Balaghat Dussehra: Ravana effigy ignites before Lord Rama's arrow in rare incident

The Dussehra celebration in Balaghat, Madhya Pradesh, witnessed an unusual turn when the effigy of Ravana caught fire before the customary moment when Lord Rama’s bow is drawn and the arrow released. The incident occurred during the evening program that draws large crowds from the district and surrounding areas.

In the traditional ritual, the effigy is set alight after the symbolic act of Rama shooting his arrow, marking the triumph of good over evil. This year, however, the pyre ignited prematurely, causing the statue to blaze while the bow remained untouched.

Organisers said the early ignition was unexpected but that safety protocols were quickly enacted, preventing any injuries. Spectators expressed surprise, and the event continued after the flame was brought under control.

Local officials noted that such deviations are rare in the long‑standing ceremony, which has been observed for decades, and assured that the celebration will proceed as planned for the remainder of the night.