Facts about Dussehra
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a significant Hindu festival celebrating the triumph of good over evil. It commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, symbolizing the destruction of evil and the victory of righteousness.
The festival is celebrated with great fervor, marked by the burning of giant effigies of Ravana, processions, music, and dance performances. It marks the beginning of the festive season in India, culminating in Diwali. Dussehra reminds us of the eternal values of good over evil, truth over falsehood, and the importance of standing up against injustice and cruelty.
The Story Behind Dussehra
According to Hindu mythology, Ravana, the king of Lanka, was a powerful and arrogant demon who had obtained a boon from Lord Brahma that made him invincible to gods and goddesses. However, the boon did not protect him from humans. Ravana’s cruelty and evil deeds eventually led to his downfall. He kidnapped Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, which led to a fierce battle between Rama and Ravana.
The battle lasted for nine days, and on the tenth day, Rama killed Ravana with the help of his brother Lakshmana and the monkey god Hanuman. This victory is celebrated as Dussehra, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.
Facts about Dussehra 1-10
Dussehra is a Hindu festival celebrated on the tenth day of the month of Ashvina.
It falls in September or October according to the Gregorian calendar.
Dussehra is also known as Vijayadashami.
The festival marks the triumph of good over evil.
It commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana.
The story of Rama and Ravana is described in the epic Ramayana.
Ravana was a powerful and arrogant demon who had obtained a boon from Lord Brahma.
The boon made him invincible to gods and goddesses, but not humans.
Ravana’s cruelty and evil deeds eventually led to his downfall.
He kidnapped Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, leading to a fierce battle.
Facts about Dussehra 11-20
The battle lasted for nine days, and Rama killed Ravana on the tenth day.
Dussehra symbolizes the destruction of evil and the victory of good.
Preparations for Dussehra begin several days in advance.
People clean and decorate their homes, and temples are adorned with flowers and lights.
Giant effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad are erected in many parts of India.
These effigies are later burned to symbolize the destruction of evil.
Ramlila, a theatrical performance depicting the story of Ramayana, is staged in many places.
Dussehra is celebrated with processions, music, and dance performances.
People exchange gifts and sweets with family and friends.
The festival marks the beginning of the festive season in India, culminating in Diwali.
Facts about Dussehra 21-30
Dussehra is celebrated differently in various regions of India.
In North India, Ramlila performances and effigy burning are common.
In South India, it is celebrated as a 10-day festival honoring the goddess Durga.
In West Bengal, Dussehra is celebrated as Durga Puja, a five-day festival.
In Gujarat, it is celebrated with garba and dandiya raas, traditional folk dances.
Dussehra is also celebrated in Nepal, where it is known as Dashain.
The festival is a national holiday in India and Nepal.
Dussehra is associated with the worship of the goddess Durga in some regions.
The festival marks the beginning of the harvest season in some parts of India.
Dussehra is a celebration of the eternal values of good over evil and truth over falsehood.
Dussehra is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil and the victory of truth over falsehood. It is a reminder of the importance of righteousness, courage, and devotion. The festival is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across India, with different regions having their unique traditions and customs. As we celebrate Dussehra, we are reminded of the eternal values of good over evil and the importance of standing up against injustice and cruelty.
