Patna: Gandhi Maidan is set to host the 71st edition of Patna’s traditional Ramleela from October 11 to 21, bringing together religious performances, cultural programmes and modern stage technology.
Organised by the Shri Dussehra Committee Trust, the annual festival will feature artists from Delhi’s Sanskritik Kala Sangam, who will present episodes from the life of Lord Ram.
This year, LED screens and special effects are expected to be among the main attractions, adding a modern visual dimension to the longstanding tradition.
According to the programme announced by the organisers, the festival will begin on Sunday, October 11, with an inauguration ceremony at 4 pm, followed by Ramleela performances and cultural programmes.
Inauguration Ceremony Scheduled for October 11
The festival is scheduled to be inaugurated at 4 pm on October 11 by Nitish Kumar, former Bihar chief minister and Janata Dal (United) national president, according to the organisers.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Health Minister Nishant Kumar, Art and Culture Minister Dr Pramod Kumar and other dignitaries are expected to attend.
Following the inauguration, Ramleela performances will begin, while the cultural programme is scheduled to start at 6 pm.
LED Screens and Special Effects to Add a Modern Touch
A key feature of this year’s event will be the use of LED screens and special effects to enhance the stage presentation.
Trust president Arun Kumar said an LED screen was being installed behind the stage, alongside arrangements for special effects to make different scenes more visually engaging.
Organisers say the technology is intended to help audiences follow the story through a combination of live performances and background visuals. They have described the proposed setup as a first for a Ramleela performance in Patna.
The aim is to make the traditional presentation more engaging, particularly for younger audiences, while retaining its religious and cultural character.
Ramleela and Cultural Programmes Until October 19
The programme schedule has been divided into two phases.
From October 11 to 14, Ramleela performances will begin at 4 pm each day, followed by cultural evenings from 6 pm. The programme will include music, dance and other cultural presentations.
From October 15 to 19, Ramleela performances are scheduled to begin at 6 pm daily, with episodes from the Ramayana presented through acting, dialogue and stage settings.
The organisers expect the combination of religious performances and cultural activities to attract families and visitors to Gandhi Maidan throughout the festival.
71-Year Tradition Dating Back to 1955
The Gandhi Maidan Ramleela has been organised since 1955, making it a longstanding part of Patna’s cultural calendar.
The Shri Dussehra Committee Trust says the event aims to promote Indian traditions and communicate the ideals associated with Lord Ram to the public.
While the presentation is being updated with modern technology, the organisers say the festival’s traditional purpose remains unchanged.
Devotees to Get an Opportunity to Offer Prayers to Maa Patan Devi
Another religious feature planned for the festival is the installation of an idol of Maa Patan Devi near the main pandal at Gandhi Maidan.
The arrangements are being coordinated by Shishir Kumar and Dr Ajay Prakash. The facility is intended to give devotees attending the Ramleela an opportunity to offer prayers alongside watching the performances.
Ravan Dahan on October 20, Bharat Milap on October 21
The festival’s major concluding events will take place on October 20 and 21.
A grand Ravan Dahan is scheduled for October 20 at 4 pm, accompanied by fireworks. The event is expected to draw large crowds to Gandhi Maidan.
The following day, Bharat Milap will be held at 6 pm on October 21, marking the final major programme in the festival schedule.
Trust general secretary Prince Kumar Raju said preparations were nearly complete, with office-bearers, members and young volunteers working to ensure the event runs smoothly.
Treasurer Dr Dhananjay Kumar appealed to people to attend the festival and participate in the celebration of Indian cultural traditions.
Patna Ramleela 2026: Full Schedule
- October 11: Inauguration at 4 pm, followed by Ramleela; cultural programme at 6 pm.
- October 12–14: Ramleela at 4 pm; cultural evenings at 6 pm.
- October 15–19: Ramleela performances at 6 pm daily.
- October 20: Ravan Dahan and fireworks at 4 pm.
- October 21: Bharat Milap at 6 pm.
The festival combines a decades-old religious tradition with updated stage technology and cultural performances, offering residents and visitors another opportunity to experience one of Patna’s established Dussehra celebrations.
