An irrepressibly enthusiastic crowd of over 450 people burst into cheers on Oct. 11, at the grounds of Greater Atlanta Vedic Temple, when the imposingly erected 12' gigantic effigy of Raavan, the demon king of Sri Lanka (Ceylon) was consumed in flames. There was a deafening sound produced by the outburst of firecrackers to signal

triumph of righteousness over evil. The weather gods did not spoil the grand event indicating the presence of divine blessings. The ashes spectacularly rose into the sky, to show to the world at large, that the evil has been vanquished and righteousness re-established.

Before the start of celebration Dr. Chandora narrated the age-old and time-honored legend behind the Dushehara festivities. According to the legend, several million years ago, the Divine Incarnate Lord Rama waged a ten-day war against the evil-minded Raavan, the king of demons, who had been harassing the godly Rishis and abducted Sita Devi the consort of Shri. Rama. On the 10th day of the war Rama, with support from his brother Lakshman and an army of apes killed Raavan and his brother Kumbhkarna and son Meghnad. This triumph of good over evil has since been celebrated every year as Dushehara or Vijayadashmi. Coincidentally, this day also marks the start of new cultivation for farmers in India. Businessmen set aside this day for the auspicious start of their new accounting system.

After rejoicing over the victory of righteousness, the crowd adjourned to the temple's prayer hall, to listen to an internationally renowned scholar Dr. Hariharan who spoke on the subject of "Relief of stresses and sicknesses thru the powers of melodious Indian music". Dr. Hariharan, is an authority on the subject,

and had done his doctoral research, on the beneficial effects of Indian music not only on humans, but also on animals including fishes.

Towards the end of the program, the crowd settled to enjoy the sumptuous feast. While retiring home, the parents had to face a barrage of questions from children on the unscrupulous and wicked Raavan and the personification of godliness, Shri. Ramchandra. Parents understood the eagerness of their children to learn more about our ancient wisdom.

This Dushera Celebrarion at Atlanta Vedic Temple was measure by any yardstick, a grand success. It would not have been possible, but for the great organizational skills of the well-known artist Vinod Sharma and the tireless efforts of all the volunteers.

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