BK Singh
In the heart of Prayagraj, tradition comes alive each year during the grand celebrations of Dussehra, where Lord Shri Ram and his brother Lakshman are ceremoniously seated on a magnificent 120-year-old throne.
This throne, steeped in devotion and craftsmanship, remains the centerpiece of the Ramlila procession, embodying both cultural heritage and spiritual faith.
The throne is no ordinary relic—it weighs nearly six quintals, dazzles with the brilliance of gold-like radiance, and is adorned with countless jewels.
Crafted over a century ago by the visionary artisan Jadia Nathoo Ram and his close friend Baldev, the creation of this throne was itself a saga of devotion. With the labor of twenty skilled craftsmen working tirelessly for five months, this masterpiece was born.
Nathoo Ram, a man of deep faith, undertook the task at his own home in Badshahi Mandi, working late into the night under the glow of oil lamps to complete it.
Twelve decades ago, “lakhon” (hundreds of thousands) of precious stones were embedded into its design, making it a timeless treasure of devotion and artistry.
Today, the responsibility of preserving this tradition lies with Rajesh Kumar Singh Jadia, the great-grandson of Nathoo Ram, who serves as the General Secretary of the Shringar Chauki wing of the Shriram Patharchatti Ramlila Committee.
For Rajesh, the throne is not just an artifact but a sacred legacy of faith passed down through generations. He recalls how his great-grandfather’s unwavering devotion to Lord Ram inspired the creation of this throne, which continues to carry divine grace even today.
The Shringar Chauki procession, an age-old ritual, continues to enchant devotees every year. Beginning at Vanshidhar Kothi, the ornamental platforms adorned with flowers, banana leaves, pearls, and earthen pots pass through key areas of the city—Kotwali, Thatheri Bazaar, Jansen Ganj, Niranjan Talkies Square, Chameli Bai Dharamshala—before culminating at the ancestral residence of Nathoo Ram Jadia.
The sight of Lord Ram and Lakshman enthroned on this golden relic fills the streets with devotion and reverence.
Last year, the throne underwent an elaborate restoration, during which thousands of jewels were re-embedded, ensuring its grandeur continues to shine for future generations.
Even today, during the coronation ceremony of the Ramlila, Lord Ram is seated upon this very throne, carrying forward a tradition that has remained unbroken for over a century.
The 120-year-old throne of Prayagraj’s Ramlila is more than a seat of honor—it is a living testimony to faith, heritage, and devotion, standing as a bridge between the glorious past and the vibrant present.
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