PM Modi, President Kovind participate in Dussehra celebrations

NEW DELHI: Bringing the festival of Dussehra to full-circle, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shooted an arrow at Ravana's effigy in New Delhi's Ram leela maidan on Friday evening. President Ram Nath Kovind also attended the celebrations.
The burning of the giant effigies, signifying the triumph of good over evil, was organised by the Luv Kush Ram Leela Committee.

PM Modi, President Kovind applied 'tilak' on the forehead of participants playing the role of Ram, Sita and Lakshman at the stage amid chants of Jai Shree Ram by the audience.

The PM and the President enjoyed watching epic Ramayana's final scenes in which Lord Ram mangles Lanka's king Ravana by aiming for his naval. Following the enactment, PM Modi aimed his bow and arrow at the effigies.

Environment Minister Harsh Vardhan and Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari also attended the celebrations.

Speaking at the event , Kovind said the festival gives inspiration to lead a honest life.

"I want to congratulate the people of the country on the occasion of Vijaydashmi. Vijaydashmi marks the victory of good over evil. The festival encourages good practices in their lives," he said.

"One should take care that during celebrations we should be careful that it does not cause inconvenience to others and cause pollution," he said.

He advocated for cleaner environment and women empowerment in his speech.

(With inputs from agencies)