The auspicious festival of Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is approaching. This grand celebration marks the victory of good over evil and has deep historical and cultural significance. In this article, we will explore the date, history, puja muhurat, significance, and the various ways in which Dussehra is celebrated.Date of Dussehra 2023:Dussehra, also referred to as Vijayadashami, falls on the tenth day of Navratri. In 2023, it is scheduled to be celebrated on October 24th. This date is determined by the Hindu Luni-Solar Calendar and holds immense importance for devotees.History and Significance of Dussehra:Dussehra, celebrated during the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu lunar calendar, signifies the victory of good over evil. One of the most famous legends associated with this festival is the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. It is believed that Lord Rama defeated Ravana on this day after a fierce battle, bringing an end to the evil rule.Another legend associated with Dussehra is the victory of Maa Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. This battle extended over nine days during Navratri, and her triumph is celebrated on this auspicious day.Dussehra also marks the beginning of the Diwali festivities, which are celebrated twenty days later. Diwali is a festival of light and symbolizes the return of Lord Rama, Maa Sita, and Lord Lakshman to their homeland. Thus, Vijayadashmi preaches the values of the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness.On this day, people offer prayers for prosperity and good health. In some parts of the country, worshipping the Shami tree on Vijayadashami is considered significant. Legend has it that Arjuna concealed his weapons in the Shami tree during his exile.Dussehra Celebrations:Dussehra is celebrated with great enthusiasm in various parts of India, with each region having its unique traditions. Here are some common ways Dussehra is celebrated:Effigy Burning: In North India and other regions, effigies of the demon king Ravana, his brother Kumbhkaran, and his warrior son Meghnad are set ablaze. This symbolic act represents the victory of good over evil.Ramlila: Throughout the nine days of Navratri, Ramlila, an enactment of Lord Ramas life story, is performed. It reaches its climax on Dussehra when Ravana is slain.Getting Rid of Sins: Dussehra symbolizes the elimination of sins or bad qualities. The ten heads of Ravana are seen as a representation of these negative traits.In West Bengal, Dussehra is celebrated with the immersion of Maa Durga idols into water bodies, bidding her a grand farewell. Devotees express their wishes for her to return the following year to protect them from evils and miseries.As Dussehra 2023 approaches, it is a time for devotees to come together and celebrate the victory of good over evil and the triumph of light over darkness. It serves as a reminder of the timeless values of righteousness and the enduring power of good.
