Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar will celebrate the traditional 'Ravan Podi Utsav' with great enthusiasm on Vijaya Dashami, with events scheduled at seven prominent locations across the city. This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil, re-enacting Lord Rama's conquest over the demon king Ravana from the epic Ramayana. 
Ravan Podi Utsav in Bhubaneswar: 7 Venues for Dussehra Celebration


Seven Venues for Ravan Podi Celebrations

According to the Twin City Commissionerate Police, the burning of Ravana's effigy will take place at seven designated venues . Each location falls under the supervision of specific police stations:
· Naharkanta (under Pahal Police Station)
· Baramunda (under Khandagiri Police Station)
· Koradakanta (under Badagada Police Station)
· Bankual (under Badagada Police Station)
· Gopalpur (under Info-Valley Police Station)
· KIITS Road (under Infocity Police Station)
· Football Ground (under Kapilaprasad Airfield Police Station)
The Fire Services Department has officially granted permission for the burning of the effigies at these locations.

Extensive Security Arrangements for Peaceful Celebrations

This year, Bhubaneswar hosts 193 Durga Puja pandals, creating a widespread festive atmosphere across the city . To ensure public safety and the smooth functioning of all events, the Commissionerate Police has implemented a comprehensive security plan.
Police authorities have deployed significant personnel for effective supervision, including three DCP-rank officers, six Additional DCPs, 12 DSPs, 33 Inspectors, and 172 Sub-Inspectors and Assistant Sub-Inspectors . The security force includes 38 platoons of police personnel and 20 platoons of Home Guards.

Specialized Security Units and Surveillance

The security deployment includes one company of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) along with units from the Special Tactical Unit and the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad . These specialized teams will help counter any potential security threats during the festivities.
Police have installed CCTV cameras at all major pandals and event venues to monitor activities and maintain order . This surveillance system helps deter and detect any criminal activities, ensuring a secure environment for all attendees.

City-Wide Festival Preparations

The Ravan Podi Utsav represents a much-anticipated spectacle in Bhubaneswar, drawing thousands of devotees and spectators each year . The ceremonial burning of the towering effigies of the demon king serves as the dramatic finale to the Dussehra festivities, vividly representing the eternal triumph of good over evil.
With the combination of elaborate rituals, vibrant pandals, and the dramatic Ravan Podi ceremony, Bhubaneswar prepares for a safe and spiritually significant Dussehra celebration. The Commissionerate Police has appealed to the public to cooperate with security personnel and celebrate the festival in a peaceful and safe manner.