Vijayathasami & Kethara Gowri Viratham Starts 12-Oct-2024

Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is a Hindu festival celebrated at the end of the Navratri festival. It typically falls in the month of September or October, depending on the lunar calendar. Vijayadashami marks the tenth day of the Navratri festival and holds great significance in Hindu mythology and culture.

Here are some key aspects of Vijayadashami:

1. Victory of Good over Evil: The word “Vijayadashami” is derived from two Sanskrit words: “Vijaya” meaning victory and “Dashami” meaning the tenth day. The festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil and righteousness over unrighteousness.
2. Legend of Lord Rama: One of the most famous legends associated with Vijayadashami is the story of Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana. According to the Hindu epic, the Ramayana, Lord Rama, along with his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, defeated Ravana and rescued Sita from his captivity. This event is commemorated by the burning of effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghnad (or Meghanada) in many parts of India.
3. Durga Puja Conclusion: In West Bengal and some other parts of India, Vijayadashami marks the conclusion of the grand Durga Puja festival, during which idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped with great enthusiasm. On Vijayadashami, these idols are immersed in water bodies, symbolizing the departure of the goddess to her heavenly abode.
4. Durga Visarjan: In some regions, especially in North India, idols of Goddess Durga are also immersed in water bodies on Vijayadashami. This process is known as “Durga Visarjan” and is accompanied by processions and celebrations.
5. A Time for New Beginnings: Vijayadashami is considered an auspicious day to begin new endeavors, start formal education, or initiate any important project. It is believed that any undertaking started on this day will be blessed with success and prosperity.
6. Cultural Celebrations: In addition to religious rituals, Vijayadashami is celebrated with cultural programs, processions, and performances in many parts of India. Traditional music and dance performances, especially of the Ram Lila (a dramatic retelling of Lord Rama’s story), are common during this time.
7. Symbolic Rituals: In some regions, people exchange leaves of the “Shami” tree as a symbol of gold and prosperity. These leaves are considered auspicious and are believed to bring good fortune.
8. Regional Variations: Vijayadashami is celebrated with regional variations across India. While the essence of the festival remains the same—marking the victory of good over evil—the customs and traditions may differ from one region to another.

Vijayadashami/Dussehra is a significant and joyous Hindu festival that signifies the triumph of righteousness and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion throughout the country. It reflects the rich cultural and mythological heritage of India.