The exception was a plain village in Maharashtra. Instead of lighting up the demon king Ravan’s effigy, the locals here presented him “arati.”
The immersion ritual of the Goddess’s idol on Thursday marked the end of the five-day Durga Puja festivities. The most well-known activity connected to this festival, which honours the triumph of good over evil, is “Ravan Dahan” or “Ravan Podi.”
On Vijay Dashami, “Ravan Dahan” was celebrated all throughout the nation. The exception was an unremarkable village in Maharashtra. Instead of lighting up the demon king Ravan’s effigy, the locals here presented him “arati.”
In actuality, the peasants frequently worship the demon king.
Welcome to Sangola Village in the Maharashtra district of Akola.
A massive, black stone statue of the demon ruler Ravan with 10 heads and 20 arms will capture your eye as you enter the settlement. Every Dusshera, the locals swarm around this monument and perform a “arati” for it.
Wednesdays are the same as Tuesdays. They have a justification for what they did.
We are all aware of what transpired during the Treta Yuga. The monarch of Lanka, Ravana, was a renowned scholar and musician who devotedly followed Lord Shiva. The Shiva Tandava Stotram is thought to have been written by Ravan. He had strength as well. He ruled over three planets due to his immense strength. But his ego was a weak spot in his defence.
He signed his own death warrant by taking Sita, the wife of Lord Ram. When Lord Ram invaded Sri Lanka, He engaged Ravan in combat. The demon king was slain on Dusshera day.
Every year, people commemorate the triumph of good over evil by celebrating Ravan Podi.
However, the residents of Sangola village think Ravan’s blessings are the reason they are able to live in peace. The villagers claim that Ravan worship has been practised for many years. It has been a 300-year tradition to worship the demon king.
Visitors come to this village every year to experience Dusshera’s uniqueness from near and far.
Prasanta Patnaik