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On the 10th day of the Ashwin month, according to the Hindu calendar, the great festival of Dussehra is celebrated. According to the Gregorian calendar, in September or October, Dussehra celebration is held. Shri Ram, the 7th incarnation of Bhagwan Vishnu, annihilated the 10 Headed Demon King Ravana, and Dussehra is a symbol of his victory. Goddess Durga's triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura is another reason for the celebration which is celebrated as Vijayadashami.
What is Dussehra Vijayadashami Festival? Everything about Dussehra (Vijayadashami) Festival.
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Dussehra (or Vijayadashami) represents the triumph of virtue over evil. On this day, good triumphed since Shri Ram executed the devil king Ravana. This is symbolized in various regions of India, particularly in the northern regions, by the ritualistic burning of gigantic representations of Ravana. Dussehra and the Navratri festival, which celebrates Goddess Durga's triumph over the demon Mahishasura, are celebrated simultaneously in the eastern areas. Various performances, processions, and rituals are part of the festival's celebration of moral principles and the triumph of good over evil.
Dussehra Date, Puja Time (Muhurat Tithi) 2024
Vijayadashami on Saturday, October 12, 2024
Vijay Muhurat: 02:08 PM to 02:56 PM
Duration: 00 Hours 48 Mins
Bengal Vijayadashami on Sunday, October 13, 2024
Aparahna Puja Time: 01:20 PM to 03:44 PM
Duration - 02 Hours 24 Mins
Dashami Tithi Begins: 10:58 AM on Oct 12, 2024
Dashami Tithi Ends: 09:08 AM on Oct 13, 2024
Shravana Nakshatra Begins: 05:25 AM on Oct 12, 2024
Shravana Nakshatra Ends: 04:27 AM on Oct 13, 2024
Dussehra & Vijayadashami Meaning
Shri Ram defeating the 10-headed evil king Ravana is the symbolic meaning of Dussehra, which is another name for Vijayadashami. The Sanskrit words 'Dasha' (meaning ten) and 'Hara' (meaning defeat) are the festival's origins. On the tenth day of the lunar month of Ashwin, the term 'Vijayadashami' is used to symbolize the triumph of good over evil. The term 'Vijaya' means victory, while 'Dashami' means the tenth day. Celebrated with a wide variety of cultural and religious rites throughout India, the festival represents the ideas of virtue, honesty, and the ultimate victory of righteousness over vice.
Why is Dussehra also called Vijayadashami?
Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, is a festive celebrated in many ways throughout India's varied cultural landscapes, but it has a common theme—the triumph of virtue over evil. The Navratri celebration reaches its climax on Vijayadashami in Odisha, West Bengal, and Bihar, when the triumph of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura is celebrated with great fervor. During the festival, these areas celebrate Durga Puja with much excitement and pomp. Goddess idols, which are skillfully created, are worshipped for nine days. On the tenth day, Vijayadashami, the idols are submerged in water to represent the goddess's journey back to her holy dwelling after her triumph.
Alternatively, in central and northern India, the legendary story of Shri Ram's victory with Ravana, the king of demons with 10 heads, is primarily linked with Dussehra. Symbolically, huge representations of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and son Meghnad are burned to bring this story to life during Ramlila performances. The return of justice and the annihilation of evil are symbolized by these flaming spectacles.
Dussehra and Vijayadashami both celebrate the victory of good over evil, although in different ways depending on culture. As Dussehra celebrates the vanquishing of Ravana, the evil king with 10 heads, Vijayadashami signifies the central idea of virtue triumphing on the tenth day. They represent the cultural variety of India, yet they are bound together in their joy at the triumph of good over evil.
Why is Dussehra celebrated for 10 days?
During the ten days of Dussehra, which are associated with the Navratri festival, one goes on a deep spiritual quest that brings together the stories of Goddess Durga and Shri Ram, reflecting the underlying theme of good triumphing over evil. Every day is a new chapter in this holy story, where good things happen when cosmic forces and heavenly powers overcome evil.
Invocation of Divine Power (Day 1 - Pratipada):
On the very first day, the wrath of Maa Durga and the righteousness of Shri Ram are called upon. Beginning on this day, followers seek heavenly blessings to go on the path of dharma, marking the beginning of their spiritual journey.
Inner Reflection and Determination (Day 2 - Dwitiya):
As Maa Durga gets ready to confront Mahishasura and Shri Ram thinks about his mission to defeat Ravana, this day represents the inner contemplation and resolve required to overcome life's obstacles, letting go of imperfections and bad habits.
