Ramlila and Durga Puja in ICC Johannesburg – A Report

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Staging of Ramlila and celebrations of Durga Puja in Gauteng Province of Republic of South Africa on the occasion of Dusshara 

Indian Cultural Centre in partnership with Uttar Bharat Seva Samaj of South Africa (UBHAS) organised Dusshera celebrations on 8th October, 2011 at Kayalami. This is first time in Gauteng Province of South Africa that the enactment of Ramlila was organised on stage with the help of Indian Culture Centre and local artists which was appreciated by over 1000 people attended the event.

The ICC Music teacher Kamla Dhyani and Hari Nath Jha both accomplished artists in Hindustani Classical vocal discipline produced music for the Ramlila. Director ICC helped assist in writing script and direction of the Ram Lila. The rehearsal for the Ram Lila continued for last two months in the ICC on Saturdays and Sundays.

High Commissioner HE Virendra Gupta and Veenu Gupta graced the occasion as Chief Guest. The Councillor of Midrand, officials of Department of Art & Culture, Consulate General of India and ICC and CEO of Jindal Group of Industries, TATA Motors, State Bank of India and Bank of India etc. were present amongst the dignitaries.

The President of UBAHS Manoj Joshi while presenting vote of thanks appreciated the efforts put forth and support and cooperation extended by ICC, Johannesburg for on stage enactment of the Ram Lila in its traditional form. The Director, ICC Vinod Sandlesh seeing the enthusiasm and interest of Indian community as well people of other ethnicity assured the office bearers of UBHAS ICC’s continued support and cooperation for staging the Ram Lila in much better and professional manner in the coming year.

Durga Puja celebrations organised by Bengali Association of South Africa(BASA)

Indian Cultural Centre participated in three day long (8-10 October, 2011) Durga Puja celebrations organised by BASA in Community Centre at Malboro.The ICC Music Teacher and students presented devotional songs on the occasion. High Commissioner HE Virendra Gupta was invited as Chief Guest on the first night of celebrations. The event attracted cross section of the Indian community and South African community besides the Bengali community in and around Johannesburg.