Indian religious practices
Bisrakh Village: The Unique Place in UP Where Ravana is Worshipped Instead of Burned on Dussehra
Oct 01, 2025 05:17 pm CST
In Bisrakh village near Greater Noida, residents observe a distinctive Dussehra tradition by worshipping Ravana rather than burning his effigy. This UP village, believed to be Ravana's birthplace, honors him as an ancestor and scholarly figure. The local Shiv Mandir, known as the Ravana temple, attracts visitors nationwide who come to experience this contrasting celebration that challenges the conventional narrative of Dussehra across India.
Ancient Maa Mundeshwari Temple in Bihar Preserves Unique Bloodless Sacrifice Tradition
Sep 29, 2025 06:34 pm CST
Discover the fascinating ritual at Bihar's ancient Maa Mundeshwari Temple where devotees offer goats in a unique bloodless sacrifice. Dating back to 625 BC, this temple on Pawara Hill performs a mystical ceremony where goats temporarily lose consciousness when placed before the deity, only to awaken after priests sprinkle rice and flowers, symbolizing a humane alternative to traditional animal sacrifice that attracts pilgrims from across India and abroad.