Kanpur's Rare Dashanan Temple Opens Doors for Annual Dussehra Rituals
The historic Dashanan Temple in Kanpur opens its doors just once a year on Dussehra. Discover the unique rituals honoring Ravana's scholarship.
While the rest of the country prepares to burn effigies of Ravana to celebrate the victory of good over evil, a unique tradition unfolds in the Shivala area of Kanpur. On October 20, 2026, the doors of the historical Dashanan Temple Kanpur Dussehra worship site were opened, marking the only day of the year when devotees can enter this sacred space.
A Once-a-Year Spiritual Window
Located within the serene Kailash temple complex, the Dashanan temple follows a strict and ancient protocol. The temple remains locked throughout the year, opening its gates exclusively on the occasion of Vijayadashami. This year, the auspicious timing for the celebrations commenced at 12:51 PM, though the anticipation among the faithful began much earlier, with devotees gathering in the early morning hours to catch a glimpse of the deity.
Rituals of Reverence: Honoring the Scholar
The worship at the Dashanan temple is distinct from the typical narratives of the Ramayana. Here, Ravana is not viewed as a villain, but is revered for his immense scholarship, his intellectual prowess, and his unwavering devotion to Lord Shiva. Devotees visit the temple specifically to seek blessings for strength, wisdom, and intellect.
The day's proceedings are marked by a series of meticulous rituals:
- The Holy Bath: The ceremonies begin with the ritualistic bathing (abhishek) of the five-foot-tall statue of Ravana using milk and holy water.
- Prayer and Light: Following the bath, prayers are offered, and a special 'aarti' is conducted to honor the deity.
- Offerings: Worshipers express their devotion by offering fresh flowers and lighting oil lamps.
A Legacy Spanning 150 Years
The temple is not just a place of worship but a monument of historical significance. It was constructed in 1868 by Maharaj Guru Prasad Shukla, establishing a tradition that has now persisted for over 150 years. This enduring legacy continues to draw crowds who wish to participate in a ritual that defies the common customs of the festival.
"The rituals, including the ceremonial bathing and prayers, are performed immediately after the temple doors are unsealed in the morning," explained temple priest Pandit Ram Bajpai.
The Closing of the Gates
The window of accessibility is brief. Once the day's rituals are completed and the public viewing concludes, the temple doors are sealed once again. The sanctuary will remain locked and silent, undisturbed by the outside world, until the arrival of the next Dussehra festival.