Kohima: Devotees gathered at the Dhansiri River in Dimapur this Wednesday to immerse Durga idols. The event marked the final day of Durga Puja celebrations on Bijaya Dashami. Officials from the Nagaland Disaster Management Authority and local traffic police handled security and logistics for the crowds.
Swami Chinmayanandaji Maharaj, the chairman of Pranab Vidyapith Higher Secondary School and in-charge of Bharat Sevashram Sangha, led the discussion on the festival. He explained that Bijaya Dashami signals the win of good over evil. The rituals also commemorate Lord Rama defeating Ravana to rescue Sita. Swami noted that the practice of burning a Ravana effigy, known as Ravana Dahan, is a deep-seated tradition in the Ramayana. He said, "The ritual served as a reminder that evil, injustice and unrighteousness would ultimately be overcome by truth and goodness."
Immersion remains a core part of the religious tradition. Clay idols dissolve safely in the river current. Leaving these objects along the roadside would create sanitation issues and show disrespect. Following these celebrations, communities now look ahead to Diwali. Families will soon light up their homes to celebrate the return of Lord Rama.
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