India is a land of diversity, and this diversity is beautifully reflected in its numerous festivals and celebrations. One such festival that stands out with its grandeur and significance is Vijayadashami, commonly known as Dussehra. Vijayadashami is a major Hindu festival celebrated with enthusiasm and fervor throughout the country. It marks the victory of good over evil and has deep-rooted cultural and historical significance. The Dussehra festival is celebrated on the tenth day of the Ashwin month in the Hindu calendar, typically in September or October, at the end of Navaratri.
According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana on this day. Ravana had abducted Rama’s wife, Sita, and kept her captive in his kingdom of Lanka. Rama emerged victorious from a long and fierce battle against Ravana, rescuing Sita in the process.
Another legend associated with Vijayadashami is the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Mahishasura was a formidable demon who had instilled fear in both the gods and humans. Goddess Durga took the form of a fearsome warrior and fought Mahishasura for nine days and nights. On the tenth day, she finally defeated Mahishasura and restored peace and order in the world.
Dussehra is a joyous celebration of the victory of good over evil. It is a time to reflect on our own lives and make a commitment to follow the path of righteousness. Family and friends come together to celebrate this festival and offer prayers to the deity. At home and temple Perform a puja of Lord Rama and Goddess Durga. They Offer flowers, fruits, and sweets to the deity and say mantras and hymns. People perform the puja of home, office, car, bike, and weapons worship. On this day, traditional sweet dishes are made at every house. People also exchange sweets and gifts with friends and family.
Dussehra is a popular day for starting new businesses and ventures, as it is believed to be an auspicious day that will bring success and prosperity. It is also considered auspicious to buy new clothes, gold, a home, a car, a bike, and other valuables on Dussehra.
The Dussehra festival is celebrated on the tenth day, before nine days Navratri, an exuberant festival celebrated in India, extends over nine nights devoted to the goddess Durga. It is marked by lively festivities featuring dancing and music. Participants adorn themselves in traditional Gujarati clothing, such as women wearing chaniya choli and men donning kedia and pajamas, often accentuated with silver jewelry. The celebrations showcase garba, a circular dance, and dandiya, a wooden stick dance, with their origins in Gujarat. These dances pay homage to the divine feminine and symbolize the victory of good over evil, embodying the essence of Navratri. Remarkably, they have gained popularity well beyond the boundaries of Gujarat.
This day is a symbol of hope and optimism, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, good will always triumph in the end. To honor this event, effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghnad are burnt in various parts of India, which takes place in open grounds.
The Dussehra festival is celebrated around the world. In the United States, major cities with significant Indian populations, such as New York and Los Angeles, observe Dussehra. In the United Kingdom, cities like London, Leicester, and Birmingham participate in the celebrations. In Canada, as well as in Australia, cities like Sydney and Melbourne join in the festivities. Even in the Gulf countries, which have a substantial Indian expatriate population, Dussehra is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, among others, mark the occasion. In Nepal, Dussehra holds a special place in the hearts of Nepalese people. The celebration of Dussehra is also observed in other parts of the world.
Vijayadashami, or Dussehra, is not just a festival; it is a symbol of the enduring belief in the triumph of good over evil. Dussehra’s significance has transcended borders, touching the hearts of people from various cultural backgrounds. These celebrations not only offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indian culture but also serve as a testament to the universal values of righteousness and the victory of good over evil. Whether in the heart of India or across the world, Dussehra stands as a symbol of hope and unity.