Amidst the rich cultural legacy of India, Dussehra holds a special place as a vibrant festival that brings people together. From children delighting in the burning of effigies to grand re-enactments of the Ramayana that pay respect to the country’s ancient mythologies. This joyous occasion is marked with the epic victory of good over evil that continues to inspire generations. Beyond its historical significance that celebrates the defeat of Ravana, the festival echoes the promise of courage and hope. It is a cultural extravaganza that upholds the timeless virtues of ancient heroes, offering a glimpse into the nation’s diverse practices of devotion.
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is observed at the end of Navratri, which falls on different dates every year. In 2024, Dussehra falls on the 10th day of the Hindu calendar’s month of Kartik. This year the annual festival will be held on the Saturday, 12th of October.
Puja Calendar
On the day of Dussehra, Shami Puja, Aparajita Puja and Seema Avalanghan are some of the rituals that are carried out to celebrate the holy festival. According to the Hindu division of the day, these rituals are to be performed during Aparahna time.
Time
The auspicious time or “muhurat” of Vijayadashami is from 02:03 PM to 02:49 PM. Hence, the auspicious time will last for about 46 minutes.
For the Aparahna Puja, the muhurat is from 01:17 PM to 03:35 PM. It will last for a duration of 2 hours and 19 minutes.
Why do we celebrate Dussehra?
On this day, in Hindu mythology, Lord Rama had defeated Ravana. Moreover, this day also marks the victory of Goddess Durga against the demon Mahishasur, which is celebrated at the end of Navratri. Due to these historical reasons, Lord Rama is worshipped at some places during Dussehra, while at other places Goddess Durga is worshipped during this holy time. As per the Hindu calendar, Dussehra, or Vijyadashami, falls on the tenth day of the month of Ashwin, or Kartik.
Festivities and Traditions
Every region in India celebrates Dussehra with its own unique style. Let us look at a few common themes of drama and devotion.
Ramlila Performances: In most parts of India, especially in the northern regions, Ramlila plays are very popular. These dramatizations retell the epic story of Rama defeating Ravana. In Hindu culture, this is the ultimate depiction of the victory of good over evil. Up to the ten days leading to Dussehra, these Ramlila plays are performed. The plays are larger than life, with the added effects of dance and music. This tradition helps to revive the spirit of ancient Hindu mythologies amidst the newer generations.
Effigy Burning: The most cherished event of Dussehra is the burning of effigies to mark the victory of Lord Rama. Ravana, Meghnath (his son), and Kumbhkaran (his brother) are burned mostly at the end of the Ramlila plays. These effigies, made of paper and filled with fireworks, are set ablaze in large open spaces. The fireworks against the night’s darkness symbolize the ultimate triumph of good over evil.
Community Feasts and Gatherings: India is known for its vibrant culture of festivals as well as their love for food. Dussehra is the perfect merging of the two. An elaborate menu of traditional sweets and feasts, along with festive meals, is a common practice. Additionally, special prayers and rituals are performed in temples and homes, worshipping gods and deities.
New Beginnings: As soon as people watch the burning of the effigies of the evil characters. It symbolizes a new beginning towards prosperity. Dussehra is considered an auspicious time for starting new ventures. Many people choose to inaugurate new projects, buy new property or vehicles, and make significant changes in their personal lives on this day.
Dussehra 2024
Hence, on 12th October, the extravagant spectacle of Dussehra 2024 will unfold across India. The auspicious time will illuminate the skies and hearts alike, marking the victory of good over evil. As the flames of Ravana’s effigies burn, they shed light on the festival’s deeper essence of courage, hope, and the enduring spirit of ancient heroes. Every corner of the nation will be woven together with the threads of festive rituals and dramatic storytelling.
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