Ramayana on the Big Screen: Fed Square Hosts a Night of Silent Films and Live Music
Fed Square will transform into a cultural hub on Tuesday, 25 February 2025, as classic Indian silent films meet the dynamic sounds of live music. Starting at 8 pm, the iconic big screen will showcase a series of legendary tales from India’s early cinema, brought to life with an original live score by Hari Sivanesan and the South Asian Music Ensemble.
This family-friendly, all-ages event invites visitors to experience the magic of India’s cinematic heritage in a relaxed outdoor setting. Attendees can bring a picnic to share as they enjoy this unique blend of history, music, and storytelling in Melbourne’s heart.
The screening will feature four celebrated films directed by Baburao Painter and Dadasaheb Phalke, pioneers of Indian silent cinema. These rare works have been meticulously restored and digitised by the National Film Archive of India, preserving their rich legacy. Highlights include Sati Savitri (1927), a tale of unwavering devotion from the Mahabharata, and Raja Harishchandra (1913), India’s first feature film. Other screenings include Shree Krishna Janma (1918), depicting the miraculous birth of Krishna, and Lanka Dahan (1918), which follows Hanuman’s daring quest in the Ramayana.
The films will be accompanied by an immersive live score composed by Hari Sivanesan, an internationally renowned veena virtuoso and composer. Sivanesan’s innovative approach fuses South Indian classical traditions with contemporary sounds, creating an evocative musical experience. His global career, which began under the mentorship of Pandit Ravi Shankar, includes collaborations with the BBC Proms, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, and other prestigious platforms.
Presented by Fed Square in partnership with Insite Arts, this free event is part of the Open Air in the Square series. It offers a rare opportunity to witness the intersection of India’s early cinematic artistry with contemporary music, making it a must-see for film enthusiasts and families alike.
For more information visit https://fedsquare.com/events/ramayana-and-other-tales-with-live-score-by-hari-sivanesan
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