 | ||
Ram barat tajganj agra up 2015 pt 1
Ram Barat (Hindi: राम बारात) is a part of the Ramlila celebration in Agra, India. It is one of the biggest annual events in North India. Ram Barat literally means "Baraat (marriage procession) of Shri Ram". Every year a new locality is chosen in Agra and is elaborately decorated with lights and flowers. The area is given a major facelift befitting the venue for the divine marriage.
Contents
Shri ram barat part 2
History
The history of Ram Barat is said to go back around 125 years, when Lala Kokamal, a reputed business man, started the tradition of three days of festivities, revolving around the royal wedding. His influence has been so great on this festival that the road from where the Baraat proceeds has been named 'Lala Kokamal Marg', and the grounds where Ram Lila is held are named after Lala Kokamal. In 1966 when he died his son Radharaman took charge as secretary of Ramlila until his death in 1978. At present his youngest son Raj Narain is treasurer of Ramlila and his Grand son Hari kishan Agarwal is Vice president of this prestigious society.
Preparations
Preparation for the mega event begin well in advance and the best craftsmen from the country are invited to set up the Janak Mahal and other elaborate structures. The locality selected for Ram Barat is given special funding and is decorated like a bride's paternal home, ready to receive the Baraatis (Shri Ram and his family entourage).
Festivities
The festivities last for three days. On the first day marriage procession is taken out which is watched by millions of people of Agra as well as those arriving from neighbouring districts of Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh. The place is lit up with thousands of lights and there is non-stop music, and the cinema theatres run film shows throughout the night to accommodate the migratory crowd. These three days are like carnival when people from all walks of life come together to have a great time.