Heavy rainfall on Thursday impacted Dussehra celebrations in Delhi, leading to the cancellation of major events previously set to host prominent leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. The adverse weather conditions forced organizers to postpone ceremonial activities designed to celebrate the victory of good over evil.
Prime Minister Modi was slated to attend the Raavan Dahan organized by the Indraprastha Ramleela Committee. However, the unexpected downpour caused extensive damage to the effigies and prompted organizers to cancel the celebration. Suresh Bindal, president of the committee, remarked, “The prime minister could not attend due to the rain. The effigies were damaged but later set on fire in the presence of Union Minister Harsh Malhotra and others.”
Home Minister Shah faced a similar fate as he could not participate in the Keshav Ramleela Committee’s event held at DDA Ground, Netaji Subhash Place, Pitampura. In his absence, BJP national general secretary Arun Singh stepped in as chief guest. Committee president Ashok Goyal Devaraha expressed hope to invite Shah again next year for the ritual of Dahan.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported significant rainfall across the city. By 5:30 PM, Pitampura experienced 17.5 mm of rainfall, Ridge recorded 15.4 mm, and Mayur Vihar observed 9.5 mm of precipitation.
Organizers throughout Delhi faced challenges to keep effigies dry from the persistent rain. Members of the Adarsh Ramleela Committee in Ashok Vihar noted, “We tried to cover it with plastic, but most of it still got drenched. It seems Indra Dev wanted Ravan to drown rather than burn this year.”
At the Aryan Heritage Foundation in Pitampura, organizer Anil Garg confirmed difficulties as well. “Around 10% of the effigy got drenched despite plastic covers. Waterlogging occurred, but we hope the Dahan goes well,” he stated.
Similarly, Nitin Gupta, treasurer of the Hanumant Dharmik Ramleela Committee in East Delhi, expressed dismay over the sudden rain. “The rain came as a shock and delayed preparations. We are now using petrol and diesel to ensure the effigy catches fire,” Gupta added.
This year’s Dussehra festivities, typically marked by vibrant celebrations, faced an unexpected challenge from nature. Despite the weather interference, organizers remain committed and hopeful for successful ceremonial burnings throughout the city. The impact of heavy rain on community events underscores the resilience of Delhi’s celebratory spirit amidst unforeseen adversities.
