Happy Dussehra: Also known as Vijaya Dashami, Dussehra is celebrated with great fervour across all states of India. While the festival is usually celebrated on the last day of Durga Puja and Navratri, there are speculations about the exact date of Dussehra celebrations.
Dussehra commemorates the triumph of good over evil—specifically, Maa Durga's victory over Mahishasura and Lord Rama's defeat of Ravana.
This year, the Dashami tithi is spanning over two days, from October 12, to October 13. Here are the specific timings for you to avoid any confusion regarding the festivities.
Vijay muhurat - 2:03 pm to 2:49 pm
Dashami tithi begins - 10:58 am on October 12
Dashami tithi ends - 9:08 am on October 13
Shravana nakshatra begins - 5:25 am on October 12
Shravana nakshatra ends - 4:27 am on October 13
Dussehra precedes the highly revered 'Festival of Lights', Diwali. Dussehra holds significant importance in Hindu culture, reinforcing the timeless message that, despite the might of evil, righteousness ultimately prevails.
According to Hindu mythology, Ravana, the king of Lanka, kidnapped Sita, Lord Rama's wife, during their 14-year exile. With the help of Lakshmana, Hanuman, and the Vanar Sena, Lord Rama fought valiantly to rescue her. On the tenth day, Rama succeeded in defeating Ravana, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
In many regions, effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakaran, and Meghnath are burned as part of the celebrations.
Maa Durga's triumph over Mahishasura is also honoured during Vijayadashmi. In Bengal, the occasion is celebrated with Sindoor Khela and Dhunuchi dance, as well as vibrant processions for the immersion of Durga idols (Durga Visarjan), marking the goddess's return to her heavenly home.
Durga Puja began on October 8, with Friday marking Ashtami. Meanwhile, Navratri began on October 3. Both the festivals will culminate on October 13, with the immersion of idols of Goddess Durga.
