Dussehra 2024: Date and How Vijayadashami Celebrated in Different Regions of India?

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most important Hindu festivals, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Held on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashwin and following the nine-day Navratri festival, Dussehra holds great cultural, religious and spiritual significance across India.

Dussehra commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, an important plot in the ancient epic “Ramayana”. This day symbolizes the victory of good (Dharma) over evil (Adharma). This holiday not only commemorates this epic victory, but also reinforces the universal message that no matter how powerful evil seems, good always wins in the end.

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When is Dussehra 2024? Check Vijayadashami Dates

Dussehra 2024 falls on Saturday, October 12, and is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar. Dussehra is held on the tenth day of the lunar fortnight in the Hindu month of Ashwin (September to October) and is the end of the nine-day Navratri festival.

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What is the significance of Dussehra?

Dussehra commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over the demon Ravana, an important plot in the ancient epic “Ramayana”. Ravana was a powerful king of Sri Lanka who kidnapped Sita, the wife of Lord Rama. In order to rescue her, Rama, accompanied by his brother Lakshmana and the loyal Hanuman, launched a fierce battle with Ravana. On the tenth day, Rama finally defeated Ravana, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

This festival not only celebrates Rama’s heroic victory but also celebrates a universal truth: no matter how terrible evil appears, righteousness always prevails.

Apart from the Ramayana, Dussehra is also associated with goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The legend is especially celebrated in West Bengal, where the last day of Durga Puja coincides with Dussehra and is known as Bijoya Dashami.

How is Vijayadashami celebrated in different parts of India?

October 12, 2024 is an important day across India, although the celebrations vary from region to region:

• Northern India (Ramlila and Ravana Dahan): In cities such as Delhi, Varanasi and Ayodhya, famous performances of the Ramayana (called Ramlila) take place on Dussehra It reaches its peak with the symbolic burning of large effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbukaran. This tradition represents the end of evil and the triumph of truth.
• West Bengal (Durga Puja and Vijayadashami): In West Bengal, Dussehra coincides with Vijayadashami, the last day of Durga Puja. The immersion ceremony of Durga Visarjan is accompanied by a vibrant procession, marking the return of the Goddess to her heavenly abode.
• Mysore (Mysore Dasara): The famous Mysore Dasara celebrations in Karnataka will conclude on October 12, 2024, marked by a royal procession and cultural activities. The brightly lit Mysore Palace and grand celebrations make it a major attraction.
• Gujarat (Navratri Dandiya): In Gujarat, the nine-day-long celebrations of Garba and Dandiya Raas culminate in Dussehra and are celebrated with dance, devotion and prayers.
• Maharashtra (Shami Puja): In Maharashtra, Shami leaves (symbolizing gold) are exchanged on Dussehra to symbolize goodwill and prosperity. The Shami Puja tradition commemorates the victory of the Pandavas in the Mahabharata.

Finally, as we celebrate Dussehra 2024, let us reflect on the timeless message of this festival – the victory of good over evil and the importance of living a righteous life. The festival not only brings communities together to celebrate, but also serves as a reminder to uphold values ​​that transcend religious and cultural boundaries.

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