Courage to Confront Evil (Day 3 - Tritiya):
The third day is a symbol of the heavenly fearlessness that Rama and Durga embody when they confront evil. The perseverance with which Durga faced Mahishasura and Ram faced Ravana served as examples for followers to draw spiritual power as they face their own demons.
Overcoming Obstacles (Day 4 - Chaturthi):
On the fourth day we see Devi Durga conquer each demon and Shri Ram face and conquer Ravana's challenges; on this day, we see the spiritual process of overcoming worldly and internal hurdles for growth.
Nurturing Virtue and Balance (Day 5 - Panchami and Day 6 - Shashti):
These days are devoted to the cultivation of good qualities and the preservation of life's balance. The lessons of Dharma observance and the nurturing of inner virtue are emphasized by Maa Durga's kind favor and Shri Ram's devotion to it.
Awakening of Divine Power (Day 7 - Saptami):
On the 7th day, the divine energy awakens as Durga releases her whole Shakti and Maryada Purushottam Ram gets ready for the last fight. It offers a powerful metaphor for the spiritual awakening that occurs inside followers, enabling them to face and overcome both internal and external obstacles.
Fierce Resolve and Final Purification (Day 8 - Ashtami and Day 9 - Navami):
The eighth day, marks Durga in her most aggressive form, while the ninth day, Navami, marks the beginning of Bhagwan Ram's last purification as he prepares to face Ravana head-on. In preparation for the triumph of justice, these days represent the pinnacle of spiritual strength and the cleansing of the soul.
When Good Things Triumph Over Evil (Day 10):
On the tenth day, which is also called Dussehra or Vijayadashami, the victory of good over evil is celebrated. The demise of evil and the re-establishment of cosmic harmony are symbolized by Goddess Durga's triumph over Mahishasura. It is a celebration of Shri Ram's conquest over Ravana, the king of demons with 10 heads, and a reminder that Dharma may win over Adharma.
This day marks the completion of a profound spiritual journey, in which Durga and Ram, as heavenly forces, conquer the manifestations of evil, demonstrating the eternal triumph of virtue, truth, and moral purity. During the 10 days of Dussehra and Navratri, the tales of Rama and Durga are interwoven, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and the everlasting truth that virtue will ultimately prevail over evil.
Vijayadashami History
India has been celebrating Vijayadashami historically with tremendous enthusiasm, and each area has its own customs:
Ramlila in North India:
Ravana's effigies are burned at the end of Ramlila, a theatrical representation of the Ramayana performed in towns like Varanasi and Delhi. This signifies the triumph of virtue over evil.
Mysore Dasara:
One of the most elaborate events in Karnataka is the Mysore Dasara, which honors Goddess Chamundeshwari with a majestic royal procession with adorned elephants and traditional music.
Kullu Dussehra:
Celebrated for a week in Himachal Pradesh, Kullu Dussehra draws together Gods from nearby villages in vibrant processions. It is renowned for mixing devotion with a distinctive folk culture.
Durga Puja in West Bengal:
The Grand Durga Puja event culminates on Vijayadashami, when idols of Goddess Durga are submerged in waterways to represent her journey back to Mount Kailash.
Tamil Nadu's Ayudha Puja:
On the day of Vijayadashami, people in the southern states worship tools, cars, and weapons as part of Ayudha Puja, a celebration of labour and artistry.
The main themes of triumph, bravery, and justice are highlighted throughout these festivities, which also reflect India's many cultural manifestations.
Significance of Dussehra (Vijayadashami)
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The festival commemorates the victory of good over evil as it is the day when Shri Ram defeated the ten-headed demon king Ravana, who had abducted Ram's wife, Sita and held Her captive in Lanka. But the devoted wife Sita braved all ordeals resiliently and waited to be united with Rama. An epic war was fought between Rama and Ravana to rescue Sita. The war lasted for ten days, which culminated on Dashmi (the tenth lunar day of the Hindu calendar month) when Rama valiantly destroyed the ten-headed Ravana and took Sita home. The glorious victory of good over evil and the homecoming of Rama, Lakshman, Sita and Hanuman were celebrated with great happiness, which continues to be followed by Hindus to date in the form of Dussehra.
Why do we celebrate Dussehra (Vijayadashami)?
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a moment to rejoice in the everlasting reality that Dharma, or goodness, shall triumph over Adharma, or evil. As a powerful reminder that righteousness will ultimately triumph over evil, the celebration is a significant time-honored tradition. The tales of Goddess Durga's conquest of Mahishasura and Shri Ram's conquest of Ravana serve to celebrate Dussehra and give us hope that good will ultimately win over evil.
