Are Final Preparations Ready for Ravan Dahan Amid Rain in Ranchi?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ravan Dahan is a key part of Dussehra celebrations in Ranchi.
- Effigies of Ravan, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnath are central to the event.
- Over 76 years of tradition upheld by the Punjabi Hindu community.
- Fireworks and cultural performances enhance the festivities.
- The event signifies the enduring victory of good over evil.
Ranchi, Oct 1 (NationPress) Final preparations are actively taking place for the spectacular Ravan Dahan event, which serves as the pinnacle of Dussehra festivities in Ranchi. Despite the challenges posed by sporadic rain, the excitement remains undeterred as colossal effigies of Ravan, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnath have been set up at the historic Morabadi Ground.
For 76 years, the Punjabi Hindu community in Ranchi has continued the tradition of hosting Ravan Dahan, a symbolic representation of the victory of good over evil. Since Jharkhand's formation, this event has expanded in size and importance, often attended by the Chief Minister.
This year, the enthusiasm is infectious, with efforts focused on creating a more extravagant and lively celebration than ever before. A towering 70-foot effigy of Ravana, alongside massive figures of Kumbhakarna and Meghnath, is being prepared for the impressive burning ceremony.
The festivities will also include a stunning fireworks display, coordinated by expert teams traveling from Mumbai and Kolkata. Organisers anticipate that the fireworks will be one of the event's main attractions, drawing a large crowd eager for both tradition and spectacular entertainment.
The estimated expenditure for this year's event is approximately Rs 20 lakh. Cultural performances will be a key feature, showcasing local talent from Jharkhand as well as celebrated artists from Uttar Pradesh.
According to Rajesh Mehra, General Secretary of the Punjabi Hindu Community, “Preparations are in full swing. Stage and seating arrangements are being finalised. A team from Uttar Pradesh will perform, and our chief guest will be Chief Minister Hemant Soren.”
The Ravan Dahan tradition, representing the triumph of good over evil, is rooted in the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, where Lord Rama defeats the demon king Ravana, who had kidnapped his wife, Sita.
Dussehra is celebrated in a variety of ways throughout India. In North India, particularly in cities like Delhi and Varanasi, Ravan Dahan attracts huge crowds. In West Bengal, Dussehra signifies the conclusion of Durga Puja, culminating in the immersion of Goddess Durga's idol. Meanwhile, in Maharashtra and Karnataka, the festival, referred to as Dasara, is marked by grand parades and cultural exhibitions.