It’s that time of the year when the country awaits the celebrations of Dussehra. Now it’s time to celebrate this Hindu festival with great enthusiasm and excitement. It’s the celebration of the power of good over evil. It’s also the time to say our goodbyes to Maa Durga. This year Dussehra or Vijayadashami 2022 will be celebrated on the 5th of October. Dussehra marks the end of a festival that is nine-day long called Navaratri. Dussehra also marks the preparations for Diwali.
The Legend Of Durga Puja Or Vijayadashmi
Dussehra is known by various names across India; Durga Puja or Vijayadashami in the northeast and East, Dussehra in the Northern and Western states. But, the significance of the festival is the same i.e. the Dharma (the good) always prevailing over Adharma (the evil). Durga Puja or Vijayadashmi celebrates and signifies Maa Durga’s victory over Mahishasura to preserve dharma.
The story behind Dussehra exhibits Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana. The day also notes the end of Ram Lila. On the day of Dussehra, tall mannequins of Ravana, Kumbhakaran and Meghnad are burnt with fireworks and remind us that no matter what, Good always has power over Evil and wins in the end. On the same day, Arjuna destroyed the clan of Kuru, comprising great warriors.
The Significance Of Observing Vijayadashami
Apart from the mythological significance, it also instills a sense of power in the women as Maa Durga is portrayed as an avenger by defeating evil and showing that evil will never stand victorious against good.
Women of our country look up to her and draw inspiration from her to gain strength and courage and stand up for themselves. The legends of Maa Durga have been told to children during this time of the year, again and again, to keep them connected to their culture, religion, and mythology.
Also Read- The Most Interesting Facts about Ravana Which You Might Not Know
Celebration Of Dussehra In India
Dussehra or Vijayadashami is celebrated all over the country with fanfare and people are full of religious zeal.
In North India, Ramleela is organized by the local people, this is an enactment of the life story of Lord Ram. The enactment lasts up to nine days and ends on the tenth day, that is Vijayadashami. Effigies of Ravan, sometimes along with his son Meghnad and brother Kumbhakarn, are set ablaze to celebrate Lord Rama’s victory.
In Kolkata and other eastern parts, People celebrate Dussehra as a festival that marks the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasur. And Maa Durga is worshipped in various theme-based pandals.
In the west, such as Gujarat, people celebrate these nine days and Dussehra through Garba and dandiya nights, which is the folk dance of this state. People wear colorful clothes and enjoy these days to the fullest.
In the Southern part of India, people celebrate by bringing home the idols of Goddess Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. Married women visit each other’s houses and exchange gifts.
Also Read- What Is Dussehra And Why Is It Celebrated – Know When Is Dussehra, Puja, And Ravan Dahan Time
Final words
The day of Vijayadashami brings joy and hope to people all over the country. We remember the Gods and Goddesses and learn from these legends as these help us become better in life.