Dussehra: Victory of Good Over Evil

Dussehra, the 10th day of Sharad Navratri, marks the victory of good over evil. The day is also called Vijayadashami and is celebrated across the country with great enthusiasm. Though the way of commemorating the festival varies from region to region but the message remains the same. 

Many mythological stories are associated with this day, which include Lord Rama killing Ravana and the defeat of Mahishasura by Goddess Durga. On this propitious day, people worship the shami tree and also exchange its leaves, which are believed to symbolize victory, peace, and prosperity.

Mythological Stories Behind Dussehra

Lord Rama Kills Ravana

This is the most popular story from the Ramayana. It states that Lord Rama killed the demon king Ravana and freed his wife Sita from his clutches, and this day is celebrated as Vijayadashami/Dussehra. He restored Dharma and proved that cruelty and arrogance cannot last forever.

The Defeat of Mahishasura by Goddess Durga

This legend is famous in the eastern part of India, and it states that Goddess Durga defeated Mahishasura, a buffalo demon. The battle went on for nine nights, and on the tenth day, the divine form slayed the demon, marking the triumph of good over evil. In states like West Bengal and Kolkata, idols of Goddess Durga are taken out in grand processions and later immersed in water.

Pandavas and the Shami Tree

This story comes from the greatest epic Mahabharata. Before going to Agyatvas, the final year of their 13-year exile, Pandavas hid their weapons in the Shami tree. After completing the phase, they retrieved their weapons, worshipped the tree, and headed back to Hastinapur to reclaim their kingdom.

Dussehra Celebration Across Regions

Festivities vary from one part of India to another, but the spirit remains the same. Here is how Dasara is carried out:

North India - Huge effigies of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnath are burnt, marking the destruction of evil. The Ram Leela act is performed to retell the story of Ramayana.

Eastern Part of India - In places like Kolkata, West Bengal, Odisha, Dussehra marks the end of Durga Puja. Idols of Maa Durga are taken out for procession, and both kids and the elderly take active part. The celebrations end with immersing Durga idols in the river.

Western Part of India - For the people in Gujarat, Navratri is the time of performing Garba, a traditional folk dance. They worship Maa Durga and celebrate her victory over Mahishasura by dancing, music, and good food. 

South India - People in this part of India celebrate Dasara by displaying dolls and figurines of gods and goddesses for nine days. On the day of Vijayadashami, the Shami tree is worshipped, and in the evening, the leaves of the tree are exchanged with friends and family, wishing them good luck and prosperity. 

Mysore (Karnataka) is known for the grandest celebration of Dasara. The idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is placed in an Ambari (Howdah) and taken out for procession on an elephant’s back. Lakhs of people visit this place to witness Mysore Dasara grandeur.

Dussehra is a true example of unity in diversity. People may celebrate it in different ways across India, but the message is always the same: truth wins and goodness lasts forever.

Significance of Dussehra

Dussehra is not merely rituals and mythology. There are lessons that connect with daily life.

• It reminds us that, sooner or later, truth and justice will be served and goodness will always win.

• The festivals also help us deal with our pride, greed, and anger.

• Dussehra is also the best day for new beginnings or purchasing new goods, a house, or land.

For Indians settled abroad, the celebration of Dussehra ensures that they stay connected with the culture and also pass on these values to the next generations.

Celebrate Dussehra Across Borders with The Desi Food

Dussehra is more than a festival; it is the time for the entire family to come together and celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Staying abroad? Don't worry, as you will find the necessary puja items, idols, diyas, sweets, snacks, traditional attire, and more at The Desi Food. Order spiritual books like Valmiki Ramayana to know more stories and the epic of Ramayana..Gift My First Library of Hindu Gods and Goddesses to your children and introduce them to the Gods and their stories. With our international delivery service to the USA, UK, Canada, and 80+ countries, you can celebrate Dussehra the way you did back home.

Visit thedesifood.com today to explore our collection. Order online and have Dussehra essentials delivered to your address, anywhere in the world. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Dussehra and Vijaydashami the same?

Yes, both are the same. It is the 10th day after the Navaratri celebration, and marks the day of victory of good over bad.

When is Dussehra in 2025?

According to the Hindu calendar, Dussehra is on the 2nd of October in the year 2025.

What gods are worshiped during Navratri?

People worship the nine forms of Goddess Durga, which are Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kaalratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidatri during Navratri.

Does The Desi Food deliver puja items to Singapore for Dussehra?

Yes, we deliver to more than 80 countries across the globe, including Singapore, Oman, Australia, and Canada.