Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival in India. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is celebrated on the Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha of Ashwin month. Lord Rama killed Ravana on the day of Dussehra, so it is celebrated as Ravana Dahan. Apart from this, Goddess Durga also killed a demon named Mahishasura, so it also symbolizes the victory of power.
Ramlila, which is a drama based on the story of Lord Rama's life, is also staged on a large scale during Dussehra celebrations.
Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, holds immense importance in Indian culture. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil, Dharma over Adharma, and knowledge over ignorance. There are many religious, cultural and social reasons behind celebrating Vijayadashami, which make it special.
The Story of Rama and Ravana
The most famous religious significance of Vijayadashami is that on this day Lord Rama killed Ravana, the king of Lanka. Ravana had abducted Lord Rama's wife Sita, and Lord Rama defeated Ravana by fighting with the help of his brother Lakshmana and devotee Hanuman. This event is seen as the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated all over India as Ravana Dahan.
Durga Puja and Mahishasura Vadh
The second major significance of Vijayadashami is that on this day Goddess Durga killed the demon named Mahishasura. Mahishasura, who was a powerful demon, had terrorized heaven and earth. Goddess Durga defeated him on the tenth day after fighting for nine days, so it is considered a day of victory. In this context, Vijayadashami also symbolizes women's power and courage.
Cultural significance
Vijayadashami is celebrated in India through various cultural traditions. On this day, Ramlila is staged, which presents the entire story of Lord Rama in a live form. Also, it is celebrated differently in different states, such as Durga Puja immersion in West Bengal, while Ravana Dahan takes place in North India.
Spiritual significance
Vijayadashami also symbolizes the victory of self-restraint, discipline, and patience. This festival inspires people to overcome the evils within them, such as anger, ego, and greed. This day is also considered ideal for the beginning of auspicious and positive works.
Day of new beginnings and learning
Vijayadashami is considered auspicious for the beginning of new works. It is also associated with the worship of Saraswati, the goddess of education and knowledge. In many places, it is celebrated as “Vidyarambha”, where the education of young children begins. This day is of utmost importance for both students and teachers.
Agriculture and Weather Cycles
Vijayadashami is also related to agriculture and weather cycles. The festival falls at the time of Kharif harvest, which is a time of celebration and excitement for the farming community.
Taking together all the aspects of Vijayadashami, this festival inspires us to follow the right path in life, face difficulties, and follow the victory of truth and justice.
The ways of celebrating Vijayadashami (Dussehra) may vary in different parts of India, but its key elements are the celebration of the victory of good over evil. Here are some common and special ways to celebrate Vijayadashami:
Ravana Dahan
In North India, the main attraction of Vijayadashami is the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna.
- These effigies are made in an open ground and after the conclusion of Ramlila, the killing of Ravana by Lord Rama is shown. After this, fireworks are put on the effigies and they are burnt. This symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
Ramlila
Many places stage Ramlila, dramatizing the life of Lord Rama, especially his exile from Ayodhya, abduction of Sita, and his war with Ravana.
The play lasts for several days and culminates on Vijayadashami when Rama kills Ravana. Large numbers of people gather to witness it.
Durga Puja and Visarjan
In West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Vijayadashami marks the culmination of Durga Puja. The day commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura.
On this day, the idols of Goddess Durga are immersed, where they are immersed in water. On this occasion, people join the celebrations and bid farewell to Goddess Durga after offering prayers.
Shastra Puja
In states like Maharashtra and Karnataka, Shastra Puja (worship of weapons) is performed on Vijayadashami. It is seen as a symbol of strength and courage.
In ancient times, warriors used to worship their weapons on this day and it was considered an auspicious day to go to war. In today's times, people worship their work tools, vehicles, and tools of trade.
Ayudha Puja
In South India it is celebrated as Ayudha Puja where people worship their work tools, machines, and vehicles. These are decorated and considered to have religious significance on this day.
In particular, many people clean and decorate items related to their profession or work on this day and dedicate them to Goddess Lakshmi or Saraswati to receive their blessings.
New Beginnings
Vijayadashami is considered to be the day for starting auspicious works. Business people open new accounts or ledgers on this day, which is also called "account opening".
Marriages, housewarming, and other important functions are also considered auspicious on Vijayadashami.
Fairs and Cultural Programs
Fairs are organized at many places on this occasion, where people enjoy food, shopping, and cultural programs.
- Apart from Ramlila, dance, music, and other programs are also organized on the occasion of Vijayadashami.
Vijayadashami is important not only from religious but also from cultural and social point of view. This festival strengthens the sense of harmony, dharma, and justice in the society and symbolizes new beginnings.
