New Delhi, Sep 27 (NationPress) As preparations for Dussehra ramp up across India, the renowned Tatarpur Ravana Market in Delhi's Tagore Garden, a hub for effigy crafting for the past 70 years, is alive with activity once more. This year, the festive enthusiasm has reached international heights, with local artisans receiving orders from the US and Canada for effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna.

For the first time in years, smaller Ravana effigies produced in Tatarpur are being exported abroad. Mahendra 'Ravana Wale', a 76-year-old craftsman with over five decades of experience, expressed his delight, stating, “Last year, there were no international orders. But this time, I’ve already received two, one from the US and one from Canada.”

The effigies, each measuring approximately two and a half feet, are set to be shipped via courier soon.

“There’s still time. I’m hopeful more orders will come,” he added.

Mahendra, who carries on the family tradition, has witnessed the market's transformation over the years.

“Preparations are going well this year. Last year brought heavy losses, but things are looking better now. I’ve been doing this since childhood, and the love for the art keeps me going,” he remarked.

Another artisan from the market shared his positive outlook: “We’ve received nearly 50 orders so far. The work is almost complete, just the finishing touches remain.”

Dussehra, also referred to as Vijayadashami, symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Celebrated on the 10th day of the Hindu month of Ashvina, it marks the end of the nine nights of Sharad Navratri. The festival commemorates Lord Rama’s conquest over the ten-headed demon king Ravana, who had kidnapped Rama’s wife, Sita — a narrative immortalized in the epic Ramayana. The term Dussehra is derived from the Sanskrit words dasha (ten) and hara (defeat).

Throughout India, Dussehra Melas unite communities in vibrant celebration, showcasing street food, amusement rides, handicrafts, and performances that embody the spirit of Indian festivities. With Ravana effigies now making their way overseas, the essence of Dussehra is crossing borders, connecting the diaspora with their traditions in a truly fiery fashion.