mandatory as part of the reforms. Also read: Saudi Arabia announces $1.3 trillion investment for economic diversification The image was tweeted by Nouf Almarwaai, who received the Padma Shri award for being the first certified yoga instructor in Saudi Arabia. The tweet was posted on April 15 and has gone viral since then.

Ramayana, Mahabharata to become part of Saudi Arabia's school curriculum

<p>Expressing his fascination for India in his latest book 'A Promised Land', Former US President Barack Obama said that he has always held a special place for India due to his childhood years spent in Indonesia listening to the epic Hindu tales of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.</p>

<p>Obama's memoir, “A Promised Land,” arrives at a moment of deep political, cultural and social unrest — tensions that have been heightened by a global pandemic and an economic crisis.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-sonias-beauty-to-manmohans-integrity-heres-what-barack-obama-wrote-on-congress-leaders-342800"><strong>Also read | From Sonia's beauty to Manmohan's 'integrity': Here's what Barack Obama wrote on Congress leaders</strong></a></p>

<p>"Maybe it was because I'd spent a part of my childhood in Indonesia listening to the epic Hindu tales of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, or because of my interest in Eastern religions, or because of a group of Pakistani and Indian college friends who'd taught me to cook dal and keema and turned me on to Bollywood movies," Obama writes.</p>

<p>"Maybe it was its (India's) sheer size, with one-sixth of the world's population, an estimated two thousand distinct ethnic groups, and more than seven hundred languages spoken," Obama said.</p>

<p>Obama says he had never been to India before his Presidential visit in 2010, but the country had "always held a special place in my imagination".</p>

<p>"My book is for those young people -- an invitation to once again remake the world, and to bring about, through hard work, determination, and a big dose of imagination, an America that finally aligns with all that is best in us," Obama said.</p>

<p>In the 768-page first volume of his memoirs, the 44th US president reveals that he writes longhand with a pen on a yellow pad instead of on a computer and confesses to an inability to be concise.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Expressing his fascination for India in his latest book 'A Promised Land', Former US President Barack Obama said that he has always held a special place for India due to his childhood years spent in Indonesia listening to the epic Hindu tales of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.

Expressing his fascination for India in his latest book 'A Promised Land', Former US President Barack Obama said that he has always held a special place for India due to his childhood years spent in Indonesia listening to the epic Hindu tales of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. Obama's memoir, “A Promised Land,” arrives at a moment of deep political, cultural and social unrest — tensions that have been heightened by a global pandemic and an economic crisis. Also read | From Sonia's beauty to Manmohan's 'integrity': Here's what Barack Obama wrote on Congress leaders "Maybe it was because I'd spent a part of my childhood in Indonesia listening to the epic Hindu tales of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, or because of my interest in Eastern religions, or because of a group of Pakistani and Indian college friends who'd taught me to cook dal and keema and turned me on to Bollywood movies," Obama writes. "Maybe it was its (India's) sheer size, with one-sixth of the world's population, an estimated two thousand distinct ethnic groups, and more than seven hundred languages spoken," Obama said. Obama says he had never been to India before his Presidential visit in 2010, but the country had "always held a special place in my imagination". "My book is for those young people -- an invitation to once again remake the world, and to bring about, through hard work, determination, and a big dose of imagination, an America that finally aligns with all that is best in us," Obama said. In the 768-page first volume of his memoirs, the 44th US president reveals that he writes longhand with a pen on a yellow pad instead of on a computer and confesses to an inability to be concise. (With inputs from agencies)

Spent childhood listening to Ramayana and Mahabharata: Barack Obama in memoir 

<p>Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayana’ has broken all records in the history of TV. The mythological show recently became the world’s most watched show as it beat ‘Game of Thrones’ with a staggering viewership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Now, after the last episode of ‘Uttar Ramayan’ aired on May 2, fans have started a trend on Twitter, demanding ‘Baahubali’ director SS Rajamouli to bring the series to the big screen.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The filmmaker has directed ‘Baahubali: The Beginning’ and ‘Baahubali: The Conclusion’ which broke many box office records.</p>

