Dussehra celebrations at Patna's Gandhi Maidan go high-tech this year

Patna: This Dussehra, the age-old tale of good triumphing over evil is set to dazzle at Gandhi Maidan, where the effigies of the mythological demons—Ravan, his brother Kumbhakarna, and son Meghnath—will be going high-tech with a blend of sound and lights, along with fireworks.

The Sri Dussehra Committee Trust has already started preparation for ‘Ravan-vadh’ and ‘Ramleela’.The organisers said for the first time, all the festivities will take place at the Gandhi Maidan, with a stage for Ramleela, a dramatic folk re-enactment of the life of Lord Rama, which lasts for 11 days during Dussehra.For years, the towering effigies of Ravan (72 feet), and 60 feet each of Kumbhakarna and Meghnath have been a highlight of the celebrations.

This time, the organisers have raised the bar—quite literally—committing to craft these figures even taller, at 80, 75, and 70 feet respectively.Kamal Noopany, chairman of the committee, said with support from the Patna district administration, they will make all efforts to make this year’s festivities a visual and auditory extravaganza, promising a memorable experience for all. “We have hired Agra-based artists for the preparation of the effigies, which will come alive with cutting-edge technology, featuring integrated sound systems and dramatic lighting effects, including glowing red lights in Ravan’s eyes to amplify his menacing presence,” Noopany told this reporter on Monday, acknowledging the additional cost of Rs 1.5 to 2 lakh but emphasising the value of innovation in tradition.

The dressing theme this year draws inspiration from South Indian and Rajasthani traditional wear. The effigies of the troika—Ravan, Kumbhkaran and Meghnath—will don ‘dhoti’ made of Kanjeevaram silk and Jodhpuri suit (bandhgala). Approximately 700 bombs—350 for Ravan alone—will ensure a thunderous climax as the effigies would be set ablaze, symbolising the triumph of Lord Rama. The surrounding sets, including ‘Sone Ki Lanka’ and ‘Ashok Vatika’, will be constructed from thermocol, adorned with intricate lighting to evoke a mystical ambiance.

The budget for this grand spectacle, including the troupe, effigies, and logistics, would be around Rs 40 lakh.The organisers said they will use only green crackers in the effigies and fireworks, which will be brought from Kolkata and Patna City.Noopany further said the 11-day Ramleela, which culminates in the grand ‘Ram-Bharat Milap’ on Oct 3, will unfold at the Gandhi Maidan, a shift from its previous venue at Naga Baba Thakurbari and Kalidas Rangalaya. “In a generous move, the district administration has waived the venue fee for all 11 days,” he said.A stage will be set up by the district administration, where a troupe of 30 artists from Vrindhavan will perform along with the local ones. A German tent of 100-by-200 feet will be set up for the audience along with the open space.