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Rajasthan is called the land of Rajput valor, forts and folk traditions. But a tradition can also be seen in this region, which is completely different from the common belief. Here in some communities Ravana is seen as a scholar, devotee of Shiva and a respected ancestor rather than a villain. Especially in the Mandore area of ​​Jodhpur, there is mention of traditions to the worship of Ravana.

Ravana's effigy is not burnt on Dussehra

In most parts of the country, the effigy of Ravana is burnt on the day of Dussehra. It is considered a symbol of Lord Rama's victory over Lanka and the victory of good over evil. But in some local traditions to Ravana, instead of burning him on the day of Dussehra, he is worshiped and respected. Behind this there are religious beliefs and local communities have their own traditions. Therefore, it would not be correct to consider this as the practice of entire Rajasthan.

Recognition of Ravana as a scholar and devotee of Shiva

In the tradition of Ramayana, Ravana has been described as the king of Lanka as well as an extremely learned man and a great devotee of Lord Shiva. It is believed that he had performed rigorous penance for Shiva. He is also considered an expert in Vedas and scriptures and a scholar to sciences like music and Ayurveda. That is why some communities give importance to these aspects of Ravana's personality and worship him.

Why is this tradition associated with Jodhpur?

The names of Mandore and Jodhpur often come up regarding the worship of Ravana. In some local beliefs, Ravana is said to be to the Mandore region. According to popular tradition, Ravana's wife Mandodari was to Mandore and on this basis Ravana is considered the son-in-law of this region. However, many things to the relationship between Ravana and Mandore are based on folklore and local beliefs. One should avoid presenting these as certified historical facts.

Different perspective on Dussehra

While on one hand Dussehra is the festival of Ravana Dahan across the country, on the other hand people who worship Ravana do not accept the burning of his effigy. For them, Ravana is not just the villain of Ramayana, but a character associated with knowledge, penance and devotion to Shiva. That is why this tradition of Rajasthan shows the diversity of Indian culture, where the same mythological character is seen from a different perspective in different regions and communities.

Is Ravana worshiped in entire Rajasthan?

No. It is important to clarify that there is no tradition of worshiping Ravana in entire Rajasthan. At most places, effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakaran and Meghnad are burnt on the day of Dussehra. The tradition associated with the worship of Ravana is limited to certain local communities and areas. This local diversity makes the folk culture of Rajasthan special.

Unique cultural identity of Rajasthan

In Rajasthan, on one hand, there is a strong tradition of devotion to Ram and burning Ravana on Dussehra, while on the other hand, in some places, there is a tradition of honoring Ravana by considering him as a devotee of Shiva and a scholar.