While Ravan effigies burn to mark the triumph of good over evil on Dussehra, there’s a quiet corner in Lucknow where his story is preserved, not in flames, but in stone. Hidden in the lanes of Chowk, the 130-year-old Chaaro Dhaam Temple offers a glimpse of Ravan’s life.
This symbolic display, found in one of Lucknow’s oldest neighbourhoods, stands as a different narrative. In fact, it’s one of the few places in North India where such a visual representation of Ravan exists. And contrary to popular stories, Lanka King is not worshipped here.
Inside the Ravan Darbaar
Inside the Chaaro Dham Temple, the Ravan Darbaar showcases the King of Lanka seated on his throne, with his ten heads, accompanied by his son Meghnada and brother Kumbh Karan.
The opposite side features Ram’s army, including Lakshman, Hanuman, and Vibhishan, creating a visual contrast between the two sides of the epic Ramayana.
While most of the temple is open for worship, the Ravan Darbaar exists solely to tell a story. No rituals or prayers take place here—just a quiet representation of the Ramayana’s key figures.
Why was the Darbaar created?
The revered temple was designed to represent the four sacred dhams, with one section symbolising Rameshwaram, where Hindu god Ram prepared for his journey to Sri Lanka. To complete the tale, a depiction of Ravan’s kingdom was included by the Founder.
If you’re looking to explore something different in Lucknow this Dussehra, the Chaaro Dhaam Temple is the place to be.
