Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival celebrated in various parts of India. It marks the triumph of good over evil and the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. Here is an overview of the origin and history of Dussehra in India:
Ramayana and Lord Rama: The origins of Dussehra can be traced back to the ancient Hindu epic Ramayana. The festival commemorates the return of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his brother Lakshmana to Ayodhya after their exile of 14 years and the defeat of Ravana.
Rama's Battle with Ravana: According to the Ramayana, Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, abducted Sita, leading to a fierce battle between Rama and his army of monkeys against Ravana and his forces. After a long and intense struggle, Rama eventually defeated Ravana on the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami.
Significance of Victory: The victory of Lord Rama over Ravana symbolizes the triumph of righteousness, truth, and dharma (moral and ethical values) over evil forces. It represents the ultimate victory of good over evil.
Celebration of Dussehra: Dussehra is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, which usually falls in September or October. The festival is observed with great enthusiasm and reverence across India.
Rituals and Traditions: Dussehra celebrations vary in different parts of India, but common traditions include the staging of Ramayana plays, known as Ramleela, which depict the life and epic battles of Lord Rama. These performances often culminate with the symbolic burning of effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghanada, signifying the victory of good over evil.
Worship of Goddess Durga: In some regions, Dussehra also marks the end of Navaratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga and her various forms. Devotees engage in fasting, prayer, and cultural festivities during Navaratri, leading up to the final day of Dussehra.
Cultural Celebrations: Dussehra is a time for celebration and joy. It is marked by processions, music, dance performances, and cultural events. People dress up in traditional attire, exchange greetings, and visit fairs and markets to enjoy various forms of entertainment and indulge in festive foods.
Dussehra is a festival that symbolizes the victory of righteousness and the power of good over evil. It holds cultural and religious significance, reminding people of the importance of upholding moral values and standing against injustice. The celebration of Dussehra brings communities together, fostering unity, harmony, and the spirit of righteousness.
Year | Weekday | Date | Name | Time |
---|---|---|---|---|
2025 | Thursday | Oct 2, 2025 | Dussehra | 7 months from now |
2026 | Tuesday | Oct 20, 2026 | Dussehra | 1 year from now |
2027 | Saturday | Oct 9, 2027 | Dussehra | 2 years from now |
2028 | Wednesday | Sep 27, 2028 | Dussehra | 3 years from now |
2029 | Tuesday | Oct 16, 2029 | Dussehra | 4 years from now |
2030 | Sunday | Oct 6, 2030 | Dussehra | 5 years from now |
2031 | Saturday | Oct 25, 2031 | Dussehra | 6 years from now |
2032 | Thursday | Oct 14, 2032 | Dussehra | 7 years from now |
2033 | Monday | Oct 3, 2033 | Dussehra | 8 years from now |
2034 | Sunday | Oct 22, 2034 | Dussehra | 9 years from now |
2035 | Thursday | Oct 11, 2035 | Dussehra | 10 years from now |
2036 | Monday | Sep 29, 2036 | Dussehra | 11 years from now |
2037 | Sunday | Oct 18, 2037 | Dussehra | 12 years from now |
2038 | Thursday | Oct 7, 2038 | Dussehra | 13 years from now |
2039 | Wednesday | Oct 26, 2039 | Dussehra | 14 years from now |
2040 | Monday | Oct 15, 2040 | Dussehra | 15 years from now |
2024 | Saturday | Oct 12, 2024 | Dussehra | 3 months ago |
2023 | Tuesday | Oct 24, 2023 | Dussehra | 1 year ago |
2022 | Wednesday | Oct 5, 2022 | Dussehra | 2 years ago |
2021 | Friday | Oct 15, 2021 | Dussehra | 3 years ago |
2020 | Sunday | Oct 25, 2020 | Dussehra | 4 years ago |
Notice, in particular, conversion from the other calendar to the Gregorian calendar, there may be discrepancies.