Bhubaneswar, Oct 22: The city of Bhubaneswar celebrated Vijayadashami with grand Ravan Dahan ceremonies at seven locations, marking the victory of good over evil. The celebrations were marked by chants of “Jai Shri Ram,” traditional music, fireworks and enthusiastic participation by devotees, as crowds gathered to witness the symbolic burning of the demon king Ravana.

As the appointed time arrived, the effigies of Ravana were set ablaze amid loud cheers, Haribol chants and traditional ululation. Colourful fireworks illuminated the night sky, adding to the festive atmosphere.

At Baramunda, the Baramunda Durga Puja Committee organised the Ravan Dahan ceremony at Kali Mandir Ground, where a 60-foot effigy of Ravana was burnt. Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi attended the event along with the president, secretary, vice-president and other members of the puja committee.

The Sundarpada-Kapilaprasad Durga Puja Cultural Council organised the burning of a 50-foot effigy at the Kapilaprasad football ground.

Similarly, the Nuapalli Durga Puja Samiti held its Ravan Dahan programme at Kasturba Playground, where a 50-foot effigy was set on fire. The event was attended by the committee’s adviser Nabakishore Behera, Berhampur MP Pradeep Panigrahy, senior BJP leader Priyadarshi Mishra, social worker Rozalin Pattasahani and other committee members.

At Bankuala, a towering 70-foot effigy of Ravana was burnt on the banks of the Daya River. According to Bankuala village committee president Kabiraj Swain, a large poster featuring a cockroach was also displayed beside the effigy. The poster was reportedly associated with the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP).

Meanwhile, the Koradakanta Durga Puja Samiti organised the burning of a 65-foot effigy of Ravana. Village committee president Gyanaranjan Jena performed the ritual of setting the effigy on fire.

Ravan Dahan ceremonies were also held at Naharakantha and the Gopalpur playground, drawing large crowds of spectators.

Elaborate security arrangements

The Commissionerate Police made extensive security arrangements at all Ravan Dahan venues to ensure the safety of spectators. Access to areas within approximately 100 metres of the effigies was restricted, and barricades were installed to keep the crowds at a safe distance.

Fire service personnel and electrical teams were deployed at all locations and remained on alert throughout the celebrations.

The festivities concluded with the symbolic triumph of righteousness over evil, as thousands of people gathered to witness one of the major highlights of Vijayadashami in the Odisha capital.