Lucknow's Eco-Friendly 'Green' Ravan Effigy Stands Tall at 65 Feet

In Lucknow, the annual Ram Utsav celebration is undergoing a significant transformation, with a focus on environmental consciousness and social awareness. The highlight of this year's festivities is the unveiling of a 65-foot 'Green' Ravan effigy, the tallest in the city, crafted using natural and biodegradable materials.

The effigy, built by local artists Ganesh and Naresh under the guidance of veteran craftsman Chhedilal, is a testament to the organizers' commitment to sustainability. Constructed with 100-150 bamboo poles, 200 kilograms of paper, and 10 liters of eco-friendly paint, the structure is designed to minimize environmental impact. Additionally, the Ravan Dahan ceremony will feature the use of light-based, eco-friendly crackers instead of traditional fireworks.

Beyond its eco-conscious design, the towering effigy carries a deeper symbolic meaning. It represents the complete destruction of social evils, casteism, foreign dependence, and racial prejudice. For the artisans, the creation of this effigy has been a labor of love, with each step, from cutting and tying the bamboo to painting the structure, taking hours of meticulous work to ensure the effigy stands tall and safe.

The Aishbagh Ramleela Samiti, the organizers of the largest Dussehra celebration in Lucknow, have described this year's event as a landmark, showcasing that the Ram Utsav is not only about tradition but also about leading society towards unity and sustainability.