Dussehra celebrated with usual gaiety in UP

Lucknow, Oct 2 (UNI) The Hindu festival of Dussehra, that symbolises victory of truth over evil, was celebrated with fervour and gaiety in Uttar Pradesh.

Mammonth effigies of demon king Ravan, his brother Kumbhkaran and son Meghnad were lit at several places in the state against the backdrop of 'Ramlila' plays.

According to Hindu mythology, Dussehra, also called Vijay Dashmi, symbolises the victory of Lord Ram over Ravan who is regarded as an epitome of vanity, evil and injustice.

The day also marked the end of the pious 'Shardiya Navrata' period and the 10-day Maa Durga Puja festivities.

The 'visarjan' (immersion) ceremony of Goddess Durga's idols also took place at several places.

Meanwhile, Governor T V Rajeswar and Chief Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav greeted people on the occasion of Dussehra.

In his message, the Governor said the festival preaches victory of truth and justice, while the Chief Minister observed the festival underlined truth always prevails over evil and injustice.

Meanwhile, unidentified miscreants torched the effigy of Ravan last night in Kauchna township of Hardoi district, following which tension prevailed there.

Since Ravan is torched on 'dashmi' -- which falls today, angry residents blocked the Hardoi-Lucknow highway demanding the arrest of the accused.

The agitated mob started pelting stones at roadways buses and private vehicles. At least five buses were reportedly damaged.

In a bid to disperse the mob, police used force and opened fire in the air injuring 10 people, including three policemen.

As a precaution, additional forces have been deployed in the area and cases lodged against 250 people.

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