<p>Check out some tweets here:</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shree Ram is waiting for you <a href="https://twitter.com/ssrajamouli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ssrajamouli</a> Sir<br />
Please Make Ramayan<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajamouliMakeRamayan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajamouliMakeRamayan</a> <a href="https://t.co/nqz4l1rxm1">pic.twitter.com/nqz4l1rxm1</a></p>
— நவீன புத்தன் (@ModernBuddhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ModernBuddhan/status/1256843058848514051?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Next ramanand sagar should<br />
Be <a href="https://twitter.com/ssrajamouli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ssrajamouli</a> who can create this epic<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajaMouliMakeRamayan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajaMouliMakeRamayan</a><a href="https://twitter.com/PrakashJavdekar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PrakashJavdekar</a> <a href="https://t.co/WNx5K0JSpB">pic.twitter.com/WNx5K0JSpB</a></p>
— Ashish Mishra (@ashishmishra3) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashishmishra3/status/1256804434551746560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ram is not a just a name, Ram is past,present &amp; future. ❤<br />
We request <a href="https://twitter.com/ssrajamouli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ssrajamouli</a> sir to recreate this masterpiece.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajaMouliMakeRamayan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajaMouliMakeRamayan</a><a href="https://twitter.com/arungovil12?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@arungovil12</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/iamSunilLahri?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iamSunilLahri</a><a href="https://twitter.com/ChikhaliaDipika?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChikhaliaDipika</a> <a href="https://t.co/u33N0PCvH1">pic.twitter.com/u33N0PCvH1</a></p>
— Sudhanshu Joshi (@sudhanjoshi) <a href="https://twitter.com/sudhanjoshi/status/1256810442250350596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rajamoulimakeramayan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rajamoulimakeramayan</a><br />
You can do this sir... <a href="https://twitter.com/ssrajamouli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ssrajamouli</a> <a href="https://t.co/DL9KoDDQwd">pic.twitter.com/DL9KoDDQwd</a></p>
— Deepak Vishwakarma (@DeepakV40625022) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeepakV40625022/status/1256804564919111680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ram is not just a name he is soul of India,his great life is a message for every human on this planet,I request you <a href="https://twitter.com/ssrajamouli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ssrajamouli</a> ji to make a grand movie on great life of bhagwan Ram. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RajaMouliMakeRamayan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RajaMouliMakeRamayan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rajmohansingh81?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajmohansingh81</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulKothariBJP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RahulKothariBJP</a> <a href="https://t.co/GrdNu06pF6">pic.twitter.com/GrdNu06pF6</a></p>
— Ayan Bhatt (@soulofhermit) <a href="https://twitter.com/soulofhermit/status/1256804905223847937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ramanand Sagar had made a total of 78 episodes of Ramayan based on Valmiki's Ramayana and Tulsidas' Ramcharitmanas.&nbsp;</p>


Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayana’ has broken all records in the history of TV. The mythological show recently became the world’s most watched show as it beat ‘Game of Thrones’ with a staggering viewership.

Ramanand Sagar’s ‘Ramayana’ has broken all records in the history of TV. The mythological show recently became the world’s most watched show as it beat ‘Game of Thrones’ with a staggering viewership. Now, after the last episode of ‘Uttar Ramayan’ aired on May 2, fans have started a trend on Twitter, demanding ‘Baahubali’ director SS Rajamouli to bring the series to the big screen. The filmmaker has directed ‘Baahubali: The Beginning’ and ‘Baahubali: The Conclusion’ which broke many box office records. Check out some tweets here: Shree Ram is waiting for you @ssrajamouli Sir Please Make Ramayan#RajamouliMakeRamayan pic.twitter.com/nqz4l1rxm1 — நவீன புத்தன் (@ModernBuddhan) May 3, 2020 × Next ramanand sagar should Be @ssrajamouli who can create this epic#RajaMouliMakeRamayan@PrakashJavdekar pic.twitter.com/WNx5K0JSpB — Ashish Mishra (@ashishmishra3) May 3, 2020 × Ram is not a just a name, Ram is past,present & future. ❤ We request @ssrajamouli sir to recreate this masterpiece.#RajaMouliMakeRamayan@arungovil12 @iamSunilLahri@ChikhaliaDipika pic.twitter.com/u33N0PCvH1 — Sudhanshu Joshi (@sudhanjoshi) May 3, 2020 × #Rajamoulimakeramayan You can do this sir... @ssrajamouli pic.twitter.com/DL9KoDDQwd — Deepak Vishwakarma (@DeepakV40625022) May 3, 2020 × Ram is not just a name he is soul of India,his great life is a message for every human on this planet,I request you @ssrajamouli ji to make a grand movie on great life of bhagwan Ram. #RajaMouliMakeRamayan @rajmohansingh81 @RahulKothariBJP pic.twitter.com/GrdNu06pF6 — Ayan Bhatt (@soulofhermit) May 3, 2020 × Meanwhile, Ramanand Sagar had made a total of 78 episodes of Ramayan based on Valmiki's Ramayana and Tulsidas' Ramcharitmanas.

