Controversial Effigy Ignites Debate Over Dussehra Traditions

An effigy of Surpanakha, featuring women's images involved in crimes against husbands, is set to be burned during Dussehra celebrations in Indore. This initiative by Paurush aims to highlight misconduct by women, sparking debates around traditional festivities and modern societal issues.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Indore | Updated: 25-09-2025 20:13 IST | Created: 25-09-2025 20:13 IST
Controversial Effigy Ignites Debate Over Dussehra Traditions
This image is AI-generated and does not depict any real-life event or location. It is a fictional representation created for illustrative purposes only.
  • Country:
  • India

In Indore, an unconventional Dussehra tradition this year involves burning an effigy of Surpanakha with images of women accused of murdering their husbands. This includes Sonam Raghuvanshi, who allegedly plotted her husband's murder during their honeymoon. The initiative, led by the organization Paurush, aims to symbolize female misconduct.

The effigy, which boasts 11 heads, also features images of Muskan Rastogi from Meerut, accused alongside her lover of murdering her husband and concealing his dismembered body. Despite its controversial nature, Raja Raghuvanshi's brother supports the move, drawing parallels between Sonam and the mythological Surpanakha.

Paurush head Ashok Dashora stated that their goal is to spotlight the values of women involved in heinous acts. As Dussehra approaches, the event stirs dialogue on gender, crime, and cultural practices.

(With inputs from agencies.)

Give Feedback