Ramayana Ballet at Purawisata

I can still remember that single lesson on the two ancient Sanskrit epics, the Mahabharata and the Ramayana in school so long ago.

The tale of Rama and Sita depicted in the Ramayana is famous throughout the world. Rama and Sita are husband and wife. When his beloved wife, Sita is kidnapped by Ravana, a ten-headed demon king, Rama goes to rescue her with the help of a band of monkeys. After many trials and tribulations that both have to endure, they are reunited. This is just the gist of the tale.

On our visit to the Prambanan Temple that I have written about in my earlier post, we had the opportunity to admire the spectacular stone carvings illustrating the adventures of the hero and heroine of the Ramayana.

Our guide informed that a performance of this epic in the open-air theatre is mesmerising as it is set against the lighted backdrop of the Prambanan Temple. Unfortunately as it was the rainy season at the time of our visit, we could only enjoy such a performance in town.

That same evening, we went to this restaurant cum theatre called Purawisata. While enjoying a buffet dinner, we were entertained by a live gamelan and traditional dance performance.

Afterwards, we were ushered next door to an open-air small stadium or amphitheater to watch a live performance of the Ramayana. The drama played out on stage with the richly coloured costumes, beautiful dance movements, mock fighting and intense gamelan music was riveting.

Photo taking is permitted throughout the performance. After the curtain call, members of the audience are welcomed to pose for photos with the performers on the stage.

Thank you to all for upvoting my posts. Cheers!