Dussehra, renowned as Vijyadashami, stands as one of the most remarkable and colorful celebrations in India’s Hindu calendar. This festival, which marks the culmination of the nine-day Navratri festival, is set to grace us on the 24th of October in 2023. Join us as we delve into the heart of this festival, exploring its historical importance and the rich customs that have woven it into the tapestry of Indian culture.
Dussehra 2023 is all set to be celebrated with a myriad of rituals and festivities. The auspicious Vijaya Muhurat for puja commences at 1:58 pm and concludes at 2:43 pm. The afternoon puja window extends from 1:13 pm to 3:28 pm. The Dashmi Tithi, a significant date in the Hindu lunar calendar, begins on the 23rd of October at 5:44 pm and draws to a close on the 24th of October at 3:14 pm. The Shravana Nakshatra, another celestial component, graces the skies from 6:44 pm on the 22nd of October to 5:14 pm on the 23rd of October.
Dussehra, the tenth and final day of the Navratri festival, serves as a culmination of devotion to various incarnations of Goddess Durga. It is a day laden with symbolism, often referred to as Vijyadashami, symbolizing victory. Diverse regions across India tie Dussehra to distinct legends, such as Goddess Durga’s triumph over the demon Mahishasura or the epic Ramayana battle.
Dussehra is intrinsically connected to two enduring legends:
According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama, accompanied by his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, waged a relentless war against Ravana, the demon King of Lanka, who had abducted Sita. After nine days of devout prayers to Goddess Durga, Rama emerged victorious, signifying the ultimate triumph of good over evil.
Another legend hails the valor of Goddess Durga as she vanquished Mahishasura, a formidable demon. Dussehra commemorates the day of her monumental victory, reinforcing the age-old theme of righteousness prevailing over malevolence.
Dussehra is an occasion of merriment intertwined with diverse rituals observed throughout India. It signifies the victory of virtue over vice and sets the stage for the upcoming Diwali festival. Common customs include:
- Colorful processions featuring idols and cultural performances.
- The ritual burning of effigies of Ravana, symbolizing the defeat of evil.
- Elaborate reenactments of Lord Rama’s life, with a particular focus on his victory over Ravana.
- The worship of weapons, emphasizing their role in safeguarding dharma, or righteousness.
Dussehra serves as a precursor to Diwali, a festival that arrives 20 days later. Diwali commemorates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. The overarching message of Dussehra is one of hope, as it reminds us that goodness prevails over malevolence, and it is a time to pray for prosperity and well-being.