For renowned artistic director and choreographer Sumit Khetan, founder of Sumit Khetan Entertainment, the festival of Navratri is not just about the vibrant garba nights and the dandiya festivities that capture the hearts of millions worldwide. While many celebrate Navratri with music, dance, and grand concerts, Sumit has a deeply personal and spiritual commitment—to the age-old tradition of Ramleela.
“I have been doing Ramleela since I was 7, long before I became a dancer, choreographer, or director,” says Khetan, who dedicates all nine days of Navratri to this religious event. His involvement in Ramleela has remained constant throughout the years, a passion that transcends his professional life.
Despite the craze for garba, which he enjoys, Sumit’s unwavering focus during Navratri is on Ramleela. “It’s one of my favorite things too,” he acknowledges about garba, “but Ramleela happens at the same time, and it gives me a spiritual connection that I cannot let go of. It gives me peace for the entire year.”
This dedication means that during Navratri, Sumit turns down all other work, focusing solely on this devotional performance. For him, Ramleela is not just a religious duty but a path to inner peace. “For these 9 days, performing Ramleela gives me 365 days of peace of mind.”
