Getting high on Raavan

On Dussehra, HT City takes a look at some of the tallest and grandest effigies of Raavan around the Capital. Read on to know which is the best place for you to be on Dussehra.

Today, Raavan will burn across the Capital — in the form of small ten-headed effigies made by children, tiny readymade toys, and even those that are larger than life. Of these, three of the largest effigies will be burnt right next to each other in the Lal Quila Maidan.

HT Image

The tallest of the three is 110 feet tall and comes with an automated sword. Part of the Lav Kush Ramlila, one of the oldest in the Capital, it’ll be accompanied by effigies of Raavan’s brothers — Kumbhakaran (100 ft tall) and Meghnath (90 ft tall). “It will also look like tears are coming out of Raavan’s eyes,” says Arjun Kumar of the Ramlila.

Next in line is the 90-foot effigy created by the Nav Shri Dharmik Lila Committee. “Our Raavan will have shining red eyes and a 3D effect, so spectators will feel that Raavan is watching them,” says Prakash Barathi of the committee.

The Shree Dharmik Leela Committee, a third Ramlila in the same grounds, will have an 88-foot Raavan. “He will be the loudest Raavan — with loads of firecrackers. Ours is a more traditional celebration,” says Ravi Jain of the committee.

Another interesting effigy is at Ashok Vihar. Though it’s not as tall, the Raavan will speak as he burns. “He’ll say, ‘Hey Ram Hey Ram’,” says Mahendra Nagpal of Ashok Vihar Ramlila Committee.

Other raavans to watch out for
Shree Dharmik Lila in Noida will have a 95-ft Raavan effigy at the City Centre Ground in Sector 32
Great India Place in Noida will have a 90-ft Raavan effigy
Indraprastha Vistar Ramlila Committee in East Delhi will have a 50-ft Raavan