Nationwide celebration of Vijayadashami: Effigies of Ravan burnt, marking victory of Good over Evil

The festival of Vijayadashami was celebrated across the country with great enthusiasm on Thursday. Symbolising the triumph of virtue over sin and truth over falsehood, gigantic effigies of demon king Ravan were set ablaze in grand ceremonies.

In New Delhi, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, attended the Ravan Podi at the historic Ramlila Maidan. 

Meanwhile, in Bhubaneswar, Ravan's effigy burning festivals were organised at seven prominent locations — Baramunda, Naharakanta, Badagada, Koradakanta, Bankual Gopalpur, Patharagadia, and Kapilprasad football ground.

Despite challenges posed by the rains during the preparations, organisers reportedly made every effort to keep the celebrations as entertaining and vibrant as possible.  After the effigies were set afire, spectacular fireworks were on display during the Ravan Podi events. 

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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.

In Cuttack, the Baliyatra Ground also hosted a grand Ravan Podi festival.

The festivities of Durga Puja culminated with the Ravan Podi, the burning of gigantic effigies of the demon king Ravan. On Vijayadasham day, the demon king’s effigy is burned to mark the victory of Lord Ram against the ten-headed demon king Ravan.