Unique Dussehra Tradition in Maharashtras Sangola: Worshipping Ravana Instead of Burning Him
In Sangola, Maharashtra, villagers celebrate Dussehra by worshipping Ravana, honoring his virtues instead of burning his effigy.
Sangola, October 19 (Daily Kiran) : In Maharashtra’s Sangola village, located about 40 kilometers from Akola, a unique tradition unfolds during Dussehra. Instead of burning an effigy of Ravana, villagers honor him through worship. This practice reflects a deep-rooted belief that Ravana, despite his flaws, possessed numerous virtues worth recognizing.
The village features a statue of Ravana, carved from a single stone, depicting him as a ten-headed king adorned with weapons. On Dussehra, the villagers gather to pay their respects to this statue rather than participate in the typical effigy burning that marks the festival in many parts of India.
Local residents believe that Ravana embodies both good and bad qualities. They argue that instead of viewing him solely with disdain, one should embrace his positive traits. This perspective has led to a long-standing tradition of revering Ravana in Sangola.
Originally, the statue was intended to be placed on the other side of the village. However, logistical challenges prevented its relocation beyond the village boundary. Consequently, the statue was established at the village entrance, where it remains a focal point of devotion. Local priests continue to perform daily rituals, underscoring the villagers’ strong faith.
Priest Balakrishna Jadhav shared with a news agency that the statue is believed to be hundreds of years old. He recounted, “Our guruji told us that the statue was transported from another location by bullock cart. At the time of its journey, it could not move beyond this spot in our village, leading the locals to establish it here.”
On Saturdays, villagers conduct rituals using coconut oil, lighting incense and lamps as part of their worship. A local youth noted that the statue’s establishment dates back 200 to 300 years. He explained that it was crafted in a nearby village called Chikhal, and when attempts were made to move it, it could not progress past a nearby river. As a result, the villagers decided to enshrine it in Sangola, where the worship tradition has continued ever since.
