The joyous celebration of Navratri concludes with Dussehra – the festival marking the end of evil. Known by various names across India like Dasara, Dashain, and Vijayadashmi, the festival, falling on October 2, 2025, is celebrated in honor of the day that Rama killed the evil king Ravana as per Hindu legends. In many parts of India, Dussehra is celebrated by burning effigies of Ravana, a tradition also known as ‘Ravana Dahan’. And one of the best places to experience Ravan Dahan in India is none other than the national capital of Delhi. So, here’s team unstumbled guiding you on the best places to watch Ravan Dahan in Delhi 2025!
Ravan Dahan In Delhi 2025: Best Picks To Witness This Festive Spectacle
Behind The Legend: What Is Ravan Dahan?
Large effigies of the demon king Ravana and his partners Meghnath and Kumbhkaran are burned at the ancient Ravan Dahan festival. Legend has it that Ravana is defeated on Dussehra, signifying the destruction of ego, lust, anger, greed, and weaknesses. The act of burning these effigies is a powerful reminder that good triumphs over evil, so it is no wonder why the festival is celebrated all across India. Here are the top five locations in Delhi to see the Ravan Dahan if you are eager to see the flaming spectacle of Ravana’s demise.
‘Ravan Dahan’ literally translates to ‘the burning of Ravan’. As per Hindu mythology, Ravana kidnapped Rama’s wife Sita to avenge his sister’s humiliation when she tried to seduce Rama and his brother Lakshmana. To rescue his wife from the clutches of Ravana, Ram gathered an army of the ‘vanara’ clan and marched his way to Lanka, thought to be the current-day Sri Lanka. After days and weeks of intense battle, Rama managed to slay Ravana, and now the day is celebrated as Dussehra.
Today, Ravan Dahan is celebrated by burning effigies of the demon king and lighting the effigy with fire. He is associated with vices like greed, ego, anger, lust, and pride, so burning his effigy is considered to be an act of getting rid of such vices and in turn fostering the qualities of righteousness, kindness, and truthfulness.
Best Places To Visit In Delhi For Ravan Dahan 2025!
Ramlila Maidan
Ramlila Maidan is a large ground in the Chandni Chowk area in New Delhi. As the name suggests, the ground is known for its iconic Ramlila celebrations each year. It was a large pond before it was filled up in the early 1930s to accommodate Ramlila celebrations that began in the city way back in the 1800s. Today, it is a major landmark in New Delhi, hosting not just the annual Ramlila and Ravan Dahan events but also political rallies, cultural programs, and other important events. The ground is known for its vibrant festive celebration of Ramlila as well as its iconic landmark for Dussehra festivities across India.
Address: Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Ramlila Ground, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi, 110002
Nearest metro station: Chandni Chowk, Chawri Bazar, New Delhi
Red Fort Ramlila
Red Fort is one of the most iconic monuments in India, dating back to the 17th century. The iconic red sandstone facade is where India’s official Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations take place. Along with it, the fort grounds are also known for their annual Ramlila celebrations. In 2025, the Ravan Dahan in Delhi’s Red Fort will be attended by Hindi actor Bobby Deol. Recently seen in the Netflix show ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’, the actor will perform the Ravan Dahan celebrations at the Red Fort Dussehra event.
Address: Netaji Subhash Marg, Lal Qila, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi, Delhi, 110006
Nearest metro station: Lal Qila
DDA Grounds (Sector 10)
Located in Pitampura, DDA Grounds are known for having one of the best Dussehra celebrations in Delhi NCR (National Capital Region). The grounds are known for their vibrant Dussehra and how it blends the traditional festive spirit with modern-day celebrations. Be it the grand stage setup, colorful performances, and a lively atmosphere, the Dussehra celebrations at DDA Grounds attract Delhiites from all corners of the city. Visit the DDA Grounds to get a lively, more culturally-rooted Dussehra and Ravan Dahan.
Address: Sector 10 Dwarka, Dwarka, Delhi, 110075
Nearest metro station: Dwarka Sector 10 Metro Station
Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra
If you’re keen on witnessing a grand theatrical spectacle of the Ramlila celebration in New Delhi, you must definitely visit Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra. The theatrical production of the Ramayana here attracts crowds from across Delhi. The Ramlila celebration here has been one of the oldest of its kind in Delhi, dating back to 1957. So, when are you visiting the Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra?
Address: 1, Copernicus Marg, Mandi House, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
Nearest metro station: Mandi House
Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
The Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, also known as JLN Stadium, is known for some of the best Ramlila and Ravan Dahan celebrations in the city. The Shri Ram Dharmik Leela Committee hosts this festive celebration, including not just the iconic Ravan Dahan tradition but also a spectacular fair with plenty of fun rides and food stalls. Stay here for the vibrant fireworks show that follows the Ravan Dahan tradition, and you’ll thank us later!
Address: CGO Complex, Pragati Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110003
Nearest metro station: JLN Stadium
Summing Up
The iconic Ramlila celebrations in New Delhi are definitely a cultural extravaganza that you shouldn’t miss out on. Be it the JLN Stadium, Red Fort, or the iconic Ramlila Maidan, these venues are just perfect for enjoying Ravan Dahan in its most authentic form. So, are you ready to experience a culturally rich, vibrant, and truly exhilarating experience in Delhi?
