When we think of Ramlila performances, glittering crowns on the heads of actors portraying Lord Rama and Lakshman are a common sight. But have you ever imagined a crown being more than a century old and still being used with the exact same reverence? In the historic Pajawa Ramlila of Prayagraj, this is a living reality.
Before the grand staging of the epic begins, the crowns and ornaments reserved for Rama, Lakshman, Bharat, Shatrughan, and Goddess Sita undergo a meticulous cleaning and polishing ritual, followed by prayers at a local temple. What makes these artifacts extraordinary is that they were crafted by skilled artisans in Lahore long before the partition of India.
A Century-Old Legacy Linked to Lahore Artisans
Transport yourself back to an era when borders between India and Lahore did not exist the way they do today. It was during this time that these majestic crowns were commissioned by the family of Lala Manohar Das 'Bachcha Ji' and fashioned by master craftsmen in Lahore. As time passed and history reshaped the subcontinent, these crowns remained untouched by the political divide, preserving their timeless charm.
This year too, the traditional crown worship ceremony was held at the ancient Ram Janki temple in the Shahganj area of Prayagraj. According to Sachin Kumar Gupta, finance secretary of the Pajawa Ramlila Committee, the ceremonial cleaning and rituals mark the official countdown to the much-awaited Ramlila celebrations.
An Invaluable Heirloom of Gold and Silver
Beyond their age, these crowns hold immense material value as they were forged using a unique blend of gold and silver. However, for the committee members and devotees, their true worth lies in the rich historical tapestry they represent—a testament to cross-border artistry, generational devotion, and timeless cultural continuity.
As the stage is set for the festive season, and actors don these century-old artifacts, they carry forward a legacy that has withstood the test of time and partition. For the Pajawa Ramlila, these crowns are not merely costume accessories, but a profound symbol of a heritage that refuses to fade away.
'The Freelance' does not independently verify the claims made in viral videos shared across social media platforms. These visuals continue to generate widespread public interest. Video credits: Respective social media handles / creators.
