New Delhi: Dasara, marking triumph of good over evil, was celebrated across the country today (October 15) with traditional gaiety and enthusiasm.

Effigies of demon Ravana, his son Meghnath and brother Kumbakaran went up in flames at several places with people cheering and chanting slogans in praise of Lord Ram.

In the capital, the main function was held at the Subhash Maidan near the historic Red Fort with Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee gracing the occasion.

The crowds, including woman and children, turned euphoric as "Lord Ram" was brought to the venue in a procession to eliminate the symbols of evil.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) leader Madan Lal Khurana and Minister of State in Prime Minister's Office Vijay Goel were also present.

Sounds of drums filled the air as people chanted hymns to bid adieu to "Goddess Durga" which was immersed at sacred rivers culminating the 10-day "Durga" festival.

PTI