Before we dive into the glue and glitter, it is essential to understand why we celebrate. The name Dussehra is derived from the Sanskrit word Dasha-hara, which literally means the “removal of ten.” This refers to Lord Rama’s victory over the ten-headed demon king, Ravana.
By engaging in “Recreate Ramayana” crafts, children don’t just make toys; they build a connection to virtues like courage, honesty, and devotion.
Why Kids Love These Projects:
- Interactive Storytelling: Moving a handmade puppet makes the battle of Lanka feel real.
- Skill Development: Cutting, painting, and assembling improve fine motor skills and patience.
- Cultural Pride: Understanding the “why” behind festivals builds a lasting bond with traditions.
DIY Toilet Roll Ravana: Step-by-Step Guide
This is one of our favorite “Day 9 & 10” Navratri activities. It’s eco-friendly, uses common household items, and creates a striking 3D figure of the King of Lanka.
Materials You Will Need:
- Structure: 1 Empty toilet paper roll.
- The 10 Heads: 2 Egg carton cups (to be modified).
- Paper Supplies: Golden, black, and white craft paper.
- Paints: White, red, and black poster paints.
- Tools: Scissors, glue, and a stapler.
Instructions:
1. Creating the Base and Skin Tone
First, we need to create a realistic skin tone. Mix a large amount of white paint with a small drop of red to create a peach color. Paint the entire toilet paper roll with this mixture. Pro-tip: Save a little peach paint in a capped container for the nose later!
2. Preparing the Extra Heads
Since Ravana is famous for his ten heads, we use egg carton cups to represent them. Cut the cups from the edges to make them slightly smaller and more uniform. Paint these cups white to provide a clean base for the eyes.
3. Crafting the Iconic Features
- The Nose: Cut a small circle from white paper and paint it with the peach color you saved. Once dry, fold the circle into a small cone, staple the ends, and stick it right between where the eyes will go.
- The Eyes: Once the white paint on your egg cartons is dry, use black poster paint (or a marker) to dab two dots for the eyes.
- The Moustache & Eyebrows: Cut bold, “demon-king” style eyebrows and a thick moustache from black craft paper. Stick these onto the toilet roll to give Ravana his fierce expression.
4. The Royal Finishing Touches
Every king needs a crown. Cut a majestic crown shape out of the golden craft paper. Wrap it around the top edge of the toilet roll and staple it securely. Finally, use your red paint to give Ravana a wide, confident smile.
More Ways to Recreate the Ramayana
If you want to build a full “Ramayana Corner” in your home, don’t stop at Ravana! Here are three additional ideas to keep the momentum going:
1. Ramayana Hand Puppets
Hand puppets are the ultimate tool for a home theater. You can create Rama, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman using simple felt or thick cardstock.
- Rama: Use blue paper and add a golden bow.
- Hanuman: Use orange paper and don’t forget the long, curved tail!
- Sita: Use vibrant colors like pink or purple for her traditional attire.
2. DIY Story Standees
If you prefer a 3D display over puppets, “standees” are the way to go. Use the cardboard from cereal boxes to cut out character shapes. Fold a small tab at the bottom to make them stand upright. This allows children to arrange the characters on a “map” of the journey from Ayodhya to Lanka.
3. Canvas & Paper Coloring
For those who feel that “making stuff is not my forte,” coloring is a fantastic alternative. There are many high-quality resources where you can download Ramayana coloring sheets.
- Educational Tip: As your child colors, tell them the story of that specific scene. For example, while they color a bridge, explain how the Vanar Sena (monkey army) helped Lord Rama cross the ocean.
Comparison of Craft Styles
Depending on your child’s age and interest, you can choose the right project:
| Craft Type | Skill Level | Best For… |
| Toilet Roll Ravana | Intermediate | Learning about 3D shapes and Ravana’s ego. |
| Paper Hand Puppets | Easy | Role-playing and interactive storytelling. |
| Golden Bow & Arrow | Advanced | Active play and “Warrior” roleplay. |
| Coloring Kits | Beginner | Focusing on the details of the costumes and scenes. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best age for these crafts?
Most of these crafts are perfect for children aged 5 to 12. Younger kids will need help with scissors and staplers, while older children can add intricate details to the golden crowns and armor.
How can I make these crafts eco-friendly?
Always try to upcycle! Use old newspapers for paper-mâché, toilet rolls for bodies, and leftover fabric scraps for the characters’ clothes. This teaches children the value of “Best from Waste.”
Can these be used for school projects?
Absolutely! A DIY Ravana or a Ramayana diorama is a classic school project for the festive season. They are visually striking and show a deep understanding of the epic.
Conclusion: Victory of Creativity
Crafting during the festive season is about more than just glue and paper—it’s about creating memories. By building a ten-headed Ravana or a brave Hanuman, you are giving your children a tangible way to explore the themes of victory, loyalty, and dharma.
These activities transform a centuries-old story into a living, breathing experience right on your dining table. So, grab your paints, clear some space, and let the epic begin!
