Daspalla: While Lord Rama, the epitome of righteousness and devotion, is revered across India as the hero of the Ramayana, his adversary, Ravana—the mighty king of Lanka—is often portrayed as the villain. However, in a rare and unique tradition, the people of Daspalla in Nayagarh district, Odisha, worship Ravana with great reverence. This centuries-old practice, observed during the famous Lankapodi Yatra, sets Daspalla apart as the only place in India where Ravana is honored in such a grand manner. 
35-foot-tall wooden idol of Ravana at Daspalla


The Unparalleled Tradition of Ravana Worship 

For over 221 years, the Mahavir Kshetra in Daspalla has been hosting a distinctive ritual where Ravana is worshipped on the day of Sita Haran (the abduction of Sita). Unlike the rest of India, where Ravana is burned in effigy during Dussehra, Daspalla celebrates him as a learned scholar, a devoted Shiva bhakt, and a mighty warrior. 
Ravana, the son of the sage Vishrava, was not just a demon king but also a profound scholar, a master of Tantra, and a great devotee of Lord Shiva. He was the composer of the Ravana Samhita, an authority on astrology, and the creator of the Shiva Tandava Stotram. Despite his flaws, his knowledge, devotion, and political prowess are acknowledged in Dashapalla’s tradition. 

The Grand Rituals of Daspalla 

The rituals here are unlike any other. A 35-foot-tall wooden idol of Ravana is crafted with intricate details, making it the only movable wooden Ravana idol in India. What makes this tradition even more unique is the involvement of Brahmin priests who perform Prana Pratishtha (life-infusing rituals) to the idol, treating Ravana as a deity rather than a demon. 
After elaborate worship, offerings of Pana (a sweet drink) and Mua (a traditional sweet) are made to Ravana. Surprisingly, these offerings are not consumed by anyone but are instead buried in the ground—a practice that remains shrouded in mystery. 

Why is Ravana Worshipped Here 

While Ravana’s abduction of Sita is condemned, Dashapalla’s tradition emphasizes his virtues—his unmatched knowledge, his devotion to Shiva, and his contributions to Vedic scriptures. The locals believe that acknowledging only his misdeeds is unfair; his wisdom and spiritual achievements must also be recognized. 
This tradition also highlights the cultural diversity of India, where even the most controversial figures are given respect in certain communities. Dashapalla’s Ravana worship is a reminder that no character in mythology is entirely black or white—there are layers of complexity that deserve acknowledgment. 

A Festival Unlike Any Other 

The Lankapodi Yatra, held annually, is a grand spectacle where thousands gather to witness the procession of Ravana’s idol. Unlike the burning of Ravana’s effigy in Dussehra, Dashapalla’s festival concludes with the wooden idol being taken in a procession, symbolizing respect rather than destruction. 
This rare tradition has made Daspalla a significant cultural landmark, attracting historians, scholars, and devotees who seek to understand this unique aspect of Indian mythology. 

Video by NKNEWS ODISHA

Conclusion 

In a country where Ravana is predominantly seen as a symbol of evil, Daspalla stands as an exception, honoring his intellectual and spiritual legacy. This centuries-old practice challenges conventional narratives and offers a different perspective on one of Hinduism’s most complex characters. 
Daspalla’s Mahavir Kshetra remains a testament to India’s rich and diverse traditions, where even the most debated figures find reverence in unexpected ways. 
(Reported by Ratnakar Hota)