Dussehra, celebrated on 24th October, is a festival of triumph over injustice, falsehood, and arrogance.
It is believed to commemorate Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana in Ayodhya.
On this day, effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakaran are burnt in many cities, symbolizing the triumph of righteousness, truth, and justice.
Celebrating Dussehra Across Famous Temples
Ram Janmabhoomi, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh
In the district of Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, lies the birthplace of Lord Rama. Here, you can visit the Ram Janmabhoomi temple, where Rama spent his childhood.
After taking a dip in the Sarayu River, devotees can pay their respects at the temple, honoring Rama’s early years.
Ram Raja Temple, Madhya Pradesh
Unique to Madhya Pradesh is the Ram Raja Temple in Orchha. This temple is where Lord Rama is worshipped as a king.
Every day, a guard of honor salutes Lord Rama with traditional weapons, following a centuries-old tradition.
Kalaram Temple, Nashik, Maharashtra
In Nashik, Maharashtra, the Kalaram Temple stands as a significant site. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama, along with Sita and Lakshmana, stayed during their exile.
The temple’s main idol, a black-colored statue of Rama, is two feet tall, and it commemorates this historical event.
Seetha Ramachandra Swamy Temple, Telangana
Located in Bhadrachalam, Telangana, the Seetha Ramachandra Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita.
It marks the spot where Lord Rama crossed the Godavari River to rescue Sita from Lanka. The temple also houses a unique idol with Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana in a trinity form.
Lesser-Known Temples Dedicated to Lord Rama
Ramaswamy Temple, Karnataka
In the Kondandarama Temple in Chikmagalur district, Karnataka, an exceptional shrine is dedicated to Lord Rama. According to legend, Lord Parashurama requested Lord Rama to witness his marriage, leading to the construction of this temple.
Here, Sita, Rama, and Lakshmana are depicted in an unusual posture, making this temple a distinctive pilgrimage site.
Ramaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, the Ramaswamy Temple in Kumbakonam is considered the Ayodhya of the South.
Alongside Bharata and Shatrughna, Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana are worshipped here. Devotees visit this temple to seek the blessings of Lord Rama, engaging in rituals and prayers.
Celebrating Dussehra at these temples can provide devotees with a unique spiritual experience, connecting them with the essence of Lord Rama’s life and teachings.