Dussehra Festival Story (Information)
All the legends about Dussehra portray riveting narrations and stories that inspire us to side with good and destroy evil. On this day, Goddess Durga emerged victorious by killing Mahishasura and his demons. Goddess Durga derived gigantic powers from many of the Gods to kill Mahishasura, which She did after nine nights on the tenth day, which is called Vijaya (victory) Dashmi.
It is also believed that on this day Shri Ram had performed 'Chandi Homa' and invoked the blessings of Durga, who provided Him the secret knowledge of the way to kill Ravana. On the tenth day, Rama found Sita in Ashok Vatika and defeated Ravana, a great event called Vijaya Dashami.
Vijayadashami is also regarded as an auspicious day to begin formal learning. Goddess Saraswati is invoked on this day as students keep their books before the Goddess on the ninth day of Navratri and take them back after puja on Vijayadasami, the tenth day.
Dussehra also marks the return of the Pandavas to their kingdom at the end of their exile to rule their subjects in a just manner.
What to do on Vijayadasami & How to celebrate Dussehra?
Vijayadashami is celebrated with a number of rituals, including Shami Puja, Aparajita Puja, and Seema Avalanghan. Drik Panchang pointed out that these rituals, in accordance with the Hindu division of the day, should be carried out at Aparahna time.
Dussehra Puja Vidhi for Vijayadashami & How to do Puja Vidhi at home?
Preparation
Clean your home and the area where you will perform the puja.
Set up a small altar with idols or pictures of Durga Maa or Bhagwan Ram.
Arrange flowers, incense sticks, a lamp (diya), sweets, fruits, and other offerings on the altar.
Gather items like turmeric, kumkum, rice, and holy water for the puja.
Lighting the Lamp
Light the lamp (Diya) and incense sticks to begin the puja.
Offer flowers and pray to Lord Ganesha first, seeking his blessings for the successful completion of the puja.
Invocation
Sit facing east or north.
Close your eyes and meditate for a few minutes, focusing on the divine presence.
Invoke Durga Maa or Bhagwan Ram by chanting their names or mantras, inviting them to bless you and your family.
Offering the Prasad
Offer fruits, sweets, and other prepared food items (Prasad) to the deity.
Sprinkle holy water (using a flower or leaf) on the offerings, symbolizing purification.
Aarti
Perform the aarti with sacred a lit lamp in a circular motion in front of the deity, while singing or playing a traditional aarti song.
Ring a bell or celebrate clapping, during the aarti.
Prayers
Recite prayers or mantras dedicated to Durga Maa or Bhagwan Ram, asking for their blessings for health, prosperity, and protection from evil.
Vijayadashami Rituals
If possible, place a small weapon or tool, symbolizing Shri Ram's bow or Maa Durga’s weapons, on the altar and offer prayers for strength and victory over challenges.
If you have a vehicle or any tools related to your profession, perform a simple puja for them, symbolizing victory and success in your endeavors.
Concluding the Puja
Offer Prasad to everyone in the household.
Take a small amount of kumkum and rice and apply it on your forehead (tilak) as a sign of blessings.
Share the Prasad with family and neighbors, spreading the joy of the festival.
Exchange of Good Wishes
On Vijayadashami, it's customary to exchange sweets and good wishes with friends, family, and neighbors, celebrating the victory of good over evil.
This simple puja ritual helps you connect spiritually with the essence of Vijayadashami, invoking blessings, and celebrating the triumph of righteousness.
Vijay Dashmi Vrat (Vidhi)
After nine days of devotedly observing the Navratri fast, many devotees break their fast on Vijayadashami. Meat, garlic, and onions are considered tamsic foods that enhance bad energy; thus, they avoid eating them during this time. They follow a sattvic diet instead, which is virtuous since it is light, clean, and beneficial to one's spirituality. After the puja and prayers on Vijayadashami, devotees break their fast with a modest, sattvic meal, which often includes dairy products, fruits, and freshly prepared Prasad. This rite signifies the conclusion of the fasting season and the purification of soul and body, which strengthens the spiritual triumph of virtue over vice. Most people observe Phalhar Vrat during the 10 Days of Navratri or Dussehra.
Dussehra Vijayadashami Vrat Katha
The Katha or story associated with Dussehra captivate us with their enchanting narratives, igniting our imagination and encouraging us to embrace righteousness while annihilating despair. Today marks the ecstatic day when the divine Goddess Durga emerged victorious, vanquishing the enormous Mahishasura and his army of demons. The mighty Goddess Durga used immense divine energy from various deities to overcome the devastating Mahishasura. After nine nights of relentless battle, she emerged triumphant on the tenth day, known as Vijaya Dashmi.
