Lucknow, Sept. 30 -- The towering effigy of Ravana, a key highlight of Dussehra celebrations at Aishbagh Ramleela Ground, will stand at 65 feet this year-down from the earlier 120 feet.

The decision comes in response to safety concerns raised due to the growing number of huts and residential colonies surrounding the grounds. Not only this, only green certified crackers of low decibels will be used in the effigy.

President of Shri Ramleela Samiti Aishbagh Harish Chandra Agarwal said, "We had to consider public safety first. A 120-foot effigy could have endangered nearby residents, so we've brought it down to 65 feet."

Despite the height reduction, Aishbagh will still host the tallest Ravana effigy in the city this year. The tradition of...