While most of India prepares to burn towering Ravana effigies on Dussehra, one village in Uttar Pradesh continues its centuries-old tradition of worshipping him. Residents of Bisrakh, near Greater Noida, believe Ravana was born here and see him not as a villain, but as a revered ancestor and scholar. Instead of destruction, they perform rituals and offer prayers on Dussehra.
Locals identify the Shiv Mandir in Bisrakh as the Ravana temple. Villagers say this temple is home to the Shiva Lingam that Ravana himself worshipped. The head priest, Ramdas, explains, “Vijayadashami is celebrated here, but Ravana’s effigy is never burned. His idol is placed before the yajna, and prayers are offered instead.”
Why Ravana Worship on Dussehra?
For the villagers, Ravana is a Maha Brahman — a learned ancestor. Many also believe that wishes made here on Dussehra never go unfulfilled. Krishna Kumar, a resident, says, “We consider Ravana like our grandfather. That’s why we never burn his effigy.”
Interestingly, Bisrakh was once called Vishveshara, after Ravana’s father Vishrava. Ancient texts suggest that this is where Rishi Vishrava lived, and where Ravana worshipped Shiva.
Beyond Bisrakh’s Dussehra Celebrations
This tradition is not unique to Bisrakh alone. In Kanpur, the Dashanan Temple opens only on Dussehra, allowing devotees to worship Ravana. On this day, chants of “Jai Lankesh” and “Lankapati Naresh ki Jai Ho” fill the temple, reinforcing the belief that Ravana is also a guardian of Lord Shiva.
Social media has amplified Bisrakh’s story, attracting curious visitors from across India. Families from Kerala, students from Greater Noida, and devotees from Delhi now travel to witness this unusual way of observing Dussehra.
FAQs About Dussehra in Bisrakh
Q: Why do people in Bisrakh worship Ravana on Dussehra?
A: They believe Ravana was born here and see him as an ancestor and scholar.
Q: How is Dussehra celebrated in Bisrakh village?
A: Instead of burning effigies, rituals and prayers are offered to Ravana’s idol.
Q: Is Bisrakh the only place where Ravana is worshipped on Dussehra?
A: No, Kanpur’s Dashanan Temple also opens only on Dussehra for Ravana worship.
Q: Why do people consider Ravana a Maha Brahman during Dussehra?
A: Locals believe Ravana was a wise Brahmin and a devotee of Lord Shiva.
