India's Tallest Ravana Effigy Face Mysteriously Survives Flames During Kota Dussehra Celebration

During Kota's Dussehra festivities, a remarkable incident occurred when a massive Ravana effigy's face remained unburned while the rest of the structure was engulfed in flames. (Representational)

In Rajasthan's Kota, spectators witnessed an unusual sight during Dussehra celebrations when a colossal 233-foot Ravana effigy was set ablaze but its face mysteriously remained intact. The elaborate structure, prepared for the traditional festival burning, experienced a technical failure in its sensor-based ignition system, creating an unexpected spectacle for onlookers.

Municipal fire brigade personnel eventually intervened, employing a hydraulic crane to complete the burning ritual. After considerable effort, the flames finally consumed the effigy's stubborn face, concluding the ceremonial destruction.

This year's Ravana effigy claimed the title of India's tallest, exceeding the previous 210-foot record established in Delhi in 2024. The main effigy was accompanied by 60-foot structures of Kumbhkaran and Meghnath, which were also set alight as part of the traditional celebrations.

The automated burning system's sensor malfunction necessitated manual intervention from the fire brigade. Despite this technical challenge, thousands of attendees gathered at the Dussehra grounds were able to witness the completion of the iconic ritual thanks to the quick response of emergency personnel.

The 132nd National Dussehra Fair opened with considerable fanfare, graced by distinguished guests including Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma. Ijyaraj Singh, head of Kota's former royal family, performed the ceremonial lighting of the torch and led a procession featuring Lord Lakshminarayan to the celebration grounds.

During his address to attendees, the Chief Minister conveyed his Vijayadashami greetings and emphasized the festival's cultural significance. "This occasion represents the triumph of justice over injustice," he remarked. "The Kota Dussehra is a celebration of our cultural heritage, religious beliefs and traditions. This year's 233-foot Ravana effigy has set a new record."

The impressive effigies required more than four months of dedicated craftsmanship by a 25-member team under the direction of 58-year-old artisan Tejendra Chauhan from Ambala.