Vijaydashami/Dussehra

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Celebrating Dussehra or Vijayadasami: The Triumph of Good over Evil

Vijayadasami, also known as Dussehra, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated on the tenth day of Navratri. This year, Vijayadasami falls on October 12 (Saturday), 2024. Although the festival is celebrated differently across various regions of India, the underlying theme remains the same: the victory of good over evil.

Dussehra, one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrates the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, who abducted his wife, Sita. The name Dussehra comes from the Sanskrit words 'dasha' (ten) and 'hara' (defeat), symbolizing the defeat of the ten-headed Ravana. According to the Hindu calendar, Dussehra falls on the 10th day of Ashvina, which corresponds to September-October in the Gregorian calendar. In this article, discover the Dussehra 2024 date, muhurat timings, history, significance, celebrations, traditions, prayers, related festivals,

Vijayadasami/Dussehra 2024: Date and Significance

In 2024, Vijayadasami will be celebrated on October 12. The festival marks the end of the nine-day Navratri celebrations and is observed on the Dashami Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwina. It symbolizes the triumph of righteousness and the defeat of evil forces.

Dussehra/Vijaydashami 2024- Muhurat, Tithi, and Puja Timings

Vijay Muhurat - 02:23 PM to 03:10 PM - 12 October 2024, Sunday

Aparahna Puja Time - 01:36 PM to 03:56 PM - 13 October 2024, Saturday

Dashami Tithi Begins - 10:58 AM on Oct 12, 2024 – 12 October 2024, Sunday

Dashami Tithi Ends - 09:08 AM on Oct 13, 2024 - 13 October 2024, Saturday

Shravana Nakshatra Begins - 05:25 AM on Oct 12, 2024

Shravana Nakshatra Ends - 04:27 AM on Oct 13, 2024

Celebrations of Vijayadasami/Dussehra across India

Vijayadasami is celebrated with great enthusiasm and diverse traditions across India:

Northern India:

In states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Delhi, Dussehra is marked by the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnada, and Kumbhakarna, symbolizing the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. The Ram Leela, a dramatic reenactment of the Ramayana, is performed in many places.

In North India, the best places to observe Dussehra are:

Delhi
Haryana
Uttara Pradesh
Kullu

Southern India:

In Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, the festival vijayadasami signifies the end of the Golu display and the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Special prayers and processions are held to honor the goddess.

In South India, the best places to see Dussehra are:

Mysore
Tamil Nadu

Eastern India:

In West Bengal, Vijayadasami/ Dussehra marks the conclusion of Durga Puja. Idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in water bodies, accompanied by music and chants.

In East India, the best places to observe Dussehra are:

West Bengal
Bihar

Western India:

In West India, the best places to see Dussehra are:

Gujarat

In Maharashtra and Gujarat, the festival is celebrated with vibrant processions and cultural performances. People exchange leaves of the Shami tree as a symbol of goodwill.

Legends of Vijayadasami

Vijayadasami is associated with several legends:

Lord Rama's Victory:

The most popular legend is the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. This story is celebrated with the burning of Ravana's effigies, symbolizing the destruction of evil.

Goddess Durga's Triumph:

Another significant legend is the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. This story is particularly celebrated in the eastern and southern parts of India.

Rituals of Vijayadasami

The rituals of Vijayadasami vary across regions but commonly include:

Shami Puja:

Worship of the Shami tree, symbolizing the victory of the Pandavas in the Mahabharata.

Aparajita Puja:

Dedication to the goddess Aparajita, representing the undefeated spirit of good.

Seema Avalanghan:

A ritual of crossing boundaries, symbolizing overcoming limitations.

Burning of Effigies:

In northern India, effigies of Ravana, Meghnada, and Kumbhakarna are burnt to signify the victory of good over evil.

Things to Do on Vijayadasami

Participate in Rituals: Engage in traditional rituals and prayers to seek blessings.
Watch Ram Leela: Enjoy the dramatic performances of the Ramayana.
Exchange Shami Leaves: Share Shami leaves with friends and family as a token of goodwill.
Immerse Durga Idols: Participate in the immersion processions if you are in eastern India.
Worship of Weapons: Known as Shastra Pooja or Ayudha Pooja, this ritual honors the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon according to legends. After her triumph, the gods worshipped her powerful weapons. On Vijayadashami, people continue this tradition by worshipping their weapons and offering prayers to Goddess Durga, seeking her blessings for strength and protection.

Celebrate Navratri

Vijayadasami is a festival that brings people together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and rejoicing.

Looking for expert guidance on performing Vijayadasami rituals? Visit the Sulekha website or download the Sulekha NRI app and navigate to the Astro and Priest Services to connect with experienced astrologers and priests who can help you navigate this auspicious day with ease and devotion.