Dashanan Temple in Kanpur observes unique Ravana worship

The Dashanan Temple, located within the Kailash Temple complex in the Shivala area of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, observes a unique religious tradition where Ravana is worshipped on the occasion of Vijayadashami. Unlike the common practice of burning effigies to symbolize the destruction of evil, this temple opens its doors only once a year on Dussehra to honor Ravana as a profound scholar, an intelligent being, and a devoted follower of Lord Shiva.

Built in 1868 by Maharaj Guru Prasad Shukla, the temple holds rituals where the statue of Ravana is bathed with milk and holy water. Devotees visit the temple to offer flowers and light oil lamps, seeking blessings for strength, wisdom, and intellect. The temple priest, Pandit Ram Bajpai, noted that while effigies are burned in the evening, the intent is to destroy ego rather than the figure of Ravana himself. The Bajpai family has maintained this tradition for three generations.