New Delhi: Amid heavy rain, President Droupadi Murmu attended the Dussehra celebrations at the Red Fort on Thursday, drawing a symbolic bow to mark the “Ravan Dahan” at Madhavdas Park. She said that the festival has always represented the triumph of good over evil, humility over arrogance, and love over hatred. The event was organised by the Dharmic Ramlila Committee.
Addressing the gathering, the President stated that Operation Sindoor, carried out by the Indian armed forces, symbolizes a decisive victory over the “Ravana of terrorism.” Launched on May 7, the operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, in which 26 civilians, mostly tourists, were killed.
“When terrorism strikes against humanity, it becomes necessary to counter it. Operation Sindoor is a mark of victory against the Ravana of terrorism, and we salute our soldiers for this,” Murmu said. Despite the downpour, a large crowd braved the rain to witness the Ravan Dahan.
Recalling the tradition of Lord Ram’s victory over Ravana, she emphasized the deeper significance of the festival. “This event is not only about destroying Ravana outside, but also about ending the Ravana within us. Only then can society move ahead with peace and harmony,” she added, urging citizens to overcome inner evils.
Union Minister Smriti Irani was also present at the event, while attendees watched the proceedings under umbrellas due to the rain.
