Dussehra Celebrations in Srinagar and Delhi
Festivities in Srinagar
In Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, preparations for Dussehra are in full swing. Effigies of Ravana have been set up for the traditional ‘Ravana Dahan’. Ratan Chaku, the organizer and General Secretary of the Kashmiri Pandit Sangarsh Samiti, expressed his joy, noting that the entire community is excited to celebrate together, with participation from other communities as well.
Grand Celebrations in Delhi
Meanwhile, in Delhi, the Sri Ram Lila Society has erected India’s tallest Ravan effigy, standing at 211 feet in Dwarka’s Sector 10. The organizers have invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the event. Rajesh Gehlot, Chairman of the organizing committee, shared that this year’s theme is inspired by the old Ram Mandir temple in Ayodhya. The entry gates are designed like South Indian ‘Gopuram’ temples. The committee has auditioned over 400 artists, selecting fresh talent for the performances. These artists undergo three months of practice under the guidance of dedicated directors.
Security Measures
To ensure safety, the event in Delhi is secured by over 50 Delhi Police personnel, 200 volunteers, and 100+ civil officers. The DCP receives daily reports, and the SHO conducts regular rounds to maintain security.
Doubts Revealed
Dussehra -: Dussehra is a popular Hindu festival celebrated in India, marking the victory of good over evil. It commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana.
Srinagar -: Srinagar is a city in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. It is known for its beautiful landscapes and is a popular tourist destination.
Ravana -: Ravana is a character from the Hindu epic Ramayana. He was a demon king who kidnapped Lord Rama’s wife, Sita, leading to a great battle.
Effigy -: An effigy is a large model or representation of a person, often used in festivals. During Dussehra, effigies of Ravana are burned to symbolize the victory of good over evil.
Kashmiri Pandit Sangarsh Samiti -: The Kashmiri Pandit Sangarsh Samiti is an organization representing the Kashmiri Pandit community, which is a group of Hindus from the Kashmir region.
Sri Ram Lila Society -: The Sri Ram Lila Society is a group that organizes Ram Lila, a dramatic folk re-enactment of the life of Lord Rama, especially during Dussehra.
Dwarka -: Dwarka is a residential area in Delhi, India. It is known for hosting large community events, including Dussehra celebrations.
Ram Mandir -: Ram Mandir refers to a temple dedicated to Lord Rama. In this context, it inspires the Dussehra celebrations and the creation of the Ravan effigy.