Places in India where Raavan is worshipped: While the widespread practice in India involves burning Raavans effigy on Vijaya Dashami to symbolize the triumph of good over evil, there are some unique regions where Raavan is revered instead. Despite the centuries-long tradition of demonizing him, Raavan is venerated in certain communities due to cultural associations or his exceptional traits.As India celebrates Vijaya Dashami 2024, a festival that marks Lord Ramas victory over Raavan, lets explore the places where Raavan is worshipped instead of being vilified.Jodhpur, Rajasthan: From the kingdom of Mandor In parts of Jodhpur, Raavan is not seen as a symbol of evil, but as a significant figure tied to local culture. It is believed that Raavan was married to Mandodari, the daughter of King Mandawar, whose kingdom, Mandor, was situated just 9 km from Jodhpur. As Mandodari is considered a daughter of the region, locals mourn Raavans death instead of celebrating his defeat. They refrain from participating in Dussehra events and do not witness Raavans effigy burning, out of respect for Mandodari.Noidas Bisrakh: Raavans birthplaceIn Bisrakh village located in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, Raavan is believed to have been born, and he is regarded as a Maha Brahmana in this region. Due to the belief that killing a Brahman is considered a grave sin in Hinduism, the locals worship Raavan. During Navratri, they perform yagnas to honor him and pay tribute to his memory, viewing him not just as a demon, but as a learned Brahmin.Kanpurs Dashanan Temple: Unlocking Raavan for a dayKanpurs Shivala locality is home to the famous Dashanan Temple, which is dedicated to Raavan. Unlike most temples, this one remains locked for the entire year, except on Vijaya Dashami. On this day, Raavan is ceremonially worshipped with chants of Jai Lankesh and Lankapati Naresh ki jai ho. After the rituals, the temple is sealed again until the next Dussehra, making it a unique tradition that celebrates Raavans intellect and power.Gond Tribe of Maharashtra honors Raavan, son MeghnadIn Maharashtras Gadchiroli district, the Gond tribe worships Raavan and his son, Meghnad. The tribe believes that the Valmiki Ramayana does not portray Raavan as a demon and emphasizes that he never harmed Sita, Lord Rams wife. The Gond people revere Raavan during their tribal festival, Falgun, where prayers and offerings are made in his honor.Karnatakas Kolar: Worshipping Raavan for His DevotionIn Karnatakas Kolar district, Raavan is worshipped alongside Lord Shiva, as he was one of Shivas greatest devotees. During the harvest festival, the locals conduct a procession featuring an idol of Raavan with ten heads and twenty arms. His devotion to Lord Shiva is celebrated, and he is revered for his piety and dedication to the Supreme God.Himachal Pradeshs Kangra: Respecting Raavans devotionIn Himachal Pradeshs Kangra district, the locals believe that Raavan worshipped Lord Shiva in this very place, and as a result, was granted immense blessings. As a sign of respect to Lord Shiva and his devotee, Raavans effigy is not burned here. Instead, the people of Kangra honor Raavans devotion to the deity and abstain from the symbolic destruction of his image.
