Unique Dussehra Celebration in Madhya Pradesh Village Honors Ravana and Kumbhkaran
In Rajgarh, Madhya Pradesh, villagers celebrate Dussehra by worshipping Ravana and Kumbhkaran, a tradition steeped in history and belief.
Rajgarh, October 20 (Daily Kiran) : In the village of Bhatkhedi, located in Madhya Pradesh’s Rajgarh district, Dussehra is celebrated in a manner unlike anywhere else in India. While most of the country marks the occasion by burning effigies of Ravana, the residents here honor both Ravana and Kumbhkaran with rituals and prayers. This village is often referred to as “Ravana Wali Bhatkhedi.”
Local belief holds that Ravana fulfills the wishes of those who pray to him. When their desires are granted, devotees return to offer prayers and participate in community feasts known as bhandaara.
As Dussehra approaches, the idols of Ravana and Kumbhkaran are painted in vibrant colors. On the festival day, villagers perform rituals and worship these figures. Artists portraying Lord Ram and Lakshman touch the idols with spears, praying for the village’s prosperity.
Jagdish Chandra Yadav, a resident, shared with reporters, “This tradition is very old. Our ancestors have been coming here since we were children. Ram Leela is performed here, and for all nine days of Navratri, the village celebrates with performances. On Dussehra, a grand procession is held, and after the Ram Leela, we worship Ravana. We do not burn him here.”
He explained that their village was originally established near a Hanuman temple, as their ancestors preferred solitude. Long ago, they crafted idols of Ravana and Kumbhkaran from clay. Whenever the village faced challenges, such as issues with childbirth, residents would come here to seek blessings, and their wishes would often come true.
Krishtapal Singh, another villager, mentioned that it is believed that anyone who visits from anywhere in the world will have their wishes fulfilled. This tradition, started by their ancestors, continues to thrive.
RC Yadav added that they are committed to preserving the customs initiated by their forebears. They continue to perform Ram Leela and engage in the worship of Ravana and Kumbhkaran, ensuring that their wishes are realized.
