Jalandhar comes alive with Dasehra festivities

The city was in full festive spirit today as the Dasehra celebrations took centre stage, marking the peak of the ongoing festival season that began with Navratri. Hundreds of residents flocked to various locations throughout the city to witness the traditional burning of Ravana’s effigies, a ritual that embodies the victory of good over evil.

Key events took place at Burlton Park, where the 146-year-old Shri Ramlila Committee Mandir Nauhariyan organised its annual Dasehra programme. Over the years, the site has become a cornerstone of the city’s festive calendar, attracting large crowds from distant places who gather to witness the towering effigies of ten-headed Ravana, Meghnat and Kumbhakarna being set ablaze amid the crackling sound of fireworks.

The celebrations were enriched by the opening of the Maa Kali temple at Shri Devi Talab Mandir today, as these remain closed throughout the year. The festival gave devotees a special opportunity to visit these temples.

The streets were bustling with activity throughout the day, particularly outside the popular sweet shops. A palpable excitement filled the air as residents hurried to purchase ‘jalebis’, a sweet synonymous with the festivities. “Jalebis are not just a delicacy; they represent the sweetness of victory and the joy of togetherness during this auspicious time," said Rajesh Sharma, owner of a local sweet shop. His establishment was filled with customers sharing stories and laughter, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere.

Meanwhile, the standout feature of this year’s celebrations was the installation of towering effigies at the Sai Das School grounds by the Shri Mahakali Mandir Dasehra Committee. The effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnat, standing 100, 90 and 80 feet tall, respectively, attracted significant attention. The committee also arranged for free drinking water, medical facilities and parking to accommodate the large number of attendees.

Dasehra festivities were held in multiple localities throughout the city, including Model House, Central Town, Adarsh Nagar, Friends Colony, Kirti Nagar, Bhargava Camp, Gandhi Camp, Satnam Nagar, Jalandhar Cantt and Beant Singh Park.

With the influx of visitors, the administration and police had to tighten security in the city. Senior police officials said about 1,000 personnel had been deputed across the city to ensure the safety and smooth flow of the festivities. Special checkpoints were established at the bus stand, railway station and various other key locations to maintain public order, along with 25 traffic checkpoints set up to manage the increased vehicular flow.