Bhubaneswar: Thousands of people thronged different locations in Bhubaneswar to witness “Ravana Podi” to mark the end of Dussehra celebration on Tuesday night.
The puja committees made necessary arrangements for setting fire to the gigantic effigies of King Ravana. The effigies measured minimum 50 ft to 100 ft in height. Those were kept standing within a barricaded enclosure in an open space, while the people were made to witness the spectacle from a safe distance.
Several prominent persons including leaders of different political parties ignited the fire to burn the effigies. The Ravana Podi was organised by six puja committees in Jharpada, Baramunda, Naharkanta, Koradakanta, Chhatabara and Tamando in the capital city.
After the effigies of ten-headed King Ravana were totally burnt, display of fireworks started in the open ground. The committees competed among themselves to present the best display of pyrotechnic. Each committee spent more than Rs one lakh for the special fireworks.
The committees were supported by Commissionerate Police, Fire Brigade and ambulance services to ensure smooth conduct of the Ravana Podi. The city will witness parade of tableaus of Durga idols as part of ‘Bhasani’ (immersion) ceremony on Wednesday.
