New Delhi: Amid heavy rain, President Droupadi Murmu attended the Dussehra celebrations at the Red Fort on Thursday, describing the Indian armed forces’ Operation Sindoor as a decisive victory over the “Ravana of terrorism.”
At Madhavdas Park in the Red Fort, the President symbolically drew a bow to mark the “Ravan Dahan,” highlighting that the festival has always represented the triumph of good over evil, humility over arrogance, and love over hatred. The event was organised by the Dharmic Ramlila Committee.
Murmu said, “When terrorism strikes humanity, it becomes imperative to respond. Operation Sindoor signifies our victory against the Ravana of terrorism, and we salute our soldiers for their courage.”
Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7 against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, following the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, mostly tourists.
Despite the rain, a large crowd gathered at the Red Fort to witness the Ravan Dahan. Recalling the tradition rooted in Lord Ram’s victory over Ravana, Murmu emphasized the deeper significance of the event.
She added, “This celebration is not only about destroying Ravana outside but also about overcoming the Ravana within ourselves. Only then can society progress in peace and harmony,” urging citizens to conquer inner evils.
Union Minister Smriti Irani also attended the event, and people watched the proceedings under umbrellas amid the downpour.
