Buxar: While most parts of the country celebrate Durga Puja with the burning of Ravana’s effigy on Vijayadashami, Kukudha village in Itarhi block of Buxar district follows a unique tradition. Here, Ravana is burned only after Dussehra, with the 250-year-old Ramleela tradition culminating in the burning of his effigy on Monday this year.The 15-day Ramleela is distinguished by its unique format, in which the Ramayana unfolds across four locations in the village rather than on a single stage. The Panchayat Bhawan represents Ayodhya, Kukudha Middle School becomes Chitrakoot, Hanuman temple complex depicts Pampapuri, and Askamani ground is transformed into Lanka, where the final battle between Ram and Ravana takes place.The audience moves from one location to another as the story progresses, making the entire village part of the performance. A fair held alongside the event adds to the festive atmosphere, attracting families and visitors from nearby villages.The Ramleela also reflects Kukudha’s longstanding tradition of Hindu-Muslim unity. Members of both communities have participated in the performances for generations. Suleman Miyan performed the role of Ravana for nearly 20 years, while Hafiz Sai portrayed Bharat. Both have since passed away, but villagers continue to remember their performances with affection.According to Ramleela committee president Harendra Kushwaha, the tradition of mutual respect extends beyond the stage, with members of both communities participating in each other’s festivals and religious events.Although villagers believe the tradition dates back around 250 years, there are no written records establishing its origins. Its history has been passed down orally through successive generations. The organisers, however, are concerned about the tradition’s future.Changing lifestyles and declining interest among younger people have made it increasingly difficult to find performers for key roles. In some instances, episodes are sustained through the recitation of Ramayana verses when actors are unavailable.Villager Subhash Kumar recalled that people from around 10 neighbouring villages once gathered to watch the performances over several days. Many actors portrayed the same characters for years and became widely recognised by their roles.
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