Every year, as the festive air looms, Greenwood City in Gurgaon brightens up with devotion, colour, and community spirit.
The much-loved Bal Ramayan, has now become a treasured annual custom, the residents gather to celebrate the eternal tale of Lord Ram, retold with a touch of innocence, creativity, and faith by the little ones of the Greenwood City.
What started as a small community initiative in 2013, by Monica Batra, has now become a yearly celebration that people look forward to. Residents at Greenwood City collaborate to plan, decorate, fund, and perform, turning it into more than a show, a ritual that brings generations together.
Bal Ramayan, is a creative method to introduce the children about Indian culture, Hindu philosophy, and the timeless values of the Ramayan.
A family that shares her vision
Monica’s real strength comes from her family, including her husband, Pradeep Batra, and her children Madhur and Mehak. Their continued support helps her in visualising her dreams year after year.
Madhur’s Black Box Studio adds a professional touch with advanced sound and music production. On the other hand, her daughter-in-law Yashita’s soulful bhajans add emotional touch to every performance.
Studio sessions: Learning beyond the stage
The Bal Ramayan may be the highlight of the year, but Monica’s teaching continues all year.
She conducts weekly sessions at the Black Box Studio, where children learn the art of performance, not just through practice, but through experience.
Through these professional training sessions, children explore storytelling, voice modulation, expression, and teamwork, developing not just creativity but also enhancing their confidence for the long run. For many young participants, it’s not just a class; it’s an experience they’ll carry for life.
Faith as her guiding light
As a firm believer of Nichiren Buddhism, Monice idolises the mantra “I am determined. I will win” She has faced her share of challenges in life and has always risen through them with grace and gratitude. Her belief in compassion, positivity, and perseverance impacts everything she does on and off the stage.
A legacy of love and light
In a world where people are continuously disconnecting from their roots, Greenwood City’s Bal Ramayan stands as an epitome of cultural continuity. It not just teaches the younger generation about history but also connects modern families to timeless values.
Explore Monica Batra’s world online—check her social media for updates and more:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@mb432111?si=rish1gNMsIcaTSbJ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monicabatra12?igsh=MXNvcmZrazEyajByNg==
