Vijayadashami

What Is Vijayadashami?

Vijayadashami, widely recognised as Dussehra, is a prominent Hindu festival celebrated across India and by Hindu communities worldwide. While the term ‘Vijayasasami’ is not a standard spelling, this article pertains to Vijayadashami, which marks the culmination of the nine-night Navratri festival. It is a day that fundamentally symbolises the victory of righteousness over evil, drawing upon multiple narratives from Hindu mythology.

The festival observes two primary mythological events. In North India, it commemorates Lord Rama’s decisive victory over the demon king Ravana, marking the triumph of virtue and order. In the eastern and northeastern states of India, Vijayadashami, also known as Bijoya Dashami, signifies Goddess Durga’s ultimate triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolising the victory of divine feminine power against malevolent forces.

History and Origins of Vijayadashami

The origins of Vijayadashami are deeply rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures and traditions, with references found in epics like the Ramayana and texts such as the Devi Mahatmyam. The narrative of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana is central to the festival’s observance, particularly in northern India. According to the Ramayana, Rama performed a puja to Goddess Durga before his battle with Ravana, seeking her blessings for victory. On the tenth day, he triumphed, and this day became known as Vijayadashami, the “victorious tenth day.”

Concurrently, the festival holds immense significance for devotees of Goddess Durga, marking the culmination of Durga Puja, a major festival in Eastern India. Legend dictates that after nine nights of fierce battle, Goddess Durga slew the powerful demon Mahishasura on the tenth day. This event re-established cosmic order and is celebrated with immense fervour, signifying the eradication of evil and the restoration of dharma. The traditions surrounding Vijayadashami have evolved over centuries, blending regional customs with these foundational mythological narratives.

How Vijayadashami Is Celebrated

Vijayadashami is celebrated with diverse customs and traditions across different regions of India, reflecting the rich tapestry of Hindu culture. Common themes include the affirmation of justice, devotion to deities, and community gatherings.

North India

In North India, Vijayadashami is primarily known as Dussehra and is marked by grand Ramlila performances. These theatrical enactments depict the life story of Lord Rama, culminating in his battle with Ravana. On Vijayadashami itself, enormous effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and son Meghanada are erected in open fields and subsequently set ablaze. This act symbolises the destruction of evil and the triumph of righteousness. Fireworks often accompany the burning of these effigies, adding to the festive atmosphere.

East India

In Eastern India, particularly in West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha, Vijayadashami is known as Bijoya Dashami and serves as the culmination of the five-day Durga Puja festival. After days of elaborate worship, the clay idols of Goddess Durga and her children are immersed in rivers or other water bodies. Before immersion, married women participate in ‘Sindoor Khela’, where they smear vermilion on each other and the idols, wishing for marital bliss and longevity. People also exchange sweets and greetings, visiting friends and family to share blessings.

South India

In Southern India, Vijayadashami is often observed as part of the Navaratri festival with unique customs. ‘Ayudha Puja’ is a significant observance, where tools, vehicles, and instruments are worshipped, symbolising the role they play in a person’s livelihood. It is believed that on this day, the implements of work are blessed. Additionally, ‘Vidyarambham’, a ceremony for initiating children into formal education by writing their first alphabet, is widely practised, especially in Kerala, seeking blessings for knowledge and wisdom.

West India

In Western India, particularly Gujarat, the nine nights of Navratri preceding Vijayadashami are famous for ‘Garba’ and ‘Dandiya Raas’ dances. While the lively dances conclude on Navratri, Vijayadashami itself maintains the celebratory spirit. In Maharashtra, the day is considered auspicious for new beginnings, and people often exchange ‘Aaple Son’ (gold leaves from the Banyan tree) as a symbol of prosperity. The display of ‘Golu’ or ‘Bommai Kolu’ (doll arrangements) is also common in homes during Navratri, ending on Vijayadashami.

When Is Vijayadashami?

Vijayadashami is a moveable observance, determined by the lunisolar Hindu calendar. It falls on the tenth day of the Shukla Paksha (bright half) of the Hindu month of Ashvin. In the Gregorian calendar, this typically corresponds to a date in late September or October.

The precise date varies each year due to the lunar calculations. For example, it might fall in early October one year and late October or even early November in another, depending on the lunar cycle. The festival always follows the nine nights of Navratri, making it the tenth day of the overall festive period. While primarily observed as a cultural and religious holiday, it is a public holiday in many states across India.

Vijayadashami Key Facts