Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most important Hindu festivals, marking the end of the ten-day Navratri festival. It signifies the victory of "Good over Evil" and the restoration of Dharma.
The Dual Legends
Dussehra celebrates two major victories in Hindu mythology:
- Rama's Victory: The day Lord Rama killed the ten-headed demon king Ravana in Lanka to rescue his wife Sita. The name "Dussehra" comes from Dashahara, meaning the removal of the ten heads (of ego and evil).
- Durga's Victory: The day Goddess Durga defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura after a fierce battle that lasted ten days.
Key Rituals
- Ravan Dahan: In North India, massive effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghanada are burnt in public grounds amidst fireworks.
- Ayudha Puja: Worshipping the tools of one's trade—whether they are weapons, vehicles, books, or computers—acknowledging the divine energy in the instruments that provide our livelihood.
- Shami Puja: Worshipping the Shami tree (Jammi Chettu). Legend says the Pandavas hid their weapons in this tree during their exile. People exchange Shami leaves as a symbol of gold and mutual respect.
- Saraswati Puja: In the South, books are placed before the Goddess for blessings on the morning of Vijayadashami.
Cultural Celebrations
- Mysuru Dasara: Famous for its grand elephant procession and the lighting of the Mysuru Palace.
- Kullu Dussehra: Known for its unique week-long festival involving local deities in Himachal Pradesh.
- Bommala Koluvu: The tradition of arranging dolls in a staircase pattern, common in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.