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Muslim Man Stars as Hindu God in Ram Leela
19 Oct
Summary
- Abid Shaikh portrays Lakshmana for 14 years in Vadodara.
- He will play Kevat and Meghnad in Chhota Udepur's Ram Leela.
- Shaikh emphasizes humanity over religion for communal harmony.
For 14 consecutive years, 39-year-old Abid Shaikh from Vadodara has been a prominent figure in the city's Ram Leela, portraying Lakshmana. This year, he is expanding his role to perform as Kevat and Meghnad in Chhota Udepur's inaugural large-scale Ram Leela, scheduled for Vijayadashami. Shaikh views his participation as a means to connect with the epic's values and promote religious amity.
The event in Chhota Udepur, led by Collector Gargi Jain, signifies an effort to revive the discontinued Dussehra Mela. The production, featuring over 70 artists, aims to reintroduce younger generations to the Ramayana and its cultural significance.
Shaikh, who has been involved in Ram Leela since 2007, underscores the primacy of humanity over religious affiliation. He stated, "There is only one creator for the entire world. What matters most is humanity; religion comes later." His family's support has enabled his continued passion for these performances.
The Shree Ram Seva Sangh, established in 2007, organizes the production, which includes a 35-foot effigy of Ravana being burned. This initiative by the district administration seeks to re-establish the Dussehra Mela as a community-uniting cultural event, similar to the traditional Ger Mela.
