Rio de Janeiro [Brazil], November 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended a captivating performance of the Ramayana by students of the Vishwa Vidya Gurukulam during his visit to Brazil on Tuesday. The Gurukulam, a Brazilian organization dedicated to promoting Vedanta and Sanskrit, showcased this Indian epic with heartfelt reverence.
The event began with Jonas Masetti, also known as Acharya Vishwanath, the founder of Vishwa Vidya Gurukulam, welcoming PM Modi by reciting a Sanskrit mantra. Speaking about the significance of the Ramayana, Masetti emphasized its message of Dharma (righteousness).
“Ramayana is a tribute to Dharma. Ram represents Dharma, and being in touch with Ram Katha purifies us and inspires a better way of living,” he shared. Masetti also revealed the dedication behind the performance, which took six years to prepare.
He added, “PM Modi was deeply impacted by the performance. He encouraged Indian youth to embrace their rich cultural heritage. It saddens me to hear that Indian youth are drifting from their Vedic traditions. The Western way may seem appealing but is often dry and lacking depth. India’s culture is a treasure within their homes.”
The Performers Share Their Experiences
The performance featured students who have devoted years to studying Sanskrit and Vedanta. Mariana Viana, who played Lord Ram, expressed her honor in performing for the Indian Prime Minister.
“I’ve been studying Vedanta, Sanskrit, and mantras for eight years. Performing the Ramayana—the journey of Ram against Adharma (unrighteousness)—is a blessing, especially for PM Modi,” she said.
Gleifer Vaz Alves, who portrayed Lord Hanuman, highlighted Hanuman’s embodiment of devotion. “Preparing for this role took over a year, but my studies in Sanskrit span more than three years. Hanuman’s devotion to Dharma is the main lesson of the Ramayana,” he explained.
PM Modi at the G20 Summit
The performance coincided with PM Modi’s participation in the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Brazil, where he underscored India’s commitment to combating hunger and poverty on a global scale. On the sidelines of the summit, he also held the second India-Australia bilateral meeting, strengthening diplomatic ties.
The Ramayana performance in Brazil serves as a powerful example of India’s cultural influence worldwide and the universal appeal of its ancient traditions.
