Dussehra (Vijayadashami) 2024

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival celebrated at the end of Navaratri. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The festival usually falls in the month of Ashwin (September–October), according to the Hindu calendar. It commemorates two significant events in #Hindu mythology:

  1. Victory of Lord Rama: Dussehra marks #Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good (dharma) over evil (adharma). In many parts of India, particularly in North India, this is celebrated with dramatic enactments of the #Ramayana called #"Ramlila," and large effigies of # Ravana are burned to signify the destruction of evil.

  2. Victory of Goddess Durga: In some parts of India, especially in Bengal and Eastern states, Dussehra celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon #Mahishasura. This represents the power of the divine feminine and is part of the culmination of the Durga Puja festival.

Regional Variations:

    • North India: Ramlila performances and Ravana effigy burning are common.
    • West Bengal: Durga Puja celebrations end on Vijayadashami with the immersion of Durga idols in rivers.
    • Mysore (Karnataka): Famous for its grand royal processions and cultural events.
    • Maharashtra: People celebrate by exchanging leaves of the Shami tree #(Apta) as a symbol of gold and prosperity. People also worship their tools and vehicles.

The festival emphasizes values like righteousness, bravery, and devotion, marking an auspicious time for new beginnings and ventures. 

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