Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival celebrated on the tenth day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin (September–October). It marks the victory of good over evil, and is observed with grandeur across India.
🕉️ Spiritual Significance
- In North India, Dussehra commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, the ten-headed demon king.
- In Eastern India, it marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
- The festival symbolizes righteousness (dharma) triumphing over unrighteousness (adharma).
🙏 Dussehra Puja Rituals
- Ramlila Performances:
- In many parts of India, dramatic enactments of the Ramayana (Ramlila) are held, culminating in the burning of effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnath.
- Durga Visarjan (In Eastern India):
- In Bengal and nearby regions, Dussehra marks the conclusion of Durga Puja with the visarjan (immersion) of Goddess Durga’s idols in rivers or water bodies.
- Shastra Puja (Worship of Weapons):
- People, especially in warrior communities, perform Shastra Puja, where they worship weapons and tools, symbolizing the power to protect righteousness.
- Aparajita Puja:
- Some perform the Aparajita Devi Puja, invoking the invincible form of Goddess Durga.
- Seema Vandana (Border Worship):
- In some traditions, people worship the boundaries of their land and offer respect to elders.
- Offering to the Deity:
- Devotees offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and incense to deities and recite Ramayana, Durga Saptashati, or Vijaya Dashami hymns.
🌼 Message of Dussehra
Dussehra inspires people to overcome inner evils like anger, greed, ego, and lies. It encourages truth, courage, and righteousness, reminding us that no matter how powerful evil may seem, goodness will always triumph.