Twitterati want 'Baahubali' director SS Rajamouli to make film on 'Ramayana'

<p>Ever since popular serials ‘Ramayan’ and ‘Mahabharata’ started telecasting on Doordarshan to keep people entertained amid lockdown owing to COVID 19 fears, the shows have been in news for one reason or another.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to latest Twitter trends, Ramayana has been popping in the feed as people complain that there are scenes from the show that have been edited.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/reruns-of-ramayana-mahabharata-make-doordarshan-highest-watched-channel-in-india-291678">Reruns of Ramayana, Mahabharata make Doordarshan highest-watched channel in India</a></p>

<p>Among such concerns, a user asked CEO Prasar Bharti Shashi Shekhar, “why important events like Ahiravan and Diksha by Ravan to Laxman cut down.... feel disappointed" [sic] To this, Shekhar clarified and said, "There have been no cuts, they were not part of the original production."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There have been no cuts, they were not part of the original production.</p>
— Shashi Shekhar (@shashidigital) <a href="https://twitter.com/shashidigital/status/1251359745694294016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Another fan wrote, "There are many scenes in Ramayan which were edited like during setu nirmaan there was a squirrel, that was also edited. Why?" [sic]&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shashi Shekhar then responded that the epic stories have a larger narrative and it wasn't possible for every single interpretation to make it to the script.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/when-ramayanas-sita-aka-dipika-chikhlia-met-with-lk-advani-and-pm-modi-292946">When Ramayana's Sita aka Dipika Chikhlia, met with LK Advani and PM Modi</a></p>

<p>Eager to address all concerns, he further tweeted, "The beauty of our epics are the many stories, side-stories and interpretations. Not every nuance can possibly make it into a single television script but perhaps leaves the door open for future productions." [sic]</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The beauty of our epics are the many stories, side-stories and interpretations. Not every nuance can possibly make it into a single television script but perhaps leaves the door open for future productions <a href="https://t.co/od8HaoBANs">https://t.co/od8HaoBANs</a></p>
— Shashi Shekhar (@shashidigital) <a href="https://twitter.com/shashidigital/status/1251365326551347202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und">🙏 <a href="https://t.co/nsPAzlgNV2">https://t.co/nsPAzlgNV2</a></p>
— Shashi Shekhar (@shashidigital) <a href="https://twitter.com/shashidigital/status/1251741554835746823?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Ever since popular serials ‘Ramayan’ and ‘Mahabharata’ started telecasting on Doordarshan to keep people entertained amid lockdown owing to COVID 19 fears, the shows have been in news for one reason or another.

Ever since popular serials ‘Ramayan’ and ‘Mahabharata’ started telecasting on Doordarshan to keep people entertained amid lockdown owing to COVID 19 fears, the shows have been in news for one reason or another. According to latest Twitter trends, Ramayana has been popping in the feed as people complain that there are scenes from the show that have been edited. Reruns of Ramayana, Mahabharata make Doordarshan highest-watched channel in India Among such concerns, a user asked CEO Prasar Bharti Shashi Shekhar, “why important events like Ahiravan and Diksha by Ravan to Laxman cut down.... feel disappointed" [sic] To this, Shekhar clarified and said, "There have been no cuts, they were not part of the original production." There have been no cuts, they were not part of the original production. — Shashi Shekhar (@shashidigital) April 18, 2020 × Another fan wrote, "There are many scenes in Ramayan which were edited like during setu nirmaan there was a squirrel, that was also edited. Why?" [sic] Shashi Shekhar then responded that the epic stories have a larger narrative and it wasn't possible for every single interpretation to make it to the script. When Ramayana's Sita aka Dipika Chikhlia, met with LK Advani and PM Modi Eager to address all concerns, he further tweeted, "The beauty of our epics are the many stories, side-stories and interpretations. Not every nuance can possibly make it into a single television script but perhaps leaves the door open for future productions." [sic] The beauty of our epics are the many stories, side-stories and interpretations. Not every nuance can possibly make it into a single television script but perhaps leaves the door open for future productions https://t.co/od8HaoBANs — Shashi Shekhar (@shashidigital) April 18, 2020 × 🙏 https://t.co/nsPAzlgNV2 — Shashi Shekhar (@shashidigital) April 19, 2020 ×

