New Delhi, October 2, 2025 – As the golden hues of autumn painted the capital’s skyline, Pared Maidan transformed into a sea of devotion and spectacle for one of Delhi’s most anticipated Dashehra events. Organized with meticulous grandeur by the Agrawal Sabha, the annual Ram Leela enactment drew thousands of families, blending ancient Hindu traditions with modern fervor. The evening’s climax – the symbolic Rawan Dahan (effigy burning of the demon king Ravana) – not only lit up the night sky but also reaffirmed the timeless victory of good over evil.
The Agrawal Sabha, a prominent community organization representing the Agrawal trading community, has been hosting this event for over two decades at Pared Maidan, a sprawling open ground in the heart of Old Delhi’s bustling lanes. Known locally as “Pared Maidan Dashehara,” the festival kicks off with nine days of Navratri rituals, culminating on Vijayadashami. This year, the Sabha spared no effort in curating an immersive experience, featuring live enactments of key episodes from the Ramayana epic, from Lord Rama’s exile to the epic battle in Lanka.
Under a canopy of twinkling lights and vibrant rangolis, the stage came alive with over 200 performers in resplendent costumes. Young artists from local drama schools portrayed Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana with such poise that the boundary between myth and reality blurred. The air echoed with the rhythmic beats of dhol drums, the soulful strains of bhajans, and the collective chants of “Jai Shri Ram.” Special attractions included a massive 50-foot effigy of Ravana, meticulously crafted by artisans from Agra, adorned with firecrackers symbolizing the demon’s hubris.
“We organize this not just as a festival, but as a cultural anchor for our youth,” said Rajesh Agrawal, President of the Agrawal Sabha. “In an era of digital distractions, Ram Leela reminds us of dharma, family bonds, and resilience. The Rawan Dahan is our collective pledge to burn away societal evils like corruption and division.” The Sabha’s efforts extended beyond entertainment, with free health camps, food distribution for the underprivileged, and eco-friendly initiatives like using biodegradable materials for decorations – a nod to sustainable celebrations amid growing environmental concerns.
As dusk fell, the crowd swelled to an estimated 15,000, including dignitaries from neighboring communities and even a delegation from the local municipal council. The tension built masterfully during the final act, where Rama’s arrow struck Ravana’s effigy, igniting a cascade of fireworks that roared like thunder. Flames danced skyward in a mesmerizing display, accompanied by laser shows and drone formations depicting scenes from the Ramayana. Cheers erupted as the blaze subsided, leaving behind a palpable sense of unity and renewal.
This year’s event stood out for its inclusivity, with performances in Hindi, English, and even snippets in regional dialects to engage Delhi’s diverse populace. Families picnicked on the grounds, savoring stalls offering jalebi, rabri, and fusion chaat, while children donned mini warrior outfits for photo ops. Security was robust, with volunteers and police ensuring a smooth flow, especially after last year’s minor stampede scares at larger venues like Ramlila Maidan.
Pared Maidan’s Dashehra holds a special place in Delhi’s festival calendar, distinct from the high-profile spectacles at Ramlila Maidan or Red Fort. While those draw national leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu for their Rawan Dahan rituals, the Agrawal Sabha’s rendition emphasizes community roots. “It’s intimate yet grand – like a family reunion with the gods,” quipped attendee Priya Sharma, a local teacher who has attended for 15 years.
As the embers cooled and the crowd dispersed under a starlit sky, the message lingered: Just as Rama triumphed through righteousness, so too can modern society conquer its demons. The Agrawal Sabha has already announced plans for next year, promising augmented reality elements to draw in tech-savvy millennials. For now, Pared Maidan rests, its grounds infused with the sacred scent of victory.
This article captures the essence of the event based on eyewitness accounts and organizer insights. For more on Delhi’s Ram Leela traditions, explore the city’s historic maidans where folklore meets festivity.
