Celebrating Dussehra: 10 Lesser-Known Facts About the Festival
10 Fascinating Facts About Dussehra: Celebrating the Victory of Good Over Evil
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant festivals in India. It marks the triumph of good over evil and is celebrated with immense enthusiasm and devotion across the country. Each region has its unique customs and rituals, but the central theme remains the same: the victory of light over darkness, symbolized by Lord Rama’s defeat of Ravana and Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura. Let’s dive into 10 fascinating facts about this vibrant festival.
1. The Symbolism of Good Over Evil
Dussehra signifies the victory of good over evil, embodied by two major events in Hindu mythology. In the epic Ramayana, Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, defeats the ten-headed demon king Ravana, who had abducted Rama’s wife, Sita. Ravana’s defeat marks the victory of righteousness, symbolized by Lord Rama, over the forces of evil. In another tradition, particularly in Eastern India, Dussehra celebrates Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, showcasing the power of good against malevolent forces.
2. Conclusion of Navratri
Dussehra marks the conclusion of the nine-day festival of Navratri. During these nine days, devotees worship different forms of Goddess Durga, invoking her blessings for strength, wisdom, and prosperity. The culmination on the tenth day, Dussehra, symbolizes the successful conquest of inner demons and the final victory of virtue and purity.
3. Ramlila Performances
One of the most notable aspects of Dussehra celebrations, especially in Northern India, is the performance of Ramlila, a dramatic re-enactment of the life of Lord Rama. Ramlila tells the story of Rama’s journey, including his exile, the abduction of Sita, and his battle with Ravana. These performances take place over several days, culminating in the burning of giant effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkaran, and his son Meghnath. The burning symbolizes the destruction of evil and is a moment of high drama and excitement for both participants and spectators.
4. Effigy Burning Tradition
The climax of Dussehra celebrations often features the burning of towering effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnath. These effigies, stuffed with fireworks, are set ablaze to signify the destruction of evil forces. This spectacular event attracts large crowds and is a visually stunning representation of the festival’s deeper meaning. Major cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Kolkata host grand effigy-burning events, making it a cultural spectacle that brings together communities from all walks of life.
5. Kullu Dussehra: A Unique Celebration
While Dussehra is celebrated across India, the festivities in Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh, are particularly special. Known as Kullu Dussehra, this week-long festival begins on the day of Dussehra and attracts thousands of tourists and devotees from around the world. The celebrations include a grand procession of deities, with colorful floats, music, and dance. Unlike other parts of India, Kullu Dussehra does not include the burning of effigies. Instead, it focuses on the peaceful celebration of the victory of good over evil.
6. Exchange of Apta Leaves
In Maharashtra and Karnataka, a unique custom during Dussehra involves the exchange of Apta leaves. These leaves are believed to symbolize gold and are exchanged among friends and family as a gesture of goodwill and prosperity. This tradition traces its roots to a legend in which King Raghu, an ancestor of Lord Rama, was blessed with gold leaves as a reward for his charity and valor.
7. Worship of Shami Trees
In many parts of India, the Shami tree holds special significance during Dussehra. According to the Mahabharata, the Pandavas hid their weapons in a Shami tree during their 13-year exile. On the day of Dussehra, they retrieved their weapons and went to war with their enemies. As a result, the tree is worshipped as a symbol of victory, strength, and protection. Devotees offer prayers to the Shami tree and seek its blessing for success in their endeavors.
8. Mysore Dussehra
In Karnataka, Dussehra is celebrated in the royal city of Mysore with grandeur and splendor. Known as Mysore Dussehra, the festival dates back to the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire, where it was celebrated as a state festival. The highlight of Mysore Dussehra is the grand procession of Goddess Chamundeshwari’s idol, which is carried on a beautifully decorated elephant through the streets of the city. The royal family of Mysore participates in the festivities, adding to the regality of the celebration.
9. Dussehra as an Auspicious Day for New Beginnings
Dussehra is considered an auspicious day for new beginnings. Many people choose this day to start new ventures, purchase new property, or make important life decisions. It is believed that any initiative taken on Dussehra will be blessed with success and prosperity, as the day is charged with positive energy and spiritual significance.
10. Diverse Names and Traditions Across India
Dussehra is known by different names in various parts of India. In Northern India, it is called Dussehra or Vijayadashami, focusing on Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. In Bengal, it is celebrated as Bijoya Dashami, marking the end of Durga Puja, where idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in water. In South India, especially Tamil Nadu, Dussehra is celebrated as Golu, where families create displays of dolls representing deities, mythological characters, and even everyday scenes.
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