For nearly 50 years, Mount Madonna School in California has been staging a unique and heartwarming performance of the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. Every year, students from preschool to high school come together to put on a colorful and musical version of the story as part of their end-of-year celebration.
The show blends dance, music, drama, and even acrobatics, with younger children playing forest animals and older students taking on lead roles like Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, Lord Shiva, and Hanuman. This year’s production, held from June 5 to June 8 at the Mexican Heritage Plaza in San Jose, marked the 46th year of this tradition.
Over 200 students participated, showcasing a beautiful mix of ballet, Indian classical dance, and original songs. The play is more than just a performance—it’s a school-wide celebration supported by teachers, parents, alumni, and staff who volunteer each year to bring the epic to life. The tradition began in the 1970s, inspired by yoga teacher Baba Hari Dass and the Hanuman Fellowship. Since then, it has grown into one of the longest-running Ramayana productions outside India.
The experience helps students not only develop artistic skills but also learn the deep cultural and moral lessons of the Ramayana. Some senior students even travel to India to study the characters more deeply and experience Indian culture firsthand. Each year, the play evolves, keeping some parts traditional while adding new elements. The school’s dedication to telling this story shows how timeless tales can connect people across generations and cultures—even from thousands of miles away.
