As Dussehra draws near in Bhopal, the bustling markets of Madhya Pradesh’s capital come alive with colorful effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnad. This time-honored tradition of burning these paper figures during the festival keeps the spirit of good triumphing over evil burning bright.
In areas like Baskhedi in Shahpura and TT Nagar, local artisans pour months of effort into crafting these massive statues. They dream of stronger sales this year after tough times last season.
Effigy maker Balram Bansal shares the reality: A 10-foot Ravana effigy sells for 5,000 rupees, but it costs about 4,000 rupees to build, leaving just 1,000 rupees as profit. “Last year, heavy rains wrecked our business—the paper effigies got soaked and ruined,” he says. “We’re crossing our fingers for clear skies this time, or sales could flop again.”
Fellow artisan Lalaram echoes the struggles. He estimates the total cost for a season’s work at 25,000 to 30,000 rupees. In good years, they can rake in up to 100,000 rupees from Dussehra effigy sales. But demand feels sluggish now. “Effigies that used to go for 10,000 rupees? We’re dropping them to 5,000 just to break even,” he adds. Unseasonal rains don’t just damage the materials—they scare off buyers and slash earnings.
Still, these dedicated craftsmen stay optimistic about a brighter Dussehra market in Bhopal. The festival, also called Vijayadashami, lands on October 2 this year. It’s a major Hindu celebration across India, marking Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana. Families gather for rituals, dances, and the dramatic effigy burning of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkaran, and son Meghnad—a vivid reminder of truth and righteousness beating back arrogance and evil.
Beyond the festivities, Dussehra inspires everyone to tackle personal demons like anger, greed, or jealousy, embracing virtues instead. In Bhopal and beyond, this blend of tradition and hope makes the season truly special.
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