Dussehra: the victory of good
Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami, falls on the tenth lunar day of the bright half of Ashwin, the day after Navratri ends. It celebrates the victory of good over evil.
The stories behind it
In much of North India, Dussehra marks Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. Weeks of Ramlila performances end with effigies of Ravana, Meghnad and Kumbhakarna being burnt at dusk.
Elsewhere the day remembers Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. In Bengal it is Bijoya Dashami, when Durga Puja ends with the immersion of the images and people visit one another with sweets and greetings.
When it falls
Tradition keeps Vijayadashami on the day when Dashami prevails in the afternoon (aparahna). The Vijay Muhurta in that afternoon is considered especially auspicious.
How it is kept
- Shami and Aparajita puja The shami tree and Goddess Aparajita are worshipped; shami leaves are exchanged as “gold” in Maharashtra.
- Ayudha Puja In South India, tools, books and vehicles are honoured around Navami and Dashami.
- New beginnings The day is considered good for starting learning (Vidyarambham in Kerala), new work or a purchase.
Mysuru’s Dasara procession and Kullu’s week-long Dussehra fair are among the best-known regional celebrations.