On this auspicious day, it is said that Shri Ram performed the sacred 'Chandi Homa' and sought the divine blessings of Durga. It is believed that she provided him with the hidden wisdom to defeat Ravana. On the tenth day, Shri Ram found Sita in Ashok Vatika and established a victory over Ravana, marking a momentous occasion known as Vijaya Dashami.
Vijayadashami is widely celebrated as a day of great relevance, marking the start of a new journey towards knowledge and growth. On this auspicious day, devotees pay homage to Goddess Saraswati by placing their books before her and retrieving them after the puja on Vijayadashami, the tenth day of Navratri.
Dussehra is a significant event that symbolizes the triumphant homecoming of the Pandavas after their period of exile, where they were able to establish a reign of fairness and justice over their loyal subjects.
Spiritual Products & Services Associated with Dussehra (Vijayadashami)
12 Mukhi Rudraksha
The 12 Mukhi Rudraksha is associated with brilliance, intelligence, radiance and power. It is ruled by Lord Surya and the planet Sun. Thus, the wearer of the 12 Mukhi Rudraksha is blessed with self-assurance, leadership qualities, strength, and vitality. The 12 Mukhi Rudraksha is associated with name, fame and power. It is useful for those wanting to get rid of stress, anger, greed, worries, co-dependency and low self-esteem. The 12 Mukhi Rudraksha balances the Manipura chakra.
Ruby Stone
Ruby is one of the most magnificent, expensive and sought-after precious stones in the world. Ruby is one of the most magnificent, expensive and sought-after precious stones in the world.
Ram Parivar Idols Set
The Ram Parivaar Brass Idols Set holds significant spiritual and cultural value, representing the ideals of Dharma (righteousness) and devotion. These idols can be used for worship in puja rooms, spiritual practices, and as decorative pieces in homes, temples, and cultural settings.
Akhand Ramayan Paath
The Akhand Ramayan Path introduced people to Lord Rama and His virtuous and righteous way of living thus, establishing a role model and way of living for mankind. The objective of performing the Akhand Ramayan Path is not only to learn about the life of Lord Rama but to learn and to adapt His qualities and virtues in our life. Performing the Akhand Ramayan Path helps to invite positivity in life and wards of negative energies. It fills life with peace and contentment. The Akhand Ramayan Path benefits the Yajman to lead a successful life.
Ram & Hanuman Pujas
Book Ram & Hanuman Puja Service
Worship and revere Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman by conducting Pujas and Yagnas dedicated to them. Lord Ram and Hanuman are worshipped by their devotees primarily for power, protection, strength, knowledge and success. Lord Ram is the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Lord Hanuman is the most ardent devotee of Lord Ram, and it is believed that worshiping Lord Hanuman is equivalent to worshiping Lord Ram and the vice versa.
Dussehra Puja
Dussehra, also known as Vijaya Dashami, represents the victory of righteousness over wickedness. It is observed via ceremonial practices aimed at invoking blessings for joy, well-being, and wealth. The Dussehra Puja ceremony venerates Lord Ram and Lord Hanumanji, making it a propitious occasion for embarking on new endeavors and securing heavenly safeguard and triumph.
Chandi Homa
Since Bhagwan Ram performed Chandi Homa to seek from victory against Ravan it is very auspicious to perform Chandi Paath Homa on this day to seek the blessings of Name, Fame, Success & Victory in all endeavors
Panchmukhi Hanuman Yantra Locket
Buy Panchmukhi Hanuman Yantra Locket
Wearing Panchmukhi Hanuman yantra Locket brings, protection from all negative energies and malefic of planet Saturn, gives confidence and mental and physical strength, brings courage to overcome all difficulties and attain success in life.
Personal Message on Dussehra by Sakhashree Neetaji
On this Auspicious day of Dussehra watch Neetaji talk about the real significance behind this festival. The battle between Rama and Ravana is the war between Sankalpa (your ultimate Intention) and Distractions due to Vrittis of the mind to bring back awareness (Sita) within.
One needs to shed the vices of KAMA VASANA (Lust), KRODHA (Anger), MOHA (Attachment), LOBHA (Greed), MADA (Pride), MATSARYA (Jealousy), SWARTHA (Selfishness), ANYAAYA (Injustice), AMANAVTA (Cruelty), AHAMKARA (Ego) to purify the Citta and realize the Self within.
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