Dussehra 2023 : Why We Celebrate Dussehra Know About Date, History, Pooja, Significance
Dussehra, also recognized as Vijayadashami, stands as a pivotal Hindu celebration, fervently observed across diverse regions of India. This festive occasion signifies the victorious ascent of good over evil, fostering unity among people who gather to revel in its vibrant traditions and contemplate its deep-rooted historical and cultural importance. In this extensive guide, we will embark on a profound journey to unveil the intricate tapestry of Dussehra, delving into its history, customs, and myriad regional celebrations that distinguish this auspicious festival.
The Essence of Dussehra :
Dussehra, often referred to as Vijayadashami falls on the tenth day of Navratri, an auspicious Hindu festival celