In photos: Dussehra celebrated throughout India as an emblem of excellent over evil

Hindus comply with a lunar calendar, and Dussehra falls on the tenth day after Navratri, a nine-night competition of worship and celebrations.

Within the days main as much as Dussehra in northern India, performers put on elaborate costumes and make-up to stage Ramlila, the dramatic retelling of the traditional Hindu epic Ramayana. They recount Lord Ram’s exile and his spouse Sita’s abduction by Ravan, culminating within the battle that symbolises the victory of excellent over evil. The ultimate act is adopted by the ritualistic burning of the effigies of Ravan, his brother, Kumbhkaran, and son Meghnath.

The colourful stage is normally accompanied by a carnival-like environment with meals stalls, rides and smaller performances.