Yogesh
Jammu, Oct 2: The historic Parade Ground, Dussehra Ground Gandhi Nagar and other parts of Jammu on Thursday evening transformed into a vibrant epicenter of devotion and jubilation as thousands converged to celebrate Vijayadashami, or Dussehra, with unparalleled enthusiasm.
The evening skies erupted in a mesmerizing display of fire and fervor during the iconic Ravan Dahan, where towering effigies of the demon king Ravana, along with his kin Meghnad and Kumbhakarna, were set ablaze in a symbolic triumph of good over evil.
This age-old ritual not only lit up the horizon but also kindled a profound sense of unity, righteousness, and cultural pride across the city.
As the sun dipped below the Tawi River’s horizon, an estimated crowd of 10,000 spanning families, youth, elders, and visitors from neighboring regions – packed the sprawling Parade Ground, one of Jammu’s most revered venues for such grand spectacles.
The air buzzed with the rhythmic beats of dhol drums, the soul-stirring chants of “Jai Shri Ram,” and the scent of incense mingling with festive sweets.
Children perched on parents’ shoulders, wide-eyed with anticipation, while groups of friends shared laughter amid the sea of saffron, orange, and green attire, reflecting the festival’s kaleidoscope of traditions.
The day’s festivities kicked off at dawn with sacred rituals honoring Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura, marking the culmination of the nine-day Navratri.
By midday, the ground had swelled with activity, elaborate Ramlila performances reenacted scenes from the Ramayana, drawing gasps and applause from the audience as actors in resplendent costumes brought Lord Rama’s epic battle to life. But it was Ravan Dahan around 6:30 pm that stole the show.
Crafted meticulously over weeks by a dedicated team of artisans, the central effigy of Ravana stood an imposing 80 feet tall, adorned with intricate bamboo frames, colorful fabrics, and symbolic weapons forged from lightweight materials.
Flanking it were 50-foot figures of Meghnad and Kumbhakarna, their forms crackling with dry grass and hay for the dramatic burn.
In a heartwarming testament to communal harmony, these effigies were sculpted by Muslim artisans like Ghiyasuddin Khan and his family, who have upheld this craft for over 40 years across more than 50 Dussehra events in Jammu and Kashmir.
Khan, speaking to reporters amid the final touches, emphasized, “This is our shared heritage – a bridge of brotherhood that burns away division, just as the flames consume Ravana.”
With a ceremonial arrow shot by a young volunteer portraying Lord Rama, the effigies ignited in a symphony of roaring flames and fireworks, painting the twilight in hues of gold and crimson. The blaze, lasting over 20 minutes, was accompanied by a cascade of sky lanterns and synchronized light shows, turning the evening into a celestial homage to dharma’s eternal victory.
Dussehra is also celebrated by Shri Lakshmi Narayan Mandir Management Trust, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu at in Dussehra Ground Gandhi Nagar, Jammu. A beautiful well decorated Rath boarding Lord Rama/Lakshman and Maa Sita in similar attire was prepared which passed through various parts of Gandhi Nagar before reaching Dussehra Ground for burning of Effigies of Ravana, Kumbh Karan and Meghnath.
Similarly effigies of Ravana, Kumbh Karan and Meghnath were set ablaze in Bahu Fort, Kol Kandoli Temple, Sainik Colony, and other districts of the division.
Meanwhile, the traditional Dussehra rituals of Shastra Puja (weapon worship) and Singhasan Puja (royal throne worship) were performed at the historic Amar Mahal Palace, Jammu, by members of the erstwhile Dogra Royal Family of Jammu and Kashmir.
The ceremonies were led by Rajkumar Martand Singh, Trustee of the Amar Mahal Palace. The palace was illuminated and adorned with flowers, adding grandeur to the celebrations.
According to the release, these age-old rituals symbolize the triumph of righteousness over evil, valor over fear, and truth over falsehood. Their observance pays tribute to the legacy of the Dogra rulers while preserving the cultural and spiritual ethos of Dussehra.
By upholding these traditions, the Dogra Royal Family reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Jammu’s cultural heritage and ensuring that these revered customs are passed on with dignity to future generations.
The occasion brought together members of the community in a spirit of harmony, reflecting the eternal message of Dussehra, the victory of good over evil.
