As the festive season unfolds across India, the 10th day of Navratri, known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra, stands out as a vibrant celebration that symbolises the triumph of good over evil. This major Hindu festival, observed with great reverence and enthusiasm, holds a unique place in Indian culture and mythology. Celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashvin, Vijayadashami signifies both the culmination of the nine-day Navratri festival and the beginning of new beginnings.
Significance of Vijayadashami
The significance of Vijayadashami is twofold, marked by two great victories from Indian mythology. It commemorates the epic triumph of Bhagwan Ram over the demon king Ravana, as narrated in the Ramayana. After Ravana abducted Bhagwan Ram’s wife, Maa Sita, a fierce battle ensued between the two. On the tenth day, Rama vanquished Ravana, freeing Sita and restoring justice. This victory is not just a tale of valor but a reminder of the importance of righteousness and the power of truth.
In another narrative, Vijayadashami is celebrated as the day Maa Durga defeated the shape-shifting buffalo demon Mahishasura after a battle that lasted for nine days. The Maa, embodying the collective power of all deities, took on the form of Mahishasura Mardini and restored peace and order. Thus, Vijayadashami symbolises the triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (unrighteousness) and the restoration of cosmic balance.
Celebrations across India
The manner in which Vijayadashami is celebrated varies significantly across the regions of India, reflecting the country’s rich diversity. In the northern, central, and western states, Dussehra marks the conclusion of Ramlila, a dramatic retelling of the life of Bhagwan Ram. Grand effigies of Ravana, symbolising evil, are burnt with fireworks, signifying the destruction of negativity and evil.
In southern, eastern, and northeastern states, Vijayadashami coincides with the end of Durga Puja, when beautifully adorned clay idols of Maa Durga, along with those of Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Kartikeya, are carried in processions to rivers and oceans for immersion. Amidst the sound of drums, chants, and dance, these idols are bid farewell, marking the end of a festive period and a prayer for the Maa to return next year.
In Maharashtra, families celebrate with special feasts and exchange of leaves of the Shami tree, symbolising gold and prosperity. Meanwhile, in Karnataka, the grand Mysore Dussehra is a spectacle of royal processions, traditional dance, and music, drawing thousands of spectators every year.
A Day of New Beginnings: Vidyarambham and Preparations for Diwali
Vijayadashami is also known as Vidyarambham in some parts of southern India, marking an auspicious day for starting new ventures or beginning one’s education. Children are traditionally introduced to the world of letters on this day, and this ceremony is considered highly auspicious. It is believed that starting a new endeavor on Vijayadashami leads to success and prosperity.
The festival also heralds the beginning of preparations for Diwali, the festival of lights, which occurs 20 days after Vijayadashami. The period between Vijayadashami and Diwali is filled with excitement and anticipation, as households begin cleaning, decorating, and planning for the grand celebrations of Diwali.
The Deeper Lesson of Vijayadashami
Beyond the rituals and celebrations, the essence of Vijayadashami lies in the moral lessons it imparts. It reminds us that just as Rama’s triumph over Ravana and Durga’s victory over Mahishasura, the eternal battle between good and evil also takes place within every individual. It teaches us that greed, arrogance, and hatred—symbolised by Ravana’s ten heads—must be conquered by the virtues of patience, humility, and compassion.
The words of Mandodari, Ravana’s queen, in the Ramayana are a poignant reminder of the price of unchecked ambition: “In the past, by performing great penance, you conquered the senses and conquered the three worlds. Now, as if revenging that enmity, those very senses have conquered you.” Her lament serves as a reminder that the real victory lies in mastering oneself and maintaining virtue.
Rituals and Fasting: A Spiritual Purification
The observance of Vijayadashami often involves fasting and special prayers to both Bhagwan Rama and Maa Durga. The Vrat or fast is kept with the intention of attaining both spiritual purification and the fulfillment of one’s desires. Devotees recite special mantras, such as the following dedicated to Maa Durga:
“Om Jayanti Mangala Kali Bhadrakali Kapalini.
Durga Kshama Shiva Dhatri Swaha Swadha Namostute.”
This prayer is chanted to seek blessings for strength and victory in personal battles. It is followed by reading or listening to the Ramayana or Devi Mahatmya, reflecting on the divine triumphs that inspire the celebrations.
