This year, the effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhkaran at Patna's famous Gandhi Maidan will have a more colourful look. This is the first time in the history of the festival that the three effigies have been dressed in designer gear for Dusshera.

Incidentally, at the end of the hugely popular Ramleela staged at the maidan every year, the three effigies will be set on fire. "The colourful designer clothes have made them more attractive," Ashok Sudhakar, the creator of these unique designs, told rediff.com.

"The effigies of Ravan, Meghnad and Kumbhkaran have never worn designer clothes. It is an attempt to make them more colourful and popular for the next generation," said Ashok.

He admitted that it was a challenging task to create designs for these mythological characters. Ashok and his team of eight artisans worked day and night to give shape to their concepts and patterns. "Since the beginning, we had decided to make a difference by giving new looks to the three effigies," said the proud designer.

Ashok also used flax as the material for the special costumes. Hundreds of people, particularly youths, have lauded the new look of the popular effigies. "We were lauded and praised not only by the Rameela organising committee but also by the common people" said Ashok.

The designer and his team have also built a beautiful Lanka on the stage.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Union Railway Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav and several MPs and legislators are expected to attend the Ramleela, one of the biggest events in Patna.