Vijayadashami brings communities together; Cuttack & Bhubaneswar light up for grand ‘Ravan Podi’

The twin cities of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar have been immersed in gusto and cheer to celebrate the auspicious festival of Vijayadashami which signifies the victory of good over evil and commemorates the triumph of Lord Ram over the ten-headed demon king Ravan.

The day also symbolizes Maa Durga’s victory over Mahishasura and marks the tenth and final day of Durga Puja. People from all walks of life are enthusiastically participating in the Dussehra celebrations with great zeal. 

On the last day of Dussehra, people are thronging puja pandals to have a glimpse of Maa Durga and seek her blessings. This year, the festive spirit is seen everywhere in all its traditional colours and gaiety.

“Cuttack is famous for Durga Puja. So, I have come all the way from Bhubaneswar. I have almost visited all the mandaps here,” said a local.

Similarly, another local said, “Today is the last day, so we are trying to visit as many pandals. Later, in the evening we will go to witness the Ravan Podi followed by firecracker works.”

The Durga festivities will end with ‘Ravan Podi’ tonight. The effigies of Ravan will be burnt to ashes followed by colourful fireworks. Effigies of Ravan in varying sizes have been set up before he will be consigned to flames.

In Bhubaneswar, six puja committees – Jharpada, Baramunda, Naharkanta, Koradakanta, Chhatabara and Tamando - have been granted permission to conduct ‘Ravan Podi’. 

Worth mentioning, On Vijayadashami day, the demon king’s effigy is burned to mark the victory of Lord Ram against the ten-headed demon king Ravan.