Historical Significance: Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, symbolizing the enduring victory of good over evil, a narrative that has inspired countless generations.
Good over Evil Celebration:
Dussehra, or popularly known as Vijayadashami, is a festival showcasing the victory of good over bad. It was to celebrate the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana in fulfillment of the triumph of righteousness and dharma over adharma.
End of Navaratri:
Dussehra is the tenth and final day of the Navaratri festival, which is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. The day is celebrated in great aplomb throughout India; each region lends its unique customs and traditions to the celebration of the day.
Burning of Effigies:
One of the most iconic Dussehra traditions is the burning of huge effigies of Ravana, which comes along with his brother Kumbhkaran and son Meghnath. This is symbolic of the destruction of the evil forces, accompanied by fireworks and celebration.
Ram Leela Performances:
In North India, particularly at Delhi and Varanasi, it is enacted as a drama called “Ram Leela.” The plays are enacted continuously for a number of days and are culminated by the victory of Rama on the day of Dussehra.
Exorcism of Arms and Tools:
In other places, like Karnataka and Maharashtra, people worship weapons, tools, and vehicles to mark respect for the instruments that help them earn their livelihood. It is called Ayudha Puja.
Durga Puja in Bengal:
It marks the culmination of Durga Puja in West Bengal and other eastern states where huge, beautifully decked-up idols of Goddess Durga are immersed into the rivers and lakes. These mark that she has gone back to Mount Kailash after her visit to her earthly home.
Rituals Across India:
The way Dussehra is celebrated is different in all regions. In Mysuru of Karnataka, there are grand processions with decorated elephants, while it’s a vibrant festival in Kullu of Himachal Pradesh.
Mysuru Dasara:
Mysuru in Karnataka boasts of one of the most famous Dussehra celebrations in India. The grand royal procession, caparisoned elephants, horses, music, and dance performances reflect the tradition carried on from generation to generation of the Wodeyar dynasty.
Harvest Festival:
Dussehra is also a symbol for harvest in many other parts of India. This is also the time when the weather turns cool after the monsoon rains, so farmers pray for a good yield and thank nature for whatever food and fruits it has provided them with.
Cultural Unity:
Dussehra is a binding force in creating a sense of unity and shared heritage across the country as people from different religious and cultural backgrounds come together in the celebration. The festival reinforces beliefs that no matter how strong evil is perceived to be, good will always come out on top.