Today is "Dussehra" in India. On this day, according to Hindu mythology Lord Rama killed the great demon Ravana who had abducted Rama's wife Sita to his kingdom of Lanka. Rama, his brother Lakshmana, their follower Hanuman and an army of monkeys fought a great battle to rescue Sita. The entire narrative is recorded in the epic Ramayana, a Hindu scripture.All over the country, this day is celebrated as a victory of good over evil and people re-enact the entire story, the climax of which culminates in giant  effigies of Ravana, filled with fireworks being burnt.

Ramleela - The re-enactment of the story of Ramayana on Dussehra. Since this tradition has existed from ancient times where it was taboo for a woman to go on stage, the role of Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, was performed by a man - a tradition that continues to this day.

As usual, you can check out the extra large versions on my G+ page.