In India people burn effigies of Ravana (king of demons) on the 10th day of Dassera while in Britain, people burn effigies of a man named Guy Fawkes on 5th November, which is called Guy Fawkes ‘Day or Bonfire Night.
The story goes back to November 1605, when a group of people plotted to do away with King James1 of England and his ministers. Their plan called for blowing up both Houses of Parliament when they were in session.
The leader of the conspirators, Robert Catesby, hired a cellar beneath the House of Lords, and filled with it 36 barrels of gun powder. One of the conspirators, Guy Fawkes was left behind to light the fuse. However plot was discovered and Guy Fawkes was arrested. He was later tried and hanged.
The next day on November 5th, when the people of England learnt about what had happened they lit bonfires to celebrate their King’s escapes from the jaws of death. This became the annual practice. Later the celebrations became more elaborate. Fireworks lit up the sky and effigies of Guy Fawkes were burnt.
Now days, Guy Fawkes Day is celebrated not only in Britain but also in some former British colonies, notably-New Zealand and Canada.
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