Thu Oct 02 13:30:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Rain Dampens Dussehra Celebrations Across India, Forces Event Cancellations**
**New Delhi, October 12, 2025** – Vijaya Dashami celebrations were in full swing across India today, but heavy rains played spoilsport, disrupting planned Ravana Dahan events and forcing cancellations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sonia Gandhi were among those who had to alter their plans due to the inclement weather. Modi was scheduled to attend the event at IP Extension, while Gandhi was to participate in the Nav Shree Dharmik Ramlila at the Red Fort.
Despite the downpour, President Droupadi Murmu attended the Dussehra celebrations at Red Fort, where she symbolically initiated the Ravana Dahan by shooting an arrow. She emphasized the festival’s message of the triumph of good over evil, humility over arrogance, and love over hatred. The event was organized by the Dharmik Ramlila Committee.
President Murmu also highlighted the significance of “Operation Sindoor,” stating it symbolized a decisive victory over the “Ravana of terrorism.” She saluted the Indian armed forces for their efforts.
“When terrorism attacks humanity, it becomes necessary to fight it,” the President said.
Despite the rain, a large crowd gathered at the Red Fort to witness the Ravana Dahan, with many using umbrellas to shield themselves from the elements. Union Minister Smriti Irani was also present at the event.
The unseasonal heavy rainfall impacted celebrations in other parts of the country as well. In Patna, the Ravana effigy was damaged prior to burning, with its head falling off. In Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh, the Ravana effigy tilted backwards due to the rain. The rain dampened the festive mood in Delhi-NCR.
First Piper 