Ramlila — literally "Rama's play" — is the dramatic folk re-enactment of the life of Lord Ram, culminating in the ten-day battle between Ram and Ravan as described in the Ramayana. The tradition originates in the Indian subcontinent and is staged annually over ten or more successive nights during the auspicious period of Sharad Navratra, which marks the beginning of the autumn festive season.

Performances are timed to culminate on Vijayadashami, commemorating the victory of Lord Ram over the demon king Ravan. On that final day the actors are taken in procession through the city, leading up to the mela ground where the enactment of the final battle and the Ravan Dahan takes place.