Unique Kanpur Temple Dedicated to Ravan Opens Only Once a Year on Dussehra

In a remarkable cultural tradition, a temple in Kanpur’s Shivala area dedicated to Ravan, the demon king from the ancient Indian epic Ramayana, opens its doors to devotees exclusively on Vijaya Dashami, also known as Dussehra. This annual event, which falls on the tenth day of the Hindu festival of Navratri, draws thousands of worshippers who come to pay their respects to a figure often vilified in mainstream narratives.

A Day of Contrasts: Worship and Symbolism

On Dussehra, the temple operates from 6 AM until 8:30 PM, coinciding with the time when effigies of Ravan are set ablaze across the city, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil as represented by Lord Ram’s victory. This juxtaposition of reverence and destruction is a poignant reminder of the complexities of Ravan’s character in Hindu mythology.

Priest Chandan Maurya elaborated on the temple’s rituals, stating, “Devotees light mustard-oil diyas here, and women offer torai (ridge gourd) flowers for marital blessings. In the morning, we celebrate Ravan’s birthday, and at night, Lord Ram grants him salvation, allowing Ravan to depart for Vaikunth Dham (heaven).” This unique practice highlights the duality of Ravan’s legacy-while he is often portrayed as a villain, he is also recognized for his wisdom and power.

A Gathering of Thousands

Local residents report that thousands flock to the temple on Vijaya Dashami, paying homage to a figure who, by evening, is symbolically vanquished through the burning of effigies. Devotee Rajinder Gupta articulated a nuanced understanding of Ravan’s character, stating, “It is not Ravan himself who is burned, but his effigy. The reason is that he gained great power and wisdom and ruled over the world, but he misused those qualities. He became egoistic, and when someone becomes egoistic, it leads to wrongdoing.”

This perspective invites a deeper examination of Ravan’s role in the Ramayana. While he is often depicted as the antagonist, his character embodies the complexities of human nature, including ambition, intelligence, and ultimately, hubris.

Ravan: A Figure of Veneration in Other Regions

The Kanpur shrine is not an isolated case; it is part of a broader cultural phenomenon in India where Ravan is venerated in various forms. For instance, in Bisrakh village, located in Noida, Ravan is celebrated as an ancestor. This village boasts a temple dedicated to him, where devotees visit not just on special occasions but throughout the year. Unlike the practices in Kanpur, the Bisrakh community does not burn Ravan’s effigy, instead choosing to worship him, further illustrating the diverse interpretations of his character across different regions.

Historical Context and Cultural Significance

The tradition of honoring Ravan can be traced back to ancient texts and folklore, where he is depicted as a learned scholar and a devotee of Lord Shiva. His character serves as a reminder of the thin line between good and evil, wisdom and folly. The annual opening of the Kanpur temple on Dussehra serves as a cultural touchstone, allowing devotees to engage with this complex narrative in a meaningful way.

The festival of Dussehra itself has deep historical roots, celebrating the victory of Lord Ram over Ravan as a metaphor for the triumph of righteousness. However, the simultaneous veneration of Ravan in certain communities adds layers to this narrative, challenging the binary view of good versus evil.

The Role of Rituals in Shaping Beliefs

Rituals play a crucial role in shaping the beliefs and practices surrounding Ravan. The lighting of mustard-oil diyas and the offering of torai flowers are not merely acts of devotion; they are imbued with cultural significance that reflects the community’s values and beliefs. These rituals serve as a means of connecting the past with the present, allowing devotees to engage with their heritage in a tangible way.

Moreover, the temple’s unique tradition of opening only once a year creates a sense of anticipation and exclusivity, drawing in worshippers who may feel a deep connection to Ravan’s story. This annual pilgrimage becomes a communal event, fostering a sense of belonging and shared identity among participants.

Conclusion: A Complex Legacy

The Kanpur temple dedicated to Ravan stands as a testament to the complexities of cultural narratives in India. While Dussehra is widely recognized as a celebration of good triumphing over evil, the simultaneous veneration of Ravan invites a more nuanced understanding of his character. As thousands gather to pay their respects, they engage with a legacy that transcends simple dichotomies, reflecting the multifaceted nature of human experience.

In a world increasingly defined by polarization, the tradition of honoring Ravan serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and embracing complexity in our narratives. As the flames of effigies rise in the evening sky, they symbolize not just the defeat of a demon king, but also the enduring power of stories that challenge our perceptions and invite us to reflect on our own humanity.