Lord Shri Ramchandra

Lord Rama’s victory over the demon Ravana is celebrated as Ramachandra Vijyotsava. The Yuddha-kanda of Valmiki Ramayana states:

Empowering the arrow with the required mantras, Rama placed the terrible Brahmastra upon His bowstring. While gazing upon the flaming arrow, the monkeys became filled with delight, while dread penetrated the hearts of the Rakshasas. As Rama pulled the bow string back to His ear, the earth began to shudder and the heavens appeared to be thrown into confusion. At last, when Rama released the Brahmastra, it sped through the air like death itself, striking violently the chest of the Rakshasa king. Piercing through Ravana’s heart like a thunderbolt, the fierce arrow then entered into the earth, taking Ravana’s sinful life along with it. Then, as the wonderful Brahmastra reentered Rama’s quiver, Ravana dropped his bow from his hand. Vomiting blood from his ten mouths, he fell down dead upon the ground.

With Ravana dead, the rishis and demigods felt blessed relief and peace of mind that they had not enjoyed for a long time. A gentle, cool, fragrant breeze then began to blow, and the sun serenely spread its rays, so that happiness appeared to pervade all directions.

To celebrate this victory, in the evening a huge effigy of Ravana is burnt on the bonfire, followed by a display of fireworks. The devotees rejoice as evil is overcome by the Lord to benefit everyone.

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