Ravi Kishan played Rama in Ramlila and spoke about battling depression through spirituality

In the city of Kashi, known as a center of religion and spirituality, a 483-year-old tradition, considered an example of harmony between Hindu and Muslim cultures (Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb) and interfaith unity, has been disrupted. During the Ramlila performances at the Laath Bhairav temple complex, verses from the Ramayana were recited simultaneously while representatives of the Muslim community performed the Maghrib prayer.

The joint observance of religious rituals by representatives of two faiths in the same complex has always been a unique feature of Kashi's communal harmony. However, this time, because members of the Muslim community did not appear to perform the prayer, members of the Ramlila organizing committee expressed disappointment and dissatisfaction.

Members of the Ramlila committee stated that the cessation of attendance by the Muslim community for prayer led to the breaking of a long-standing tradition. The committee perceived this as a boycott of Ramlila and expressed regret. They emphasized that this tradition was not merely limited to a religious event but also served as a message of brotherhood and interfaith unity across the country, and its violation brought them sorrow.

The chief figure of Ramlila, Vyas Dayashankar Tripathi, reported that he has been associated with this Ramlila since the age of six and served as the Mahant of Shri Laath Bhairav temple for 47 years. He also participated in roles such as Bharat, Lakshman, and Shatrugna in the Ramlila. According to Dayashankar Tripathi, this 483-year-old Ramlila is a symbol of Kashi's interfaith unity. The sight of Muslim community members performing prayers against the backdrop of Ramayana recitations represented an exceptional example of mutual respect. He expressed concern that the absence of Muslim community members this time might indicate a boycott of Ramlila, although independent confirmation of his concerns regarding any statements or directives from imams has not been received.

Speaking about the history of the Laath Bhairav temple complex, Dayashankar Tripathi noted that it is a very ancient place. According to him, after a legal case related to a dispute over the temple's territory, the temple side prevailed. In his assertion, the court's decision granted the Muslim community the right to perform prayers on the complex's premises on Eid and Bakrid days. He also mentioned the historical appearance of the temple, noting that, in his opinion, eight statues of Bhairav installed in eight 'khanas' around the temple were destroyed during the reign of Aurangzeb.

The simultaneous recitation of the Ramayana and prayer during the Laath Bhairav Ramlila has long been regarded as a symbol of Kashi's shared culture and religious tolerance. The non-attendance of Muslim community representatives for prayer caused disappointment among the members of the organizing committee. The committee believes that such traditions strengthen mutual trust, respect, and brotherhood in society.

On the second day of Navratri 2026, worship will be performed to the form of Maa Durga—Brahmacharini. According to religious beliefs, Maa Brahmacharini symbolizes asceticism, self-sacrifice, self-control, and firm resolve. She is called Brahmacharini due to her rigorous practices and state of meditation (Brahma).

Worshipping this goddess brings spiritual strength and patience to her followers. It is believed that honoring Devi is especially auspicious for students and individuals engaged in spiritual practices. It is also recommended that those whose Moon sign is weak perform worship to Maa Brahmacharini.

On the second day of Navratri, after taking a bath, one should wear yellow or white clothing and perform worship to Maa Brahmacharini. First, one must light a ghee lamp before the Devi. Then, offerings of turmeric, sandalwood, roli, akshat, turmeric, and fragrant perfume are made to the Mother. White flowers, honey, or Panchamrit can be offered to the Goddess. After this, the mantra 'Om Aim Namah' can be chanted. To strengthen the Moon, white flowers and white objects should be offered, and the mantra 'Om Shram Shreem Shraum Sah Chandramase Namah' should be recited at least three times.

To alleviate financial difficulties, it is recommended to take a coconut with water and hold it on one's lap. Subsequently, the mantra Om Dum Durgay Namah must be repeated 108 times. Following this, there is a ritual of throwing this coconut into running water. It is believed that this method helps rid poverty and promotes improvement in financial circumstances.

According to mythological history, Maa Brahmacharini was born in the home of Parvatraj of the Himalayas and the goddess Maina. Since she was the daughter of Parvatraj, she was named Parvati. In childhood, listening to stories of Lord Shiva from Rishi Narada, she decided to attain Shiva as her spouse. Mata Parvati undertook severe ascetic practices to appease Shiva. Initially, she restricted her diet, then relied on fruits and leaves, and later gave up both food and water. Recognizing her austere practice and unwavering devotion, Lord Shiva appeared to her and accepted her as his wife. It is because of this ascetic appearance that she is called Maa Brahmacharini.