Dussehra

What Is Dussehra?

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a significant Hindu observance celebrated across India and by Hindu communities globally. It signifies the triumph of righteousness and good over malevolence and evil. The term “Dussehra” is derived from Sanskrit, where “dasa” means ten and “hara” means defeat, referring to the defeat of the ten-headed demon king Ravana. “Vijayadashami” translates to “Victory on the Tenth Day”.

This observance takes place on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, marking the culmination of the nine-night Navaratri festival. It commemorates two primary cultural narratives: Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, and Goddess Durga’s vanquishing of the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Dussehra therefore embodies themes of courage, devotion, and the cyclical nature of destruction and creation for the purpose of maintaining order.

History and Origins of Dussehra

The origins of Dussehra are deeply rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures and traditions, primarily drawing from two epic narratives. The first, recounted in the Ramayana, describes the epic battle between Lord Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu, and the powerful ten-headed demon king Ravana, who had abducted Rama’s wife, Sita. Rama’s eventual victory on the tenth day symbolises the conquest of arrogance and unrighteousness.

The second foundational story, prevalent in the Shakta tradition, focuses on the goddess Durga. After nine days and nights of intense battle, Goddess Durga slew the formidable buffalo demon Mahishasura, who had terrorised the heavens and earth. This victory, celebrated on Vijayadashami, underscores the power of the divine feminine (Shakti) to overcome evil and restore harmony.

Historically, Dussehra also held significance as a celebration following the autumn harvest, an occasion for warriors to worship their weapons (Ayudha Puja), and a time for kings to embark on new ventures. The observance reflects an amalgamation of mythological narratives, agricultural cycles, and martial traditions that have evolved over millennia. It serves as a precursor to Diwali, the festival of lights, which is celebrated twenty days later.

How Dussehra Is Celebrated

Dussehra celebrations are diverse, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of India and the different interpretations of its founding narratives. Despite regional variations, the core theme of the triumph of good over evil remains consistent.

Celebrations in North India

In North India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Punjab, Dussehra is most prominently associated with the Ram Leela. This theatrical rendition of the Ramayana depicts the life of Lord Rama, culminating in his battle with Ravana. On Dussehra day, large effigies of Ravana, his brother Meghnad, and son Indrajit, often filled with fireworks, are set ablaze in open grounds. This dramatic act symbolises the destruction of evil and is witnessed by thousands of spectators, accompanied by fairs and festive gatherings.

Celebrations in East India

In states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Dussehra is known as Vijayadashami and marks the final day of the grand Durga Puja. This festival is a major event, celebrating Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. On Vijayadashami, after nine days of worship and elaborate rituals, clay idols of Goddess Durga are ceremoniously immersed in rivers or other bodies of water. This immersion, known as ‘Visarjan’, signifies her return to her abode and the cyclical nature of creation and dissolution. Women also perform ‘Sindoor Khela’, smearing vermillion on each other and on the goddess, wishing for prosperity and marital bliss.

Celebrations in South India

Southern states, including Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, observe Dussehra with unique traditions. In Karnataka, the Mysore Dasara is particularly famous, featuring a grand procession (Jamboo Savari) of decorated elephants carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, who also vanquished a demon (Mahishasura). Ayudha Puja is a widespread practice, where tools, vehicles, and instruments are worshipped, symbolising the reverence for one’s livelihood and profession. Saraswati Puja, honouring the goddess of knowledge, is also performed, particularly by students and artists.

Celebrations in West India

In Western India, especially Gujarat and Maharashtra, Dussehra follows the nine nights of Navaratri, which are marked by vibrant Garba and Dandiya Raas dances performed with great fervour. While the burning of Ravana effigies is less common, the day is often celebrated by exchanging ‘Apta’ leaves (Bauhinia racemosa), which are considered symbolic of gold, as a gesture of good wishes. The worship of arms and tools, known as Ayudha Puja, also takes place, reinforcing the significance of professional skills and instruments.

When Is Dussehra?

Dussehra is a moveable observance, as its date is determined by the Hindu lunisolar calendar, specifically the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Ashwin. It falls on the tenth day (Dashami) of this period, following the nine days of Navaratri.

In the Gregorian calendar, Dussehra typically occurs in either September or October. Due to the variations between the lunisolar and Gregorian calendars, the exact date shifts each year. The observance universally takes place after the monsoons, often coinciding with the beginning of the autumn season in the Indian subcontinent.

Dussehra Key Facts