Dussehra, also known as Vijay Dashami, is a vibrant festival celebrated with great fervor across India. It commemorates the triumph of good over evil, symbolized by two significant events in Hindu mythology: Maa Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura and Lord Rama’s defeat of the evil king Ravana. This year, Dussehra falls on October 13th, with the auspicious Vijay Muhurat lasting from 2:03 PM to 2:49 PM.
While the festival is usually celebrated on the last day of Durga Puja and Navratri, the exact date can sometimes vary based on the lunar calendar. This year, the Dashami tithi, the auspicious time for celebrating Dussehra, spans over two days, beginning at 10:58 AM on October 12th and ending at 9:08 AM on October 13th.
The Significance of Dussehra
Dussehra holds profound significance in Hindu culture. It reinforces the timeless message that righteousness ultimately prevails, even against the formidable forces of evil. The legend of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana is a powerful tale of courage, determination, and the triumph of justice. After being exiled for 14 years, Lord Rama, along with his brother Lakshmana and the loyal monkey army led by Hanuman, embarked on a daring mission to rescue Sita, Rama’s beloved wife, from the clutches of the evil Ravana, the king of Lanka. Their epic battle culminated on the tenth day, with Rama’s victory symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
In many regions of India, effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakaran, and his son Meghnath are built and then ceremoniously burned as part of the Dussehra celebrations, signifying the symbolic destruction of evil.
Celebrating Maa Durga’s Triumph
Dussehra also celebrates the victory of Maa Durga over Mahishasura, a powerful demon who terrorized the gods and goddesses. The festival commemorates the end of Durga Puja, a nine-day celebration honoring the goddess Durga. In West Bengal, Dussehra is marked with the vibrant and joyous Sindoor Khela, a ritual where women apply vermilion to one another, symbolizing the celebration of victory. The festivities also feature the Dhunuchi dance, a traditional dance accompanied by the rhythmic beating of drums and the vibrant glow of earthen lamps. The grand finale of Durga Puja, known as Durga Visarjan, sees the immersion of Durga idols in rivers or bodies of water, signifying the goddess’s return to her heavenly abode.
Dussehra, a vibrant celebration of victory, hope, and resilience, serves as a powerful reminder that good always triumphs over evil. As we celebrate this auspicious festival, let us embrace the spirit of righteousness and stand united in the fight against injustice.
