Jammu, Oct 20: Jammu witnessed grand Dussehra celebrations as the Sanatan Dharam Natak Samaj organised a Shobha Yatra under the leadership of its chairman and Jammu East MLA Yudhvir Sethi, drawing large crowds and showcasing the region’s cultural and spiritual traditions.
The celebrations marked the victory of good over evil, featuring a colourful procession with decorated chariots and tableaux depicting Lord Rama, Lakshman and Hanuman, followed by the traditional burning of the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkarna and Meghnad at Parade Ground.
The Shobha Yatra began at Deewan Mandir after traditional prayers performed by Sethi. It passed through Moti Bazar, Sabzi Mandi, Rajtilak Road, Purani Mandi, Old Hospital Road, City Chowk, Shalamar Road and Raghunath Bazar. Devotees also offered prayers at the historic Raghunath Temple before the procession moved towards Parade Ground amid chants of “Jai Shri Ram”.
Local artists who had participated in the nine-day Ramleela at Deewan Mandir joined the procession, bringing scenes from the Ramayana to life.
The main attraction was the burning of the three effigies at Parade Ground, where thousands gathered to witness the spectacle. Artists portraying Lord Rama and Lakshman ignited the effigies, which went up in flames amid cheers from the crowd.
According to the organisers, the effigies were prepared by artists from Uttar Pradesh over nearly a month. Elaborate security and traffic arrangements were put in place to facilitate the celebrations.
Speaking on the occasion, Sethi said Dussehra conveyed the enduring message that truth and righteousness ultimately prevail. He said the large public participation reflected the people’s devotion and the importance of preserving cultural traditions.
He also highlighted the values of harmony, compassion and unity associated with Sanatan Dharma, calling for these principles to be passed on to younger generations.
Sethi appreciated the Sanatan Dharam Natak Samaj for organising the event and providing a platform for local artists to showcase their talent. He also extended Vijayadashami greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, urging them to uphold righteousness and social harmony.
Sanatan Dharam Natak Samaj president Anil Masoom, general secretary Bharat Bhushan and other members of the organisation were present. Masoom highlighted the festival’s cultural significance and its role in bringing people together while familiarising younger generations with the Ramayana.
The celebrations concluded with the symbolic burning of the three effigies, reaffirming Dussehra’s traditional message of the triumph of good over evil.
