As the Dussehra festival approaches, the National Capital region is witnessing Ravana effigies in varying sizes and shapes being crafted across the city. Now, the Sri Ramlila Society is laying claim to have erected the tallest Ravana effigy in India. Standing at 211 feet in Dwarka’s Sector 10, the enormous structure took over four months to prepare and install. The committee, led by chairman Rajesh Gehlot, held auditions of over 400 artistes from Delhi-NCR to select fresh talent to bring this year’s Ramlila to life.
“We always strive to present the Ramlila in the most beautiful way possible, paying close attention to both the decorations and the performances,” said Gehlot. The theme of this year’s celebration takes inspiration from the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, with the entry gates to the venue designed in the style of South Indian temples known as Gopuram.
The Ravana effigy is burnt during the festival of Dussehra. It symbolises the triumph of good over evil, the festival's central theme. Gehlot shared that his committee had invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders to attend the ceremony. Last year, Modi had set fire to the effigy at the same location.
Security has been tightened as large crowds are expected to gather for the celebrations. Over 50 Delhi Police personnel, 200 volunteers and more than 100 civil officers will be deployed to safeguard the event, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees.
Dussehra, also known as Vijaya Dashami, marks the victory of Lord Ram over the demon king Ravana. The demon king is often depicted with 10 heads, representing pride, hate, lust, fear, attachment, anger, ego, greed, insensibility and envy. The burning of the Ravana, Kumbhkaran and Meghnath effigies is a symbolic act that takes place across the country to celebrate this victory. Dussehra will be observed on October 12 this year, with grand festivities and vibrant celebrations planned nationwide.
(With inputs from multiple news sources)