NEW DELHI, Oct 20: Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan on Tuesday called for a united national effort to eliminate drug abuse, particularly among young people, describing substance addiction as a serious social challenge that endangers the health, capabilities and future of the nation.
Addressing the Vijayadashami celebrations at the historic Luv Kush Ram Leela in the national capital, Radhakrishnan drew a parallel between the traditional burning of Ravana’s effigy and the need to remove harmful practices from society.
“Just as we burn the effigy of Ravan to symbolise the victory of good over evil, let us resolve to finish the evil of drug abuse in our motherland,” he said.
His address, delivered in English and interpreted into Hindi for the audience, highlighted the broader significance of Dussehra beyond its religious and cultural traditions.
The Vice-President said the ritual of burning Ravana symbolises the triumph of virtue over wrongdoing and serves as a reminder to individuals to overcome negative traits such as anger, greed, jealousy and ego.
He also referred to the national emblem to emphasise that truth and righteousness ultimately prevail over falsehood, urging people to uphold these values in their personal lives and contribute to a healthier society.
The annual celebrations at Luv Kush Ram Leela featured an elaborate Ravana Dahan ceremony, during which the demon king’s effigy appeared to cry out “Hey Ram” after being struck by an arrow representing Lord Ram. A dramatic monologue that followed encouraged people to confront their inner weaknesses rather than merely witness the symbolic destruction of evil.
“Every year, I burn. But this time, burn the Ravan inside you,” the monologue declared, urging people to shed arrogance and take responsibility for addressing social problems. It also referred to challenges such as Delhi’s traffic congestion, highlighting the role citizens can play in finding practical solutions.
The organisers introduced several special effects to enhance this year’s spectacle. The 110-foot Ravana effigy featured a rotating sword, fiery-looking eyes and 11 garlands in different colours. Stuffed with firecrackers, the towering structure was accompanied by a 100-foot effigy of Kumbhkaran and a 90-foot representation of Meghnath.
The celebrations combined traditional storytelling, elaborate visual effects and a broader social message, with the Vice-President using the occasion to stress the importance of collective action against substance abuse and other harmful practices.