Delhi Ramlila to Burn 30-Foot Cockroach Effigy Alongside Ravan

A 30-foot-tall cockroach effigy is set to be burned alongside the effigies of Ravan, Kumbhkaran and Meghnad during this year’s Ramlila celebrations in Pitampura, Delhi. The Shree Keshav Ram Leela Committee said the unusual addition symbolises dirt and filth and is intended to spread awareness about cleanliness under the Swachh Bharat and Swachh Delhi campaigns. The initiative has attracted public attention because of its unconventional theme and its inclusion in the traditional Dussehra celebrations, which symbolise the victory of good over evil.

The announcement comes amid ongoing protests by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which has been demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in electoral rolls. Committee president and BJP MLA Ashok Goel has denied that the decision has any political motive, maintaining that the cockroach effigy is intended solely to promote cleanliness and convey a social message. Nevertheless, the timing of the announcement has drawn attention, as the CJP continues its demonstrations in the national capital.