Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Oct 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu participated in Vijayadashami celebrations at separate venues in Delhi on Tuesday, October 20, as the country celebrated Dussehra, symbolising the victory of good over evil.

President Murmu attended the celebrations organised by the Dwarka Shri Ramlila Society in Dwarka, while Prime Minister Modi participated in the event organised by the Shri Ramlila Committee Indraprastha at Utsav Ground in IP Extension, East Delhi.

Addressing the gathering, Modi called for national unity and urged citizens, political parties and institutions to stand together in the national interest. He said people must identify and oppose those who seek to harm the country, divide society or spread hatred towards Indian culture.

Invoking Maa Bharati, the Prime Minister urged citizens to recognise the nation's enemies and defeat them, describing Vijayadashami as an occasion to reaffirm this resolve.

Modi also highlighted the ideals of Ram Rajya, describing it as a benchmark for good governance where there is no discrimination, everyone receives justice, equal opportunities are available and public welfare remains the priority. He stressed the importance of respecting citizens and serving the poor and underprivileged.

Referring to Lord Ram's journey to Lanka, Modi said even the greatest challenges could be overcome through determination, collective strength and public participation.

At the Dwarka celebrations, President Murmu witnessed the traditional Ravana Dahan ceremony, during which effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran were set ablaze. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also attended the event.

The Dwarka Shri Ramlila Society organised the 15th edition of its celebrations from October 11 to 20. A 221-foot-tall effigy of Ravana was among the major attractions this year.

The Dussehra programme at Utsav Ground in IP Extension also featured the traditional Ravana Dahan ceremony and the burning of additional effigies, including one themed around counterfeit medicines.

Extensive security arrangements were made for the Prime Minister's visit, with around 2,500 personnel from the Delhi Police and central armed forces deployed at and around the venue. A multi-layered security cordon and traffic restrictions were put in place to manage the crowds.

Earlier, President Murmu extended Vijayadashami greetings to Indians in the country and abroad, describing the festival as a symbol of Lord Ram's victory over Ravana and the triumph of dharma and justice over injustice. She urged citizens to uphold morality and duty and contribute towards building an inclusive society.

Modi also conveyed his greetings, expressing hope that the festival would strengthen people's resolve and bring happiness, prosperity and success. He invoked Lord Shri Ram, Mother Janaki and Bajrangbali, noting that Ramlila performances across the country continue to preserve Lord Ram's ideals.

The Prime Minister described Vijayadashami as a reminder of the end of tyranny and terror and the triumph of truth over falsehood.