Unveiling the Significance of Dussehra: A Celebration of Virtue’s Triumph
The tenth day of Navaratri is marked by Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami. It symbolises the triumph of virtue over evil. Let’s explore its date, background, importance, and celebration.
Significance of Dussehra
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is observed on the 10th day of the Ashwin month in the Hindu lunar calendar, which is the seventh day according to the Hindu solar calendar. It is a day of great festivity among devotees of Goddess Durga, following the nine days of Navaratri.
While the term “Dussehra” is more commonly used in Northern Indian states and Karnataka, “Vijayadashami” is popular in West Bengal. Bengali communities celebrate by immersing idols of Goddess Durga in holy water bodies, bidding a grand farewell.
Additionally, across the nation, Ram Leelas (depictions of Lord Ram’s life) are organized, grand fairs are held, and a large number of people gather to witness the burning of effigies of the demon king Ravana.
Dussehra 2023: Date and Auspicious Timings
Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, falls on the 24th of October this year. According to the Drik Panchang, the auspicious Vijaya Muhurat begins at 1:58 PM and concludes at 2:43 PM, with the afternoon puja time spanning from 1:13 PM to 3:28 PM.
The Dashami Tithi commences on the 23rd of October at 5:44 PM and concludes on the 24th of October at 3:14 PM. The Shravan Nakshatra prevails from 6:44 PM on the 22nd of October to 5:14 PM on the 23rd of October.
History and Significance of Dussehra
Dussehra falls on the tenth day of the bright half of Ashwin, according to the Hindu lunar calendar, just a day after Mahanavami or at the conclusion of Sharadiya Navaratri. It It symbolises the victory of good over evil. Hindu mythology claims that Lord Ram slew the evil king Ravana in Lanka on this day. Another myth claims that Goddess Durga defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura following a nine-day, ferocious struggle.
Dussehra Celebrations
Dussehra also marks the commencement of the Diwali festivities. It occurs twenty days before the festival of lights, signifying the return of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshman to their kingdom. The festival of Dussehra imparts the moral lesson of triumph of light over darkness and virtue over ignorance. On this day, people offer prayers for prosperity and good health. Moreover, in certain regions of the country, the worship of the Shami tree holds great significance, as it is believed that Arjuna concealed his weapons within its branches during his period of exile.
Dussehra Celebrations: Regional Customs
In Northern India and some other parts of the country, Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, is celebrated by burning effigies of Ravana, along with those of his valiant brother Kumbhakarna and the mighty warrior son Meghnad. The Ramleela, a dramatic rendition of Lord Ram’s story, is enacted throughout the nine days of Navaratri, concluding on the tenth day with the slaying of Ravana. Dussehra also symbolizes the liberation from sins or negative attributes, as Ravana’s ten heads represent various vices.
In Bengal, devotees immerse idols of Goddess Durga in water bodies and bid her a grand farewell. They also wish for her return the next year, keeping a watchful eye on all evils and sorrows.
Happy Dussehra Greetings 2023
- Best wishes for Dussehra in 2023! Let us rejoice and be grateful as we commemorate this historic anniversary and the triumph of good over evil. Send your loved ones these greetings:
- “Wishing you the power to conquer success, wisdom, and any challenges that come your way. Heartfelt Dussehra wishes to you and all your family members!”
- “On the occasion of Vijayadashami, may peace accompany every step you take, and may love guide your every choice.”
- “Warmest greetings for Vijayadashami! May this auspicious festival bring light, happiness, and prosperity to your life.”
- Wishing you success and triumph on this Vijayadashami. “Happy Dussehra 2023!“
Happy Vijayadashami WhatsApp Status 2023
- On this auspicious day, let us celebrate the triumph of good over evil and seek blessings from Lord Ram. Share this message and greetings with your loved ones to spread positivity:
- “On this special day of Vijayadashami, let’s gather the strength to conquer the demons within and let our inner light shine. Happy Vijayadashami!”
Table of Contents
FAQ
Q1: What is the Significance of Dussehra/Vijayadashami?
- A1: Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, marks the tenth day of Navaratri and symbolizes the victory of virtue over evil. It holds great festivity among devotees of Goddess Durga, concluding the nine days of Navaratri.
Q2: When is Dussehra 2023 and What are the Auspicious Timings for Observance?
- A2: Dussehra falls on the 24th of October in 2023. According to the Drik Panchang, the auspicious Vijaya Muhurat starts at 1:58 PM and ends at 2:43 PM, with afternoon puja timings spanning from 1:13 PM to 3:28 PM.
Q3: What is the History and Significance of Dussehra?
- A3: Dussehra signifies the victory of good over evil and is observed on the tenth day of the bright half of Ashwin in the Hindu lunar calendar. It is believed that Lord Ram defeated the evil king Ravana on this day. Another myth narrates Goddess Durga’s triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura after a nine-day battle.
Q4: How is Dussehra Celebrated?
- A4: Dussehra marks the commencement of Diwali festivities, signifying the return of Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshman to their kingdom. It imparts the moral lesson of triumph of light over darkness and virtue over ignorance. People offer prayers for prosperity and good health, and in certain regions, the worship of the Shami tree is significant.
Q5: What are the Regional Customs and Celebrations for Dussehra/Vijayadashami?
- A5: In Northern India and some other parts of the country, Dussehra is celebrated by burning effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and son Meghnad. The Ramleela, a dramatic rendition of Lord Ram’s story, is enacted. In Bengal, devotees bid farewell to idols of Goddess Durga by immersing them in water bodies, expressing a wish for her return the next year.
