JAMMU, Oct 24:
Dussehra, the festival symbolising the victory of good over evil, was celebrated with fervour and enthusiasm in various areas of the Jammu region. The main celebrations took place at the Parade Ground in Jammu, where the effigies of the king Ravan, his son Meghnad, and Ravan’s brother Kumbhkaran were set on fire in the traditional manner.
A large crowd gathered at the Parade Ground to witness the Dussehra festivities. For decades, the main celebrations of Dussehra have been held at the Parade Ground in Jammu city, following traditional Hindu rituals.
Two Shobha Yatras, traditional processions, were organized in Jammu on the occasion of Dussehra. One Shobha Yatra commenced from the historic Deewana Mandir, while the second began at the historic Raghunath Temple.
The Shobha Yatra from the centuries-old Deewana Temple is organized by the Mandir Committee, which also conducts a ‘Ramleela’ for nine days during Navratras.
Another Shobha Yatra is initiated from the historic Raghunath Temple by the Sanatan Dharam Sabha (SDS). Traditionally, both these Shobha Yatras traverse different areas of Jammu City before culminating at the Parade Ground.
At the Parade Ground, Lord Ram, his brother Laxman, and Hanuman arrive on chariots as part of the Shobha Yatra. They set fire to the effigies of the demon king Ravan, his son Meghnad, and his brother Kumbhkaran, with Hanuman torching the effigy of Lanka.
This year, a substantial crowd returned to the Parade Ground after several years, as Dussehra celebrations were subdued due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
“We appeal to the government to kindly manage the affairs at Parade Ground at least a few days prior to Dussehra, as the heavy rush witnessed today could lead to a stampede,” said Parshotam Deedechi, President of the Sanatan Dharam Sabha.
Dussehra was also celebrated at numerous other locations across Jammu, including Sainik Colony, Talab Tillo, Muthi, Samba, Kathua, RS Pura, and more.
Dilbag Singh, the DGP of J&K UT, JMC Mayor Rajinder Sharma, DC Jammu, MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, and other dignitaries graced the Parade Ground with their presence during the Dussehra celebrations.
