Celebrating Ram Navami

Rungmunch – the theatre with a cause – celebrated Ram Navami in their production of the Geet Ramayan, symbolizing the victory of good over evil through their presentation of the great Indian epic in a Broadway-style musical presentation at Cal State University, Hayward, on April 5 and 6, 2025.

In a spectacular display of culture and tradition, the Rungmuch production of the revered Indian epic captivated a houseful audience with its blend of live music, graceful dance, and performances from over 100 talented artists. The Geet Ramayan (Ramayan through music) paid tribute to the timeless story of Lord Ram, celebrating its relevance and influence on generations past and present.

The evening was marked by an unparalleled fusion of art forms, with live orchestral music and intricate dance performances that brought the sacred verses of the Ramayan to life. More than 100 performers, including musicians, dancers, and actors, played an integral role in narrating the story, expressing a rich tapestry of emotions, from devotion to valor, through vibrant choreography and powerful musical compositions that resonated deeply with the audience.

The cast of the Geet Ramayan
More than 100 performers, including musicians, dancers, and actors, played an integral role in narrating the story (imnage courtesy: Rungmuch)

The relevance of The Ramayan

The Ramayan serves as a vital pillar of Indian culture and tradition, and the performance was a reminder of its importance in today’s world. In an age where rapid globalization often leads to a disconnection from one’s roots, such performances provide an essential link to the past, reminding children growing up in foreign lands of the richness of their heritage. The Ramayan continues to anchor them to their cultural legacy, offering a sense of identity and belonging that transcends geographical boundaries.

In addition to its cultural significance, the Ramayan also imparts timeless values that resonate across generations. The epic highlights the importance of dharma, or righteousness, and teaches lessons of honor, loyalty, duty, and selflessness. It serves as a guiding beacon for all, reminding us to uphold moral conduct and embody virtuous principles in our daily lives.

Two dancers play Ram & Sita in a production of the Geet Ramayan
Ram and Sita in Rungmuch’s production of the Geet Ramayan (image courtesy: Rungmunch)
Two men and a woman perform a scene from the Ramayan
A scene from the Geet Ramayan (image courtesy: Rungmuch)

Smita and Madhav Karhade, founders and artistic directors of Rungmunch, described Rungmunch’s dedication to charitable causes through art and being a bridge for Indian expats who want to stay rooted in their traditions, history, and culture. 

Cast and crew of a Geet Ramayan production
The cast and crew of the Geet Ramayan production (image courtesy: Rungmunch)

No Paywalls, No Algorithms — How do we do it? 

We know you get a lot of requests for support from us and you deserve an explanation for why we do this.

Good journalism costs real money because it takes talented people.  Technology helps a little bit (and costs a lot), but there is no substitute for real reporting skills.  

So, how do we pay for our journalism?  Not too long ago, advertising helped sustain newsrooms. Today, Less than 20% of our income comes from advertisements.  

We depend on readers like you to keep us going.  

In a world full of digital noise, we stay focused on building community through stories for the Indian diaspora.

Will you help us?

Yes, I will support India Currents!

Smita Karhade is the co-founder of Rungmunch - Theater with a Cause, that brings together artists of Indian origin for the betterment of the community.