In the heart of Delhi’s Tagore Garden, the 70-year-old Tatarpur Ravana Market is alive with the sounds of hammers and the smell of wet clay as Dussehra preparations heat up. This iconic spot, famous for crafting Ravana effigies, is drawing attention from far beyond India this year. Artisans here are packing up smaller statues of the demon king Ravana, his son Meghnath, and brother Kumbhakarna for customers in the US and Canada.
For the first time in years, these handmade pieces—about two and a half feet tall—are heading overseas via courier. Veteran effigy-maker Mahendra, known as ‘Ravana Wale,’ has spent over 50 years in the trade, passing down skills from his father. At 76, he’s thrilled about the new demand.
“Last year, we had zero international orders,” Mahendra told with a big smile. “But now, I’ve got two already—one from the US and one from Canada. There’s still time before Dussehra, so I’m hoping for more.”
He adds that business feels promising after tough times last year brought heavy losses. “I’ve done this since I was a kid, and the passion for the craft keeps me going strong.”
Other workers at the market share the buzz. One artisan says they’ve already filled nearly 50 orders, with just final touches left to complete.
Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, celebrates the victory of good over evil in Hindu tradition. It wraps up the nine nights of Navratri and honors Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana, the 10-headed demon who kidnapped Rama’s wife Sita, as told in the ancient epic Ramayana. The name itself comes from Sanskrit words for “ten” and “defeat,” nodding to Ravana’s downfall.
All over India, Dussehra fairs light up communities with street food, amusement rides, colorful handicrafts, and lively performances. This year, as Ravana effigies make their way to Indian diaspora families abroad, the festival’s fiery spirit is crossing oceans and keeping traditions alive in exciting new ways.
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