Viewers unhappy with DD cutting out scenes from Ramayana, Prasar Bharti CEO replies

<p>Getting back classic programmes like Ramayan during the coronavirus lockdown to keep people entertained has catapulted Doordarshan (DD) to be the highest watched channel in India for week ended April 3, BARC said on Thursday.</p>

<p>The national broadcaster could achieve the feat, which involves a nearly 40,000% jump in viewership in the evening and morning bands, despite a surge reported by the private broadcasters who are also experiencing higher viewership, the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) said.</p>

<p>Starting with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/its-confirmed-ramayana-to-return-to-tv-on-dd-national-from-tomorrow-288836">Hindu mythology series Ramayan,</a> DD has got back other classics like Mahabharat, Shaktiman and Buniyaad to serve the audiences during the three-week lockdown. Most of these were produced when DD monopolised TV broadcasting in the country.</p>

<p>BARC attributed the telecast of Ramayan and Mahabharat for DD’s emergence to the top, while the other programmes also helped improve its position in select time slots.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal of switching off lights at 9 p.m. last Sunday led to the lowest ever viewing in that time segment since 2015. His speech announcing the lighting of lamps had fewer viewers.</p>

<p>Modi’s speech to appeal people to light lamps after turning off the lights had fewer viewers as compared to his speech announcing the lockdown, it said, specifying the numbers at 119 million versus 197 million.</p>

<p>South-based Sun TV’s strategy of broadcasting classics has also paid off and helped it jump on viewership, while a few paid Hindi general entertainment channels (GEC) who have introduced classics have also seen jump in viewership.</p>

<p>The overall TV viewership grew 4% as compared to the previous week and was 43$ higher than the pre-COVID-19 outbreak period, the council said.</p>

<p>Channels in the news and movies genre recorded an all-time high growth in viewership during the week, with Hindi movies surpassing GEC segment, it said.</p>

<p>Interestingly, despite the absence of any new sporting event, the viewership for sports channels grew 21%as they beamed India’s cricket wins from the past and also WWE matches from the past, it said.</p>


Getting back classic programmes like Ramayan during the coronavirus lockdown to keep people entertained has catapulted Doordarshan (DD) to be the highest watched channel in India for week ended April 3, BARC said on Thursday.

Getting back classic programmes like Ramayan during the coronavirus lockdown to keep people entertained has catapulted Doordarshan (DD) to be the highest watched channel in India for week ended April 3, BARC said on Thursday. The national broadcaster could achieve the feat, which involves a nearly 40,000% jump in viewership in the evening and morning bands, despite a surge reported by the private broadcasters who are also experiencing higher viewership, the Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) said. Starting with the Hindu mythology series Ramayan, DD has got back other classics like Mahabharat, Shaktiman and Buniyaad to serve the audiences during the three-week lockdown. Most of these were produced when DD monopolised TV broadcasting in the country. BARC attributed the telecast of Ramayan and Mahabharat for DD’s emergence to the top, while the other programmes also helped improve its position in select time slots. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal of switching off lights at 9 p.m. last Sunday led to the lowest ever viewing in that time segment since 2015. His speech announcing the lighting of lamps had fewer viewers. Modi’s speech to appeal people to light lamps after turning off the lights had fewer viewers as compared to his speech announcing the lockdown, it said, specifying the numbers at 119 million versus 197 million. South-based Sun TV’s strategy of broadcasting classics has also paid off and helped it jump on viewership, while a few paid Hindi general entertainment channels (GEC) who have introduced classics have also seen jump in viewership. The overall TV viewership grew 4% as compared to the previous week and was 43$ higher than the pre-COVID-19 outbreak period, the council said. Channels in the news and movies genre recorded an all-time high growth in viewership during the week, with Hindi movies surpassing GEC segment, it said. Interestingly, despite the absence of any new sporting event, the viewership for sports channels grew 21%as they beamed India’s cricket wins from the past and also WWE matches from the past, it said.

