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The Dussehra festival marks the end of Navratri (nine days) and concludes with Vijayadashami. This year, this festival will be celebrated on 24 October 2023. As per the Hindu calendar, the festival of Dussehra is observed in the month of Ashvin. As is well known, Lord Rama engaged in combat with the demon king Ravana in Lanka and ultimately defeated him. Therefore, Dussehra or Vijayadashami is celebrated.
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What Happens on Dussehra?
On the occasion of Dussehra, a number of rituals like “Shami puja,” “Aparajita puja,” and “Seema avalanghan” are done. In several locations around India, effigies of Ravana are burned alongside pyrotechnics to symbolise the triumph or annihilation of evil.
Also Read: Dussehra Mela 2023: Activities in Mela
Dussehra 2023: History
This festival has a number of mythological origin myths. In some parts of India, this day commemorates the day that Goddess Durga slew the monster Mahishasur. For this reason, during Navaratri, adoration is offered to all nine manifestations of Goddess Durga. Additionally, it is stated that when Goddess Durga upholds Dharma, she leaves the material realm while being submerged in water alongside her worshippers.
In South Mysore and Karnataka, it is believed that the Chamundeshwari, another avatar of Goddess Durga killed the demon Mahishasur. During this festival, parades of elephants take place that carry processions of Goddess Chamundeshwari were also carried throughout the city.
While in the North, the Dussehra festival commemorates the day that Lord Rama slew Ravana in Lanka. Hindu mythology claims that Ravana abducted Sita, the wife of Lord Rama. Ravana also received a blessing from Lord Brahma for his invincibility. As the seventh manifestation of Lord Vishnu, Lord Rama was able to kill Ravana by shooting an arrow into his stomach during the conflict.
Due to this, the Dussehra holiday is regarded as a celebration of the triumph of good over evil.
Importance of Dussehra
The festival of Dussehra celebrates the victory of good over evil. It holds significant cultural, religious, and historical importance. Truth and righteousness always triumph, no matter what dark forces try to drive you. Dussehra is a time for devout Hindus to worship deities and seek blessings. Many people visit temples and participate in religious rituals to honour Lord Rama and his divine victory.
Also Read: Dussehra Celebrations 2023
How to Celebrate Dussehra 2023?
One can celebrate the festival of Dussehra then you can do so by following this. On this day, the god idols are submerged in water on Dussehra, which is celebrated with a large parade. The married women engage in a game of “Sindoor-Khela” as they kiss each other on the cheek. It is a sign of prosperity and a long marriage. After offering sweets and sindoor to the idol of Devi Durga, this ceremony is performed.
FAQs
On the tenth day (Dussehra), joyous processions carry the special Durga images honouring her victory over the buffalo-headed demon Mahishasura into surrounding rivers or reservoirs where they are immersed in water.
Dussehra holidays will start from 14th October and will continue till 25th.
Dussehra is observed on the 10th day of Navratri and marks the end of the nine-day festival honouring all incarnations of Goddess Durga.
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