Dusshera 2023 - win over your evil

Dussehra the India-wide festival celebrating the victory of good over evil.

Lets know more about this vibrant and victory-joy-spreading festival of devotion to Lord Ram and Sita over the victory from demon king Raavan.

What is the significance of Dussehra in India?

Dussehra or Vijayadashami being one of the most devotely and widely celebrated significant festivals in India marks the triumph of good over evil and holds great cultural and historical importance. The word "Dussehra" itself states; "Dasha" meaning ten and "Hara" meaning defeat, signifying the defeat of the demon king Raavan by Lord Ram. This victory of righteousness over wickedness is at the heart of the Dussehra celebration.

Why do we celebrate Dussehra in India every year?

The story of Dussehra finds its roots in the epic Hindu tale, The Ramayana. According to which, Lord  Shri Ram, accompanied by his loyal brother Lakshman and the devoted monkey god Hanuman, embarked on a quest to rescue his wife, Sita, who was abducted by Raavan, the ten-headed demon king of Lanka. After a fierce battle that lasted ten days, Ram ultimately defeated Raavan on the tenth day, which is today nation-wide celebrated as Dussehra. The victory of Lord Rama symbolizes the victory of truth, dharma (righteousness), and virtue over falsehood and evil.

How Indian people celebrate Dussehra in their homes?

Dussehra is celebrated with immense enthusiasm and fervor throughout India. In the weeks leading up to the festival, people prepare for the occasion by cleaning and decorating their homes. The centerpiece of the celebration is the 'Ramlila,' a series of dramatic plays that reenact the various episodes of the Ramayan. These plays are performed in local communities and are a source of both entertainment and spiritual enrichment.

Another integral part of Dussehra celebrations is the burning of effigies of Raava, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghnad. This ritual is symbolic of the destruction of evil. Fireworks and bonfires light up the night sky, and the roar of the crowds adds to the festive atmosphere.

In some parts of the country, Dussehra is also associated with the worship of Goddess Durga. This marks the culmination of the nine-day festival of Navaratri, during which the goddess is honored through various rituals and dance performances.

Famous places to see the marvelous celebration of Dussehra in India.

While Dussehra is celebrated with zeal all across India, there are some places where the festivities are particularly grand. One of the most renowned Dussehra celebrations takes place in Mysore, Karnataka. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, and a grand procession featuring a decked-up elephant carrying the idol of the goddess Chamundeshwari is the highlight of the city's festivities.

In the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, Kullu Dussehra is famous for its unique and traditional celebrations. The town of Kullu is known for its week-long festival, featuring music, dance, and processions. The Dussehra celebration here involves carrying the idols of local deities from surrounding villages to the Kullu town.

Kolkata's Durga Puja, though primarily a celebration of Goddess Durga's triumph over the demon Mahishasura, coincides with Dussehra in some years. The city comes alive with magnificent pandals (temporary temples) dedicated to the goddess, and elaborate processions.

When is Dussehra 2023?

In 2023, Dussehra will be celebrated on the 24th of October.

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