Ramlila Federation Fixes October 20 for Dasehra
The Shri Ramlila Mahasangh, the apex body representing Ramlila committees across Delhi, has declared that Dasehra will be celebrated on October 20, 2026. The annual Ramlila Mahotsav is scheduled to run from October 11 to October 21.
This decision was reached unanimously during a special meeting held at the Constitution Club in New Delhi, chaired by the federation's president, Arjun Kumar. Representatives from hundreds of Ramlila committees attended the gathering to deliberate on matters concerning the organization of the yearly religious and cultural festivities.
Appeal for Free Electricity and Venues
Kumar expressed gratitude to the Delhi government for providing 1,200 units of complimentary electricity to Ramlila committees last year. He urged the government to extend this free electricity support to all Ramlila events this year. Additionally, he appealed to the Delhi Development Authority to provide grounds free of cost for 45 days to facilitate preparations and performances.
Proposal for Designated 'Utsav Sthal'
The federation's general secretary, Subhash Goyal, proposed that all grounds where Ramlila performances are held be officially designated as 'Utsav Sthal (Ramlila)' in recognition of their cultural significance.
Political Support and Assurances
The event was attended by Delhi BJP president and Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra, who was felicitated by the federation along with other Members of Parliament from Delhi. Malhotra assured organizers that efforts would be made to resolve issues faced by Ramlila committees before the festivities commence. He stated, 'No obstacles will be allowed to come in the way of religious activities, and all problems related to Ramlila organisation will be addressed before the celebrations begin.'
MP Praveen Khandelwal said pending issues faced by organizers would be taken up collectively. MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri described Ramlila as an integral part of Indian culture and said MPs would raise the committees' concerns with the Union Home Ministry and Delhi's Lieutenant Governor.
MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat remarked that Ramlila remains one of the largest cultural and religious celebrations in the city. She acknowledged that organizing committees often face logistical and administrative challenges. 'We have been watching Ramlila performances since childhood, and there is tremendous enthusiasm in society for them. Today's meeting provided an opportunity for organizers to present their concerns, and we will make every effort through the government and concerned agencies to resolve them in time,' she said.
