Dussehra 2024: When and How to Celebrate Vijayadashami

Dussehra, also referred to as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant festivals celebrated by the Hindu community in India. It marks the conclusion of Navratri and its date varies each year. Celebrated on the 10th day of the Hindu month of Kartik, Dussehra in 2024 will be observed on October 12th.

The Significance of Dussehra: Celebrating Victory Over Evil

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a prominent Hindu festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. It commemorates Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana and also honors Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. This festival marks the conclusion of Navratri and is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashwin or Kartik, signifying the spiritual message that righteousness always prevails.

The Spirit of Dussehra: A Festival of Triumph and Tradition

Dussehra is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana of Lanka. The festival is marked by grand processions, where idols of deities such as Durga, Saraswati, Ganesha, and Lakshmi are carried to rivers or oceans for immersion. Effigies of Ravana are burned to symbolize the triumph of good over evil, accompanied by vibrant firework displays.

The festival also marks the beginning of Diwali preparations. Celebrated with immense enthusiasm across India, each region brings its own distinct flavor to the occasion, reflecting the widespread reverence for the victory of righteousness.

Vijayadashami Celebrations: Diverse Traditions Across India

Vijayadashami is celebrated with a rich variety of customs throughout India, showcasing the country's cultural diversity. Some prominent traditions include:

• Effigy Burning: In Northern India, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Delhi, large effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkaran, and son Meghnad are set ablaze, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Grand Ramlila performances depict the life of Lord Rama.
• Durga Visarjan: In states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Assam, Vijayadashami marks the conclusion of Durga Puja. Idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in rivers or lakes, symbolizing her return to the divine realm.
• Ayudha Puja: In Southern states such as Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, people celebrate by worshipping weapons, tools, vehicles, and books as part of Ayudha Puja, expressing gratitude for success and prosperity.
• Shami Puja: In Maharashtra, the Shami tree is revered, symbolizing victory and good fortune as part of Vijayadashami rituals.

Vijayadashami is more than just a festival; it embodies values of courage, righteousness, and the enduring victory of good over evil, bringing people together through different yet interconnected celebrations across the country.

Vijayadashami 2024 Date

Saturday, October 12.

Vijayadashami 2024 Tithi Time

Dashami Tithi Begins - 10:58 AM on Oct 12, 2024.

Dashami Tithi Ends - 09:08 AM on Oct 13, 2024.