New Surpanakha In Indore's Dussehra: Sonam Raghuvanshi, Meerut's 'Drum' Killer

This Dussehra, Indore will witness an unusual and controversial event that is already sparking debate.
New Surpanakha In Indore's Dussehra: Sonam Raghuvanshi, Meerut's 'Drum' Killer
An elaborate 11-faced effigy has been specifically crafted for this unique event
Indore:
Indore's upcoming Dussehra celebration takes a controversial turn this year with an unprecedented event replacing traditional customs. Rather than burning Ravana's effigy, organizers will immolate representations of women accused of serious crimes in what they've named "Surpanakha Dahan." The focal figures include Indore's Sonam Raghuvanshi, allegedly involved in her husband's murder conspiracy, and Meerut's Muskan, who reportedly killed her spouse with her paramour and concealed his remains in a blue drum.
The event is being hosted by Paurush, an advocacy group for male victims of spousal abuse, asserting that wickedness transcends gender barriers. Ashok Dashora, the organization's president, explained, "Just as Ravana epitomized evil in ancient times, today's society must address contemporary 'Surpanakhas' who sow destruction through various means."
An elaborate 11-faced effigy has been specifically crafted for this unique event, with each face portraying a woman implicated in major criminal activities spanning fraud, cybercrime, trafficking, and organized crime. The effigy will be displayed in a vibrant procession featuring drums, traditional musical instruments, and cultural performances before being set aflame at Mahalaxmi Nagar Mela Ground around 6:30 pm.
The representation includes Harsha from Rajasthan facing fraud allegations; Nikita Singhania from Jaunpur accused of matrimonial blackmail; Sushmita from Delhi implicated in massive cyber fraud; Ravita from Meerut charged with violent land dispute attacks; Shashi from Firozabad allegedly connected to child trafficking; Soochana Seth from Bengaluru accused of plotting her husband's poisoning; Hansa from Dewas known for liquor smuggling operations; Chaman alias Gudiya from Mumbai linked to narcotics distribution and criminal gangs; and Priyanka from Auraiya implicated in extensive financial fraud.
Numerous banners and posters announcing the "Surpanakha Dahan" have appeared throughout Indore and on vehicles, while audio announcements continue inviting public participation. Organizers mention that members of the Raghuvanshi community will also join this symbolic demonstration.
By substituting Ravana with Surpanakha, the organizers aim to broaden Dussehra's significance beyond its conventional narrative. "Our central message is straightforward—evil must be eradicated regardless of gender," stated Dashora.
As promotional materials circulate widely on social media platforms, the event has generated substantial interest and controversy regarding the reinterpretation of an ancient tradition to highlight contemporary societal evils.