India is a land full of diversity where every festival holds deep cultural and spiritual significance. Among these festivals is Dussehra or Vijayadashami, celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. This festival is not only a religious celebration but also conveys the message to society that ultimately, truth and righteousness always triumph, no matter how powerful evil may seem.
Why is Dussehra Celebrated?
The festival of Dussehra is observed every year on the Dashami Tithi (10th day) of the Shukla Paksha of the Ashwin month in the Hindu calendar. According to religious beliefs, on this day Lord Shri Ram killed the demon king Ravana of Lanka, achieving the victory of truth over falsehood.
Before killing Ravana, Lord Shri Ram worshipped Goddess Durga for nine days and then attained victory on the tenth day. Therefore, this day is also known as Vijayadashami (Day of Victory).
When will Dussehra (Vijayadashami) be celebrated in 2025?
Every year, Dussehra falls on the Dashami Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the Ashwin month as per the Hindu calendar. In 2025, according to various Panchangs and news sources, Vijayadashami (Dussehra) will be celebrated on 2nd October 2025.
Connection between Vijayadashami and Goddess Durga
Dussehra is not limited only to the story of Lord Ram and Ravana but is also linked to the victory of Goddess Durga.
According to another belief, the demon Mahishasura was granted a boon that no man or god could defeat him. To end his tyranny, the combined powers of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahadev created Goddess Durga. She fought with Mahishasura for nine days during Navratri and killed him on the tenth day.
Thus, Dussehra is also considered a symbol of feminine power and the divine glory of Goddess Durga.
Historical and Mythological Importance
- Relation to the Ramayana – On this day, Lord Ram freed his wife Sita from Ravana’s captivity.
- Relation to the Mahabharata – On this day, Arjuna retrieved his weapons hidden in the Shami tree and used them in battle, hence the day is considered auspicious.
- Relation to Devi Mahatmya – The day is also celebrated as the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura.
Rituals of Dussehra Puja
The rituals of worship on Dussehra hold great significance:
- Wake up early, bathe, and wear clean clothes.
- Make an idol of Dussehra with wheat or lime.
- Prepare 9 balls and 2 bowls of cow dung, one containing coins and the other with roli, rice, and fruits.
- Offer bananas, barley, jaggery, and radish to the idol.
- Worship books and weapons to sanctify them.
- Feed the poor and after Ravana Dahan, distribute Shami tree leaves as tokens of blessings.
- Seek blessings from elders in the family.
Remedies to Perform on Dussehra
- Offer a broom in a temple to please Goddess Lakshmi.
- Light a lamp under a Shami tree.
- Recite the Sundarkand from Ramcharitmanas.
- Chant the mantra “Om Vijayaya Namah” and offer 10 fruits.
- Sight the Neelkanth bird, considered highly auspicious on this day.
- Wrap a coconut in yellow cloth and donate it along with sweets in a temple.
- To prevent business losses, feed dogs gram flour laddus for 43 days starting from Dussehra.
Celebrations of Dussehra Across India
- North India – Ramleela is performed, and effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna are burnt.
- West Bengal – Dussehra is celebrated as Durga Visarjan; idols of Goddess Durga are immersed with the chant, “Come again next year, Mother.”
- Maharashtra – People worship the Shami tree and exchange its leaves as symbolic “gold.”
- Mysore (Karnataka) – Dussehra is celebrated with grandeur; Mysore Palace is illuminated, and grand processions are organized.
- Andhra Pradesh and Telangana – Celebrated as Bathukamma Festival, a floral festival honoring Goddess.
Social and Cultural Significance
Dussehra teaches us that no matter how powerful evil may seem, good always prevails.
- It symbolizes the triumph of justice and dharma.
- It spreads the message of truth, courage, and morality in society.
- It is a festival that strengthens family and community bonds.
Astrological Significance
Vijayadashami is considered the most auspicious day of the year, also known as the Aparajita Muhurat.
- Any work begun on this day is believed to be successful.
- It is the best day for starting a new business, housewarming, buying vehicles, or beginning education.
Dussehra in Modern Times
In today’s times, Dussehra is not just limited to religious beliefs but has also become a festival of cultural unity. Large-scale Ramleela performances, fairs, and community gatherings are organized. Families and communities come together to celebrate.
This festival reminds us to burn the inner evils within ourselves such as anger, ego, jealousy, and greed, for only then can we achieve true victory in life.
Dussehra is not just a festival but an inspiration for the soul. It teaches us that no matter how deep the darkness, the light of truth and righteousness will ultimately win.
Thus, Dussehra is not merely about burning the effigy of Ravana but conveys the eternal message of the victory of truth, dharma, and goodness.