Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 369

On Dussehra, people burn the ..... of Ravana, Kumbhkarna and Meghnad.

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Think about the physical representation of characters that are burned.

Correct Answer: A) Effigies

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, Civil Services

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated across India and other parts of the world. It marks the victory of good over evil, symbolized by the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. One of the most prominent traditions associated with Dussehra is the burning of effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkarna, and Meghnad.

Effigies are physical representations of these characters, typically made of wood and stuffed with firecrackers. These effigies are erected in public places, often in large pandals or temporary structures, and are set on fire during the evening of Dussehra. The burning of these effigies is a symbolic act that represents the destruction of evil and the triumph of righteousness.

It is important to understand the distinction between effigies and other forms of representation such as idols, posters, or paintings. Idols are typically used in worship and are not burned. Posters and paintings are two-dimensional representations and do not fit the tradition of Dussehra, which involves the burning of three-dimensional effigies.

The tradition of burning effigies during Dussehra is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious practices of India. It serves as a powerful visual representation of the moral and ethical values that are central to Hinduism, emphasizing the importance of righteousness and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. This tradition is not only a celebration of the victory of Lord Rama but also a reminder to the community of the importance of upholding moral values and fighting against evil.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This is the correct answer. During Dussehra, effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkarna, and Meghnad are burned to symbolize the victory of good over evil. Effigies are physical representations of these characters, often made of wood and stuffed with firecrackers.
  • Option B: This is incorrect. Idols are typically used in worship and are not burned during Dussehra. The burning of effigies is a specific tradition associated with this festival.
  • Option C: This is incorrect. Posters are not burned during Dussehra. The tradition involves the burning of effigies, which are three-dimensional representations of the characters.
  • Option D: This is incorrect. Paintings are not burned during Dussehra. The tradition involves the burning of effigies, which are three-dimensional representations of the characters.

Mnemonic: E for Effigies, E for Elimination (of evil)

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