Dussehra / Vijayadashami – 10 days Festival celebrating victory of Good over Evil

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most popular festivals celebrated in India. The festival is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across the country, especially in the states of West Bengal, Karnataka, and Odisha. Dussehra is a ten-day festival that culminates with the victory of good over evil.

The festival of Dussehra is celebrated to honor and remember the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. According to Hindu mythology, Ravana had kidnapped Lord Rama’s wife, Sita, and taken her to his kingdom of Lanka. Lord Rama, along with his brother Lakshmana and Hanuman, fought a fierce battle with Ravana and finally defeated him on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Dussehra.

Dussehra is also celebrated to honor the goddess Durga, who fought and killed the demon Mahishasura. According to Hindu mythology, Mahishasura had acquired the power to change his shape at will and used this power to create chaos and destruction. The goddess Durga, riding a lion, fought a fierce battle with Mahishasura and killed him on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Dussehra.

The festival of Dussehra is celebrated with great pomp and show across India. People dress up in new clothes, exchange sweets and gifts, and decorate their homes with flowers and lights. The festival is also marked by cultural programs, including dance and music performances, and street processions featuring the idols of Lord Rama and the goddess Durga.

One of the highlights of the Dussehra festival is the traditional ‘Ram Lila’ performance, which is a reenactment of the story of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. The play is usually performed over several days, and people from all walks of life gather to watch the performances and cheer on the actors.

Another popular feature of the Dussehra festival is the ‘Ravana Dahan,’ where a huge effigy of Ravana is set on fire to symbolize the victory of good over evil. The effigy is usually made of bamboo and paper and is filled with fireworks, which make the burning of the effigy a spectacular sight.

In conclusion, Dussehra is a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil and the triumph of righteousness over injustice. The festival is a time for people to come together and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of India. With its vibrant colors, lively music, and enthusiastic celebrations, Dussehra continues to be an important festival in India and an occasion to spread joy and happiness.