Reruns of Ramayana, Mahabharata make Doordarshan highest-watched channel in India

<p>Brazilian President Jair M. Bolsonaro in a letter to PM Modi on COVID crisis today has made references to Ramayana and compared Indian efforts to Hanuman and Sanjeevani booti.</p>

<p>The excerpt of the letter said, "Just as Lord Hanuman brought the holy medicine from the Himalayas to save the life of Lord Rama's brother Lakshmana, and Jesus healed those who were sick and restored the sight to Bartimeu, India and Brazil will overcome this global crisis by joining forces and sharing blessings &nbsp;for the sake of all people."</p>

<p>Interestingly the letter was sent on the day of &nbsp;Hanuman Jayanti.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also, the fact letter mentions "Holy medicine" or "Sanjeevani Booti" is important given the fact that Brazilian President has requested for hydroxychloroquine, called as the game-changer drug in the fight against COVID the from Indian PM.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week Brazilian President and Indian PM had spoken and discussed the global situation in the wake of the spread of COVID-19 pandemic and request for hydroxychloroquine.</p>

<p>In a tweet, Brazilian President had said," Requested support in the continuity of the provision of pharmaceuticals for the production of hydroxychloroquine”</p>

<p>The Indian govt readout on the talks said, "The Prime Minister assured all possible support to Brazil President in this difficult hour. They agreed that their officials would remain in regular touch concerning the COVID-19 situation and its emerging challenges."</p>

<p>India has got a request from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine. Brazilian President was the Chief Guest at the 70th Republic Day celebrations of India earlier this year. Both countries are also part of the BRICS grouping.</p>

<p>Earlier today US president against talked about getting HCQ from India. Recalling his talks with PM Modi over the weekend he said the Indian PM "was great, he was really good" when "spoke....asked if it would be okay if he released it(Hydroxychloroquine)".</p>

<p>Trump said, "they have.. a lot of it comes out from India..they put a stop because they want it for India."</p>

<p>This is the 3rd time in last 5 days President Trump has talked about his requested for Hydroxychloroquine from India. Indian companies will be fulfilling the contractual obligations of US order put in place before the ban on export was imposed.</p>


Brazilian President Jair M. Bolsonaro in a letter to PM Modi on COVID crisis today has made references to Ramayana and compared Indian efforts to Hanuman and Sanjeevani booti.

Brazilian President Jair M. Bolsonaro in a letter to PM Modi on COVID crisis today has made references to Ramayana and compared Indian efforts to Hanuman and Sanjeevani booti. The excerpt of the letter said, "Just as Lord Hanuman brought the holy medicine from the Himalayas to save the life of Lord Rama's brother Lakshmana, and Jesus healed those who were sick and restored the sight to Bartimeu, India and Brazil will overcome this global crisis by joining forces and sharing blessings for the sake of all people." Interestingly the letter was sent on the day of Hanuman Jayanti. Also, the fact letter mentions "Holy medicine" or "Sanjeevani Booti" is important given the fact that Brazilian President has requested for hydroxychloroquine, called as the game-changer drug in the fight against COVID the from Indian PM. Last week Brazilian President and Indian PM had spoken and discussed the global situation in the wake of the spread of COVID-19 pandemic and request for hydroxychloroquine. In a tweet, Brazilian President had said," Requested support in the continuity of the provision of pharmaceuticals for the production of hydroxychloroquine” The Indian govt readout on the talks said, "The Prime Minister assured all possible support to Brazil President in this difficult hour. They agreed that their officials would remain in regular touch concerning the COVID-19 situation and its emerging challenges." India has got a request from 30 countries for hydroxychloroquine. Brazilian President was the Chief Guest at the 70th Republic Day celebrations of India earlier this year. Both countries are also part of the BRICS grouping. Earlier today US president against talked about getting HCQ from India. Recalling his talks with PM Modi over the weekend he said the Indian PM "was great, he was really good" when "spoke....asked if it would be okay if he released it(Hydroxychloroquine)". Trump said, "they have.. a lot of it comes out from India..they put a stop because they want it for India." This is the 3rd time in last 5 days President Trump has talked about his requested for Hydroxychloroquine from India. Indian companies will be fulfilling the contractual obligations of US order put in place before the ban on export was imposed.

