Ramlila Procession Through Old Delhi
Step into the heart of Old Delhi and witness the enchanting Ramlila Savari, a tradition that has graced the historic streets of Chandni Chowk for over 180 years.
The last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, initiated the tradition of the Ramlila Savari in Old Delhi. It brought together neighboring Hindu communities, becoming a cultural cornerstone of the walled city.
The Savari procession would stretch for at least a kilometer, winding its way through the significant galis (lanes) and mohallas (neighborhoods) of Old Delhi. It was led by majestic horses, followed by camels and elephants in earlier days.
Troupes of musicians, playing instruments like the nafir and shehnai, would lead beautifully crafted carts with water dispensers or mashaq , quenching the thirst of the eager crowds.
Each tableau depicted a scene from the epic Ramayana, captivating the imagination of young and old alike. The final one, featuring Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman, was followed by hawkers selling bows, arrows, masks, and more
The last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, initiated the tradition of the Ramlila Savari in Old Delhi. It brought together neighboring Hindu communities, becoming a cultural cornerstone of the walled city.
The Savari procession would stretch for at least a kilometer, winding its way through the significant galis (lanes) and mohallas (neighborhoods) of Old Delhi. It was led by majestic horses, followed by camels and elephants in earlier days.
Troupes of musicians, playing instruments like the nafir and shehnai, would lead beautifully crafted carts with water dispensers or mashaq , quenching the thirst of the eager crowds.
Each tableau depicted a scene from the epic Ramayana, captivating the imagination of young and old alike. The final one, featuring Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman, was followed by hawkers selling bows, arrows, masks, and more
All Photos © MOHSIN JAVED, No photographs can be published/used without prior permission.
