Ancient Hindu mythology is the foundation of the festival of Dussehra, which is observed in various ways throughout India.
Lord Rama and his victory over the demon king Ravana is one of the greatest and exemplary stories of good over evil.
The Ramayana notes that, on this day, Lord Rama, with the aid of Lord Hanuman and his army, vanquished Ravana and freed his beloved wife, Sita, from captivity.
The effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghanada (Indrajit) are burned to represent the triumph of good over evil.