The SWAHA Hindu College brought the Ramleela tradition to life with a vibrant, three-day celebration from Friday, October 18th, to Sunday, October 20th, drawing over 1,000 Sangre Grande residents. The festivities concluded on Sunday with the burning of a towering 85-foot Rawaan effigy, one of the tallest in recent years on the island, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
A Tradition Refined Over Time
The centerpiece of the event, the massive Rawaan effigy, was the work of Trevor Seunarine, an art teacher at SWAHA Hindu College, who has led this creative project since 2005. “It’s a passion that has evolved over the years,” said Seunarine. “Each time, I refine the process to make the effigy more unique and exciting.”
Seunarine expressed deep gratitude for Vice Principal Ambika Maharaj and Principal Pt. Ishwar Maharaj, who provide the funding and platform for the project. “Their support makes it possible for us to continue building and displaying the effigy year after year,” Seunarine noted.
Performances, Dance, and Tassa Drumming
The Ramleela production brought together students from SWAHA Hindu College, SWAHA Tulsi Manas Mandir, and Tulsi Manas Primary School. Their engaging retelling of the Ramayana kept the audience entertained, blending humor with drama to capture the essence of the ancient story.
Dance performances added vibrancy throughout the event, with captivating routines by the SWAHA Hindu College Dance Group, Studio C, Chingari Dance Group, and Charmin School of Dance. Before the grand finale, the East Side Fire Tassa Group heightened excitement with a spirited performance, preparing the crowd for the climax.
Fireworks and the Burning of Rawaan
On Sunday night, the celebrations reached their peak with a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the night sky, drawing applause and cheers. As the fireworks concluded, the 85-foot Rawaan effigy was set ablaze, symbolizing the defeat of evil. The flames mesmerized onlookers as the massive structure slowly crumbled, marking the emotional conclusion of the weekend’s festivities.
Food and Fun for All Ages
The celebrations also offered a variety of local treats, including pholourie, doubles, pepper roti, and even ice cream, ensuring that everyone could indulge in delicious fare throughout the weekend. For families and children, mandala colouring books were available for purchase, providing a creative activity that complemented the cultural atmosphere.
A Celebration of Unity and Tradition
The Ramleela celebrations at SWAHA Hindu College not only entertained but also reinforced the importance of community spirit and cultural preservation. For Seunarine and his team, the event represented the culmination of months of hard work and a commitment to keeping the Ramleela tradition alive.
As the embers of Rawaan’s effigy cooled and the crowd dispersed, the weekend left participants and spectators with a sense of fulfillment, knowing they had taken part in a meaningful tradition that connects generations and strengthens the cultural fabric of the community.
