Dussehra: Why This Festival Is Important for Indians?
Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami, is among the biggest and most widely celebrated festivals in India. It honors the triumph of good over evil, and for Hindus, it holds deep spiritual and cultural importance. If you plan to visit India during this auspicious festival, you can do so by applying for the Indian eVisa right from your home.
Celebrated on the 10th day of the Hindu month Ashvin (September-October), this festival comes after the nine-day Navratri, which is a period dedicated to worshiping the divine feminine energy (Shakti). As Dussehra falls on the 10th day, it is called Vijayadashami, meaning "the tenth day of victory". This year (2024), Dussehra will be celebrated on October 12.
Mythological Origins of Dussehra
Dussehra's roots lie in two major mythological events, both depicting the victory of good forces over evil powers.
Ramayana
One of the major legends is the epic tale from the Ramayana, where Lord Rama conquers Ravana, the demon king.
In the legend, Ravana, a symbol of pride and arrogance, abducted Lord Rama's wife, Sita. After a fierce battle between Ravana and Lord Rama, where Rama was helped by his brother Lakshmana and his devoted follower Hanuman, Lord Rama defeated Ravana. This victory was a symbol of righteousness, courage, and dharma (duty). This day has since been celebrated as Dussehra.
On Dussehra, this victory of good against evil is celebrated by burning the effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkaran, and his son Meghnad in many parts of the country, especially in North India. It's a symbolic act where the destruction of these effigies reminds us of the importance of defeating the inner evils such as greed, ego, and hatred.
The Legend of Goddess Durga
The other significant story linked to Dussehra comes from the legend of Goddess Durga.
In Hindu mythology, the Goddess Durga fought a battle of nine days against the buffalo demon Mahishasura, who had terrorized heaven and earth.
On the tenth day, Goddess Durga killed Mahishasura and won the battle. This restored the peace and righteousness on Earth. This victory is celebrated as Durga Puja in West Bengal and many parts of India.
Cultural Significance Across India
The diversity of Indian culture means that Dussehra is celebrated differently across regions.
North India
In North India, the festival is celebrated with the performance of Ramleela, which is a theatrical re-enactment of the Ramayana. At the end of Ramleela, the effigies are burned to show Ravana's defeat. In Delhi and other northern cities, this last act of lighting the effigies on fire is followed by fireworks, and fairs and cultural events are arranged that attract large audiences.
West Bengal
Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami in West Bengal, signifies the end of Durga Puja. Worshippers participate in five days of lavish celebrations, and then on Vijayadashami they say goodbye to their beloved goddess with processions and submerging her idols in rivers or seas. It is believed that the goddess goes back to her heavenly abode to return next year. This is reflected in this powerful moment where devotees chant prayers and songs.
Southern Parts of India
Mysore, Karnataka
In the southern part of India, especially in Mysore, Karnataka, Dussehra is celebrated with a royal splendor that dates back centuries. The Mysuru Dasara is known for its grand processions, elephant parades, and the worship of the goddess Chamundeshwari, an incarnation of Durga who defeated Mahishasura, the demon the city is named after. Visitors from all over the nation come to see the city filled with lights and many cultural events.
Tamil Nadu and Kerala
In Tamil Nadu and Kerala, this day is celebrated as Ayudha Puja. During this festival, people worship tools, weapons, vehicles, and machinery, showing their gratitude for their livelihood. This day is dedicated to honoring the importance of knowledge and skills, with children introduced to education in a ritual called Vidyarambham.
Spiritual Teachings and Modern Relevance
At its core, Dussehra is about the triumph of good over evil. It serves as a reminder for people to conquer their inner demons-be it anger, jealousy, ego, or deceit. Each of the 10 heads of Ravana is often interpreted as representing negative human characteristics, like lust, greed, and pride. The burning of Ravana's effigy is both a spectacle and a symbolic act of destroying these negative traits.
Even in the present day and age, the teachings of this Dussehra are valid. There are many societal challenges like corruption, inequality, and much more that people all over the planet are facing. In such a scenario, the message of Dussehra encourages people to stand up for justice, truth, and moral values.
This festival is a reminder that if we stand together, we can overcome even the biggest problems in our lives, just like Lord Rama did with the help of Hanuman, his brother, and his army monkeys.
Also, Dussehra is seen as an auspicious time to begin new things. All India people choose to start new ventures, make new decisions, or even buy property or vehicles. It is a day of reflection, where people rethink their life choices, renew their faith, and make resolutions to live better, more ethical lives.
Dussehra's Role in Promoting Social Unity
Dussehra also promotes togetherness and community spirit. The festive atmosphere brings people from various backgrounds together to celebrate and participate in cultural activities. Families and friends come together, exchange sweets, and attend local fairs, which strengthens social bonds.
Nowadays, the world is in a rush and people often get disconnected from family and society. Festivals like Dussehra play a huge role in rekindling these relationships.
Rituals and Celebrations in 2024
In 2024, Dussehra will be celebrated on October 12. The day will be all about traditional rituals, prayers, and celebrations. On this day, people start their morning by cleaning their homes and preparing for the day's events. In many regions, a hawan (a fire ritual) is performed to get the blessings of the gods, especially Lord Rama and Goddess Durga. In addition to prayers for prosperity, health, and happiness, sweets and flowers are offered.
In places like Mysore, the famous procession with decorated elephants and cultural performances will be a key attraction. In West Bengal, devotees will gather for the grand Durga idol immersion, and in cities across North India, the Ramleela performances will reach their conclusion with Ravana's effigies going up in flames.
For those who follow astrology, the Vijay Muhurta for Dussehra in 2024 is between 2:05 PM and 2:52 PM, making this period especially auspicious for conducting any important rituals or new ventures.
Ready to Celebrate Dussehra in India?
Dussehra is not just a celebration of mythological victories; it is a festival that encourages self-analysis, moral growth, and social unity. It is a reminder that good, though sometimes tested, will always prevail. The stories of the victories of Lord Rama and Goddess Durga still inspire millions of Indians to be just, courageous, and ethical in their lives.
You can apply for the Indian eVisa for a spiritual escape, the whole process is online, and you receive your eVisa via your email address. You can check your eligibility on an Indian eVisa website. If you have more concerns, visit the Indian Visa Helpdesk.
Indian Immigration allows visit to India by applying for Indian Visa online for several purposes. Indian Tourist Visa Online can be utilised for meeting friends, meeting relatives in India, attending courses like Yoga, or for sight-seeing and tourism. If your intention for travelling to India relates to a commercial or business purpose, then you are eligible to apply for Indian Business Visa Online. If you are planning to go to India as a medical visitor for medical reason, consulting doctor or for surgery or for your health, then Indian Medical Visa Online is available for your needs.