Indus Valley Times

BY AKSHYA ROUT

JAJPUR,OCTO 26 : Marking the triumph of good over evil, huge effigies of demon king-Ravan were set ablaze o the occasion of Dussehra in Sukinda on Tuesday.

A30-feet high and 15-feet wide effigy of Ravan was set up by the members of Kaliapani Durga Puja Committee here. The programme was graced by Rural Development, Skill Development & Technical Minster  & Sukinda MLA Pritiranjan Ghadai in presence of other guests.

 Ghadei Said The event, that marks the end of the nine day long Dussehra celebrations, was celebrated by setting aflame giant effigies of Demon King Ravan that were essentially packed with fire-crackers. Beyond the religious significance, the event was a huge attraction across all sections of visitors because of the attractive light and fire show.

“Ravana Podi has been a big draw at our puja pandal since past 35 years. Ravan symbolizes evil and we burn his effigy as a tradition and also as a medium of entertainment.

This year, we used a 30 ft Ravan and spent Rs 2 Lakhs to build it. Besides, we worked with the police, fire department and deployed 50 volunteer to ensure order during the two hour long event,” said Narayan Chandra dhir , President of Durga Puja Committee.

Ghadei Said Ravan Podi is celebrated on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami, which is considered the day of the victory of goddess Durga over the demon king Mahishasura after a nine-night, ten-day long battle. It is also believed that lord Ram killed demon king Ravan on the day after offering his prayers to Goddess Durga.