Sat Oct 12 03:01:19 UTC 2024: ## Ravana’s Final Stand: Ramlila in Varanasi Reaches Climax
**Varanasi:** The 24th day of the renowned Ramnagar Ramlila witnessed the commencement of Ravana’s final battle. Having lost his army and family, Ravana decided to fight alone. He urged his remaining soldiers to flee if they wished, but not to abandon the battlefield. Ravana declared that he had fostered enmity through his power and now he would face its consequences.
Ignoring ill omens, a proud Ravana mounted his chariot and charged towards the battlefield. The Vanara army, upon seeing him approach, rushed to attack his forces. A fierce battle ensued between Ram and Ravana.
Witnessing Ram fighting on foot, Vibhishan expressed concern. He questioned how Ram could achieve victory without his chariot. Ram explained that his chariot was built on the pillars of Dharma, Satya, Dhriyat, and Paropkar. Knowledge and restraint were his weapons, and the divine presence of God was his charioteer. Vibhishan, convinced by Ram’s words, prostrated himself at his feet.
The Vanara and bear army was overwhelmed by Ravana’s attacks, which prompted Lakshman to intervene and fight the demon king. Ravana rained arrows on Lakshman, who skillfully deflected them and destroyed Ravana’s chariot. In a rage, Ravana unleashed the immense power granted to him by Brahma, injuring Lakshman and causing him to fall.
Ravana attempted to pick up Lakshman, but failed. Hanuman, observing this, charged at Ravana and delivered a powerful blow, knocking the demon unconscious. Once regained consciousness, Ravana acknowledged Hanuman’s strength.
As per Ram’s instructions, Lakshman rose and destroyed Ravana’s chariot. The wounded demon king was transported back to Lanka by his charioteer, where he started performing a ritual. The Ramlila concluded with the performance of the divine Aarti.
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