Dussehra / Vijayadashami
दशहरा / विजयादशमी
Marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, and of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura. Giant effigies of Ravana are burned, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Why We Celebrate
Dussehra (literally "ten-headed," referring to Ravana) or Vijayadashami ("Victorious Tenth Day") celebrates two parallel triumphs: Lord Rama's defeat of the ten-headed demon king Ravana after a long battle in Lanka, and Goddess Durga's slaying of the buffalo demon Mahishasura after nine nights of battle. It is considered one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar — ideal for beginning new ventures, learning, and initiating children into education (Vidyarambham).
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami (the tenth day of victory), celebrates two great triumphs: Lord Rama's victory over the ten-headed demon king Ravana, and Goddess Durga's victory over the buffalo-demon Mahishasura. After Ravana abducted Sita, Rama waged war against him for nine days, ultimately killing him on the tenth day with the help of Hanuman and his army. Durga fought Mahishasura for nine nights (Navratri) and emerged victorious on the tenth day.
The name "Dussehra" comes from "Dasha-Hara" meaning "removal of ten," referring to the ten heads of Ravana, which symbolize the ten vices: lust, anger, greed, attachment, ego, jealousy, selfishness, injustice, cruelty, and arrogance. The burning of Ravana effigies reminds us to burn away these inner demons. In many regions, people worship tools, weapons, books, and vehicles (Ayudha Puja or Shastra Puja), honoring the instruments of their livelihood.
Dussehra is a day of new beginnings — it is considered auspicious to start education (Vidyarambham in South India), buy vehicles, begin new ventures, or cross boundaries (Seema Langhan) as a symbol of victory. The exchange of Apta (Shami tree) leaves as gold symbolizes prosperity. The festival reminds us that with courage, devotion, and righteousness, we can overcome any evil or obstacle.
How It's Celebrated
Attend Ramleela performances and the burning of Ravana effigies in the evening
Worship weapons, tools, books, and instruments (Ayudha Puja / Shastra Puja)
Perform Saraswati Puja for education and learning
Cross the boundary of your village/city (Seema Langhan) as a symbol of victory
Collect and exchange Apta (Shami) leaves as a symbol of gold and prosperity
Visit elders and seek blessings for the coming year
Regional Variations
What You Need
- Shami or Apta leaves to exchange
- Books, tools, or instruments for Saraswati Puja
- Flowers, fruits, and incense for puja
- New clothes (considered auspicious to wear)
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Did You Know?
- ✦The tradition of burning Ravana effigies on Dussehra began in the 17th century — the effigies can be over 100 feet tall and are filled with firecrackers that explode spectacularly when ignited.
- ✦In Mysore (Mysuru), the royal Dussehra procession has been celebrated for over 400 years, with the Mysore Palace illuminated by 100,000 lights and a golden idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari carried on a decorated elephant.
- ✦Dussehra marks the day when Lord Rama worshipped Goddess Durga before going to war with Ravana — this is why both victories (Rama over Ravana and Durga over Mahishasura) are celebrated on the same day.
Related Festivals
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