Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu sets Ravan’s effigy ablaze at Shimla temple

Chief Minister (CM) Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today paid obeisance at Hanuman Temple in Jakhu, Shimla, on the auspicious occasion of Dasehra and prayed for the prosperity of the state and its people. He also set effigies of Ravan, Meghnath and...

Tribune News Service

Shimla, Updated At : 07:02 AM Oct 13, 2024 IST

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presses a button on remote to set Ravan’s effigy on fire. Tribune Photo: Lalit Kumar

**Effigies of Ravan, Kumbhkarna and Meghnad burn at the Jakhu temple in Shimla on Saturday. Tribune Photo: Lalit Kumar**

During celebrations, CM Sukhu said, “Dasehra is the festival of the victory of good over evil, truth over falsehood. It teaches us to live in peace and harmony. The culture of Himachal is of brotherhood and festivals. Ours is the land of deities. I congratulate all on the occasion of Dasehra and pray to God that there’s peace and harmony in the state.” He urged people to work collectively for the eradication of drug abuse from society. CM wished that the Dasehra festival brings happiness, peace and prosperity in the lives of the people of the state.

Shimla (Urban) MLA Harish Janartha, Municipal Corporation Mayor Surinder Chauhan, councillors, representatives of various organisations, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, Municipal Commissioner Bhupender Kumar Atri and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

To celebrate Dasehra, a 45-foot tall effigy of Ravan, 40-foot effigy of Meghnad and 35-foot effigy of Kumbhkarna were made at the Hanuman Temple in Jakhu hills. Thousands of devotees from across the town flocked to the temple to witness the Dasehra festival celebrations which began with fireworks.

Community meal was also prepared for devotees on the occasion. Every year, a grand Dasehra celebrations are organised at the famous Jakhu Temple. All preparations regarding the festival celebrations were made by officials of the district administration.

While the entry of private vehicles was prohibited to avoid traffic jams, arrangements of Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) taxis was made to provide transportation facilities to devotees so that they could reach the temple sans inconvenience to witness the festival celebrations.