Dussehra 2024: Festival of Victory, Goodness, and Triumph

Dussehra, celebrated annually as a symbol of the victory of good over evil, honors Lord Ram’s triumph over the demon king Ravana. This year, Dussehra will be celebrated on October 12, 2024, marking the culmination of the nine-day Navratri festival. The festivities feature the burning of Ravana effigies, vibrant processions, and cultural performances, reminding us to uphold truth, righteousness, and moral strength in our lives.

Why is Dussehra Celebrated?

Dussehra holds religious and historical significance, primarily commemorating the victory of Lord Ram over Ravana. As per the ancient epic Ramayana, Ravana had abducted Sita, leading to a fierce battle in which Lord Ram, with the help of Hanuman and his army, defeated Ravana. This day is a celebration of truth and justice triumphing over falsehood and injustice.

Additionally, Dussehra marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the end of evil forces. The festival carries a dual meaning, celebrating both the valor of Lord Ram and the divine strength of Goddess Durga.

Major Highlights of Dussehra:

Effigy Burning:

Ravana’s effigies are burned in large fields, symbolizing the destruction of evil forces.

Ram Leela Performances:

In northern India, Ram Leela performances depict Lord Ram’s life story, culminating in the defeat of Ravana on Dussehra.
Durga Puja Immersion: In eastern India, Dussehra coincides with the immersion of Goddess Durga idols after the grand Durga Puja festival.

Ayudha Puja:

In the southern states, weapons and tools are worshipped to honor the victory of good over evil.
Victory Parades: Many cities host victory parades where large effigies of Ravana are carried through the streets.

How is Dussehra Celebrated?

Dussehra is a widely celebrated festival across India, though the mode of celebration may differ from one region to another. Here’s how various regions observe Dussehra:

Gujarat :

In Gujarat, Dussehra marks the culmination of the vibrant Navratri festival, with grand Garba and Dandiya Raas performances throughout the nine days. On the tenth day, Dussehra, effigies of Ravana are burned to symbolize the victory of good over evil. The celebrations also include the immersion of Durga idols in rivers and lakes, signifying the goddess’s return to her heavenly abode, accompanied by prayers, music, and large processions filled with joy and devotion.

North India:

In cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Lucknow, Ram Leela is performed with immense zeal, culminating in the burning of Ravana’s effigies.

West Bengal:

Dussehra marks the end of Durga Puja, with grand processions leading to the immersion of Durga idols in rivers and lakes.

Mysuru, Karnataka:

The Mysuru Dussehra is famous for its grand procession featuring caparisoned elephants, cultural performances, and traditional rituals.

Maharashtra:

Dussehra is celebrated with the exchange of ‘apta’ leaves symbolizing prosperity, and performances of Ram Leela.

Tamil Nadu:

Families arrange ‘Golu’ (doll displays) and conduct special pujas to celebrate the triumph of good over evil.

Dussehra’s Worldwide Celebrations

Beyond India, Dussehra is celebrated by Indian communities around the world. In Nepal, the festival is known as ‘Dashain’ and is a major holiday where Goddess Durga’s victory is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Indian diaspora communities in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia also organize Dussehra festivals, including Ram Leela performances and cultural events.

Let’s celebrate Dussehra 2024 by spreading joy, wisdom, and positivity. Share blessings and wishes with your loved ones through Badhaai Do, and may the festival of Dussehra bring happiness, success, and peace to all.