The Supreme Court on Thursday allowed the Ram Lila festival to continue at a government school in Uttar Pradesh, staying a September 22 order by the Allahabad High Court that had banned the event. The high court had raised concerns over plans to set up a permanent structure at the school for the annual performance.
A three-judge bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant, Ujjal Bhuyan, and N. Kotiswar Singh, said the high court should direct the Firozabad district administration to find an alternative venue for future events so that students are not disturbed. The Supreme Court noted that the festival had already begun when the high court issued its order.
The apex court observed, “It is also stated that the Ram Lila festival has already commenced on 14.09.2025, and no inconvenience is being caused to the students, for such activities are taking place only in the evening from 7 pm to 10 pm.” It highlighted that the playground had been used for Ram Lila for over 100 years and suggested that a suitable alternative site be identified for future festivals.
The court added that the festivities could continue on the condition that students’ activities are not disrupted. It also advised the high court to hear all stakeholders, including the original petitioner, before passing any final directions.
The Allahabad High Court will now play a role in deciding a permanent site for the festival in the future, ensuring that both the school’s activities and the cultural event can be accommodated.
