*Ramilla In English for the Commonwealth Games’ Tourists * Source: www.hindustantimes.com
NEW DELHI, INDIA, September 28, 2010: Delhi’s Ramlilas, organized during the festival of Navratri, is planned to woo Commonwealth Games tourists with English translators, pamphlets and air-conditioned rooms. “We have a separate wing for the foreign tourists, which have translators to narrate the Ramlila in English, and to explain to them its significance. We are also handin out English-language pamphlets on the history of Ramlila,” says Ravi Jain of Shri Dharmik Leela Committee, which hosts the Ramlila in Red Fort Ground. Visitors couldn’t be more thrilled. “I’ve heard a lot about the Ramlila from my friends. Now that they have translators, it’ll be an exciting experience,” says Roslyn, who arrived from Ireland recently. Apart from tourists, expats living in the city are also happy about the move. *Navaratri at the Commonwealth Games* Source: www.hindustantimes.com NEW DELHI, October 13, 2010: Traditional clothes, tilak ceremonies, mehandi and reading scriptures are spome Navratri customs that not just Delhiites but also athletes from 71 other countries are observing in New Delhi. Participants at the Commonwealth Games Village were treated to the traditional tilak ceremony to mark the beginning of Navratri. “Players are not venturing out for security reasons, so we are trying to give them the festive flavor inside the village,” says Ashok Kumar, incharge of operations at the Games Village. Dandiya performances by various troupes have also been lined up as part of the daily cultural program. “The idea is to create a fun atmosphere,” adds Kumar. The players are enjoying every bit of it. “The celebrations are quite elaborate, and we’re loving it,” says Rashid Sarafu, a Nigerian athlete. The Delhi government has also arranged for city tours to take athletes to culture hotspots like Dilli Haat, where the mood is even more festive. “Foreign athletes who have been there have indulged in mehandi and bought bangles and colourful dupattas,” says Rina Ray, principal secretary, Delhi government. “We have also distributed booklets that have the whole Ramayana in English,” she adds. -- With best wishes S Chander
