Ravan Podi held across Odisha, marks end of Durga Puja festivities 

The festivities of Durga Puja came to an end with the Ravan Podi, the burning of gigantic effigies of the demon king Ravan across the state on Vijaya Dasami today. 

The Ravan Podi event, which marks the victory of good over evil, was held at six places in Bhubaneswar. They were Baramunda, Jharpada, Koradakanta, Tomando, Chhatabar and Naharakanta. After the effigies were set afire, spectacular fireworks were on display during the Ravan Podi events. To witness Ravan Podi and the fireworks show, a large number of people turned up. While the puja committees made elaborate arrangements for the Ravan Podi and fireworks, the Commissionerate Police took measures to ensure the safety of the people. Fire engines were also kept ready at the concerned grounds. 

“Last year I couldn’t witness the Ravan Podi here. To see the fireworks, I had to wait for two hours. It was really breathtaking. I am very happy,” said a reveller at Baramunda.  

Adequate security arrangements 

Informing about the measures taken for the Ravan Podi events, Bhubaneswar DCP Prateek Singh said, “Keeping the guidelines of Ravan Podi in view, security arrangements have been made. We have also taken care of traffic and vehicle parking management. We have made arrangements so that traffic movement is not affected on the highway. We are keeping a watch on the events through a central control room.”

Also read: In these places, Ravan’s effigies not burnt on Dusshera; know the reasons  

Likewise, the Ravan Podi was also celebrated in other places like Keonjhar, Rourkela, Sambalpur, Baripada, Berhampur etc. 
On Vijaya Dasami day, the demon king’s effigy is burned to mark the victory of Lord Ram against the ten-headed demon king Ravan.