In India, Ravana is generally considered a symbol of evil and his effigy is burnt on the day of Vijayadashami. But there is also a place in Rajasthan, where Ravana is worshiped with respect and reverence. Here people consider Ravana as a scholar, a devotee of Shiva and a great knowledgeable person and worship him.
The tradition of Ravana worship is associated with Jodhpur.
Special belief related to Ravana is seen in Jodhpur and surrounding areas of Rajasthan. According to folk belief, Ravana's wife Mandodari It is believed to be related to the Mandore area of Jodhpur. In some communities, Ravana is worshiped considering him as their ancestor and family man. Here on the occasion of Dussehra, instead of burning Ravana, Ravana is worshiped and special rituals are performed.
Why is Ravana considered revered?
According to religious legends, Ravana was not only the king of Lanka, but he was also a great scholar, astrologer, knower of the Vedas and an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. It is believed that he performed rigorous penance to please Lord Shiva. He is respected in some places because of his scholarship and knowledge.
Relation between Mandodari and Jodhpur
According to folklore, Mandodari was a resident of Mandore area of Jodhpur and was married to Ravana. Due to this belief, some people also call Jodhpur the in-laws house of Ravana. However, the basis of these beliefs are mainly folk traditions and stories.
Ravana worshiping communities
People of some Brahmin communities in Rajasthan consider Ravana as a scholar and a devotee of Shiva and worship him. They do not participate in Ravana Dahan on the day of Dussehra and perform religious rituals in their own way. They believe that the good qualities of Ravana's personality should also be remembered.
The other side of Ravana's personality
In Ramayana, Ravana is described as defeated due to arrogance and unrighteousness, but at the same time he is also considered to be a person endowed with knowledge, power and penance. For this reason, different attitudes towards Ravana are seen in some parts of India.
Unique example of tradition and faith
This tradition of Rajasthan reflects the diversity of Indian culture. Here the same character is seen from different perspectives in different areas.
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