Vijyadashami
Vijyadashami is observed as triumph of good over evil. Lord Rama is the symbol of good whereas Ravana symbolizes evil. The annual ritual of burning the effigies of Ravana along with his kiths and kins in different corners of India as a mark of Vijyadashami results in burning of fuel wood in hundreds of tonnes by cutting trees. Besides, effigy-burning also culminates in pollution of air. The time has come to change the mind-set and stop wasting wood and rather save trees. Ravana as symbol of evil represents our negative thoughts which should be abandoned immediately and we should take solemn pledge on this day to do good to others in word, action and deed. We should think of the poor and down-trodden segments of the society and work for their uplift.
Instead of cutting trees for burning effigies, we should take pledge to plant more trees so that the demon of global warming is kept at bay and fresh air is ushered in for of all to breathe. More trees mean less pollution and clean environment for all of us.
