50,000 turn up for visual treat at Panchkula’s Shalimar Ground

The festival of Dasehra was celebrated with grandeur and devotion at Shalimar Ground in Sector 5 here with over 50,000 people gathering to witness the traditional burning of towering effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna.

The dramatic Ravan Dahan, accompanied by vibrant fireworks, symbolised the destruction of arrogance, deceit and evil, while the festivities fostered a spirit of unity, love and harmony among citizens. A cultural programme featuring devotional performances, including episodes from the Ramayana, captivated the audience.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini attended the event as the chief guest and extended his greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of Vijayadashami. In his address, he said Dasehra is a reminder of the eternal victory of good over evil and a call to embrace the ideals of Lord Rama in daily life. “Lord Rama’s life represents the highest ideals of human civilisation, teaching us virtues of truth, honesty, equality, compassion and service,” he remarked.

Saini observed that in an increasingly materialistic world, the values of Lord Ram remain more relevant than ever. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi was striving to realise the vision of Ram Rajya, ensuring governance rooted in justice, welfare and inclusivity. Congratulating the organisers, the CM announced a contribution of Rs 11 lakh to the Mata Mansa Devi Charitable Trust from his discretionary fund.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Mayor Kulbhushan Goyal and former Assembly Speaker Gian Chand Gupta.

DCP Srishti Gupta supervised the security arrangements at the event. From ACPs to constables and home guards, every officer carried out their duties with complete dedication and responsibility. The DCP said their alertness was evident when a 13-year-old juvenile snatcher, who had attempted to steal jewellery from three women in the crowd, was apprehended on the spot with the swift action of Head Constable Surajbhan. In another instance, a 10-year-old boy, who had separated from his mother, was quickly traced and reunited with her. Traffic arrangements also remained smooth and well-regulated throughout the event.

Rajya Sabha MP Kartikeya Sharma inaugurated and flagged off a grand procession from Trilokpur Chowk to mark Dasehra celebrations in Raipur Rani. Addressing the gathering, he said the life of Lord Rama highlights the ideal values embedded in every relationship – be it between father and son, friend and foe, husband and wife, teacher and disciple or king and subjects.