On Hanuman Jayanti, Brazilian president writes to PM Modi; makes references to Ramayana, Sanjeevani booti

<p>Brazilian Envoy to India has said that Brazilian President Bolsonaro is interested in Hinduism and in the "richness of Indian religious traditions" even as the Latin American leader wrote a letter to Indian PM which had references to Ramayana.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-hanuman-jayanti-brazilian-president-writes-to-pm-modi-makes-references-to-ramayana-sanjeevani-booti-291291">Also read: On Hanuman Jayanti, Brazilian president writes to PM Modi; makes references to Ramayana, Sanjeevani booti</a></p>

<p>Speaking to WION's Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, <strong>Envoy Andre Aranha Correa do Lago</strong> said," Modi and President Bolsonaro have very strong faith" and also talked about his country's request for hydroxychloroquine, called as game-changer in the fight against COVID.</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>Brazilian President and PM Modi spoke, what were the key points of conversations?</p>

<p><strong>Andre Aranha Correa do Lago:</strong> After the visit of President Bolsonaro to India, there was a clear understanding between our 2 leaders that they have to coordinate the major issues that were happening in the world because our 2 countries are acquiring completely different profile in the world and obviously with the incredible pandemic and this challenge our leaders had to speak about it and so they spoke about this issue from different points of views and naturally President mentioned the importance of pharmaceutic dimension of our relationship.</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>You requested for hydroxychloroquine..why is it important for you?</p>

<p><strong>Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: </strong>Because most of our factories in Brazil produce hydroxychloroquine from substances that come from India, so we need it for our main producers, they will need it coming from India. So this is a great hope that has been presented in the fight against COVID 19, issues were mentioned.</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>President Bolsonaro wrote a letter to PM Modi, mentioned Ramayana, Hanuman and Sanjeevani Booti, what was the thought process behind it?</p>

<p><strong>Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: </strong>Yes, you know, you have to remember that two things were very clear for President Bolsonaro when he came to India, first he was fascinated by the religious tradition of India and he started to be very interested in Hindusim and the richness of Indian religious traditions. Another side is President Bolsonaro is a very religious man, so I believe that he was very much inspired by that and remembering both Modi and him are true believers and have very strong faith that is I believe he decided to put that quotation that shows although we have a different religion, in our religion, we have the profile and Ideas that are linked to the support that everyone has to give to each other in such crisis. Today is Hanuman Jayanti, all these signs are very very interesting.</p>


Brazilian Envoy to India has said that Brazilian President Bolsonaro is interested in Hinduism and in the "richness of Indian religious traditions" even as the Latin American leader wrote a letter to Indian PM which had references to Ramayana.

Brazilian Envoy to India has said that Brazilian President Bolsonaro is interested in Hinduism and in the "richness of Indian religious traditions" even as the Latin American leader wrote a letter to Indian PM which had references to Ramayana. Also read: On Hanuman Jayanti, Brazilian president writes to PM Modi; makes references to Ramayana, Sanjeevani booti Speaking to WION's Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Andre Aranha Correa do Lago said," Modi and President Bolsonaro have very strong faith" and also talked about his country's request for hydroxychloroquine, called as game-changer in the fight against COVID. WION: Brazilian President and PM Modi spoke, what were the key points of conversations? Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: After the visit of President Bolsonaro to India, there was a clear understanding between our 2 leaders that they have to coordinate the major issues that were happening in the world because our 2 countries are acquiring completely different profile in the world and obviously with the incredible pandemic and this challenge our leaders had to speak about it and so they spoke about this issue from different points of views and naturally President mentioned the importance of pharmaceutic dimension of our relationship. WION: You requested for hydroxychloroquine..why is it important for you? Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: Because most of our factories in Brazil produce hydroxychloroquine from substances that come from India, so we need it for our main producers, they will need it coming from India. So this is a great hope that has been presented in the fight against COVID 19, issues were mentioned. WION: President Bolsonaro wrote a letter to PM Modi, mentioned Ramayana, Hanuman and Sanjeevani Booti, what was the thought process behind it? Andre Aranha Correa do Lago: Yes, you know, you have to remember that two things were very clear for President Bolsonaro when he came to India, first he was fascinated by the religious tradition of India and he started to be very interested in Hindusim and the richness of Indian religious traditions. Another side is President Bolsonaro is a very religious man, so I believe that he was very much inspired by that and remembering both Modi and him are true believers and have very strong faith that is I believe he decided to put that quotation that shows although we have a different religion, in our religion, we have the profile and Ideas that are linked to the support that everyone has to give to each other in such crisis. Today is Hanuman Jayanti, all these signs are very very interesting.

Brazil president interested in Hinduism, says envoy on references to Ramayana in letter by Bolsonaro

ramayana

Ramayana, News on Ramayana, stories on Ramayana, articles on Ramayana, Ramayana stories at Wion, Ramayana news, Ramayana latest news