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Indore Temple Worships Ravana Instead of Burning Effigy on Dussehra

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News18•20-10-2026, 11:25
Indore Temple Worships Ravana Instead of Burning Effigy on Dussehra
- •At the Lankeshwar Mahadev Temple in Indore, Ravana is worshipped on Dussehra instead of burning his effigy.
- •The Gauhar family has been performing a Mahayagna and special prayers for Ravana's long life here for about 30 years.
- •The temple houses idols of Ravana along with other family members including Meghnath, Kumbhkaran, Shurpanakha, and Mandodari.
- •A unique Ravana Chalisa is kept in the temple, and even the family members' names are inspired by Ravana's lineage.
Key Questions Answered
The Lankeshwar Mahadev Temple in Indore has observed the unique tradition of worshipping Ravana on Dussehra for about 30 years instead of burning his effigy, organizing a Mahayagna and special prayers for his long life.
The temple houses idols of Ravana and his family members like Meghnath and Mandodari, features a special 'Ravana Chalisa', and is served by priest Mahesh Gauhar's family, whose members even have names inspired by Ravana's family.
The Lankeshwar Mahadev Temple was officially established on October 10, 2010, becoming a distinct identity in Indore for its unique Vijayadashami traditions.





