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Historic Consecration at Ravana Temple: the ancient Shiv Mandir near Noida, believed to be the birthplace of Ravana, witnessed the installation of idols of Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman for the first time during the consecration ceremony on January 22. The auspicious occasion coincided with the ‘pran pratishtha’ ceremony of Ram Lalla at Ayodhya’s Ram temple.
As the consecration rituals unfolded in Ayodhya, some 650 km away in Bisrakh village, the idols of Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman were ceremoniously installed in the historic temple, establishing the divine court of Lord Ram. Mahant Ramdas, the chief priest, revealed that these revered idols were brought from Rajasthan.
Bisrakh village is traditionally considered the birthplace of Ravana, the antagonist of Lord Ram in the epic Ramayana. The village’s significance is deeply rooted in local beliefs, with claims that Ravana, Vibhishana, and Kumbhakaran were born here.
Contrary to the widespread celebration of Dussehra, Bisrakh residents observe the day of Ravana’s death with solemnity and mourning. Instead of burning effigies, the day is marked by prayers for Ravana’s soul and various rituals, including yajnas, to honor the son of the land.
The village’s claims about being Ravana’s birthplace have found support from local literary figures and renowned authors. The ancient temple, though lacking an idol of Ravana, features carvings depicting significant events from his life and the presence of his family members.
Mahant Ramdas emphasized the enduring reverence for Ravana in Bisrakh, describing him as a “brave Brahmin warrior” and an ancestor to the locals. The village’s unique approach to honoring Ravana reflects a cultural perspective that contrasts with the prevailing narrative.
