JAMMU, Oct 20: The city of temples witnessed a spectacular celebration of Dussehra as the Sanatan Dharam Natak Samaj organised a grand Shobha Yatra under the leadership of its Chairman and MLA Jammu East, Yudhvir Sethi, drawing massive public participation and showcasing the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
The celebrations marked the triumph of good over evil, with a colourful procession, beautifully decorated chariots carrying tableaux of Lord Rama, Lakshman and Hanuman, and the traditional burning of the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkarna and Meghnad at Parade Ground.
The Shobha Yatra commenced from Deewan Mandir after traditional puja performed by Yudhvir Sethi. The procession passed through the main bazaars of Jammu, including Moti Bazar, Sabzi Mandi, Rajtilak Road, Purani Mandi, Old Hospital Road, City Chowk, Shalamar Road and Raghunath Bazar.
Devotees offered prayers at the historic Raghunath Temple before the procession proceeded towards Parade Ground amid chants of “Jai Shri Ram”.
The procession featured vibrant tableaux depicting scenes from the Ramayana, with artists portraying Lord Rama, Lakshman and Hanuman.
Local artists who had performed during the nine-day Ramleela at Deewan Mandir also participated, adding devotional fervour and cultural richness to the celebrations.
The main attraction was the traditional burning of the effigies at Parade Ground, where thousands of people gathered to witness the spectacle.
The role of Lord Rama was enacted by local artists who shot arrows to ignite the effigies of Ravana and Kumbhkarna, while Lakshman ignited Meghnad. The effigies burst into flames amid loud cheers and applause, reinforcing the timeless message of righteousness triumphing over evil.
The huge effigies, prepared by artists from Uttar Pradesh over nearly a month, symbolised the forces of evil defeated by Lord Rama and his allies.
The ground and surrounding areas witnessed a massive gathering, with people occupying rooftops and other vantage points to catch a glimpse of the celebrations. Elaborate security and traffic arrangements were made to facilitate the smooth conduct of the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Yudhvir Sethi said, “Dussehra is not only a festival but also a reminder that truth and righteousness always prevail. The Shobha Yatra reflects our rich culture and traditions, and the huge participation of people shows the unity and devotion of our society. It is this spirit that keeps our heritage alive and strengthens the bond among communities.”
He further emphasised the broader message of Sanatan Dharma, describing it as a way of life that teaches harmony, respect for all beings and the pursuit of truth.
“Sanatan Dharma has always shown the path of righteousness, compassion and unity. Dussehra reminds us that no matter how powerful evil may appear, truth and Dharma will ultimately prevail. It is this timeless message that we wish to share with our younger generations through these celebrations,” he said.
Sethi appreciated the efforts of Sanatan Dharam Natak Samaj for organising the celebrations and providing a platform for local artists to showcase their talent.
He said the organisation had consistently worked to make Ramleela and Dussehra celebrations more impressive while preserving traditional values and passing them on to future generations.
Extending his greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir on Vijayadashami, Yudhvir Sethi called upon people from all walks of life to uphold the principles of righteousness, unity and social harmony.
Sanatan Dharam Natak Samaj President Anil Masoom, General Secretary Bharat Bhushan and other members of the organisation were present during the celebrations. Masoom highlighted the cultural and spiritual importance of the festival, stating that such events bring communities together and help educate younger generations about the values of Sanatan Dharma and the legacy of Lord Rama.
The celebrations concluded with the symbolic destruction of the three effigies, reaffirming the enduring message that truth, justice and righteousness ultimately triumph over arrogance and evil.