In a striking symbol of defiance against forces that have shed innocent blood, Ahilyanagar witnessed the burning of a 51-foot effigy of terrorists on Vijayadashami. The event, inspired by the spirit of Ravan Dahan, was organised to remind citizens of India’s relentless fight against terrorism, particularly after the recent Pahalgam terror attack. The effigy, initially designed to resemble Tipu Sultan, faced objections from police and local Islamic groups. Following which, the organisers modified it to represent infamous terrorists with their names and photos prominently displayed. The message was clear terrorism, not any community, is the true Ravana of today’s India, and it must be destroyed.
Effigy Depicts Terrorists Behind Pahalgam Attack
The organisers clarified that the effigy was not aimed at hurting religious sentiments but was a direct representation of terrorism. Among the faces displayed were Hafiz Saeed, Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar, and the three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists Suleman, Afghan, and Jibran who were killed during Operation Mahadev. These terrorists were directly linked to the Pahalgam attack that shook the nation. The burning was a symbolic act, showing that India does not forget the blood of its innocent civilians and martyrs and will continue to crush terror networks with strength and determination.
Police Advisory and Organisers’ Clarification
Initially, when the effigy resembled Tipu Sultan, it sparked objections. The police advised the organisers to avoid potential communal flare-ups and ensure the symbolism stayed focused on terrorism. Respecting the suggestion, the organisers redesigned the effigy into a broader representation of terror, clearly labelled with the word “terrorist.” The burning was then carried out without incident, reinforcing the core message there is no place for terror in New India. The organisers emphasized that the event was not directed at any community but was solely aimed at showcasing the nation’s resolve against forces that attack civilians and soldiers alike.
President Murmu’s Powerful Message at Red Fort
The symbolism of good triumphing over evil echoed nationally as President Droupadi Murmu participated in Ravan Dahan celebrations at Delhi’s Red Fort. She joined citizens in commemorating Dussehra and drew parallels between Lord Ram’s triumph over Ravana and India’s victories against terrorism. She invoked Operation Sindoor, the cross-border strike carried out on May 7 against terror infrastructure in Pakistan, praising the armed forces for defending the nation’s dignity. Her words reaffirmed the theme of this year’s Vijayadashami that terrorism is the Ravana of our age, and India shall continue to fight until every such evil is eradicated.
Terrorism is Today’s Ravana
The Ahilyanagar effigy burning was more than a local event; it was a national statement. By replacing the effigy’s face with that of terrorists, the organisers highlighted that India’s biggest enemy today is not mythology’s Ravana but the modern-day Ravanas of terror networks. With operations like Mahadev and Sindoor, India has shown that it will hunt down those who dare to spill innocent blood. The message of this Vijayadashami was loud and clear in New India, terrorists will meet the same fate as Ravana, consumed by the fire of justice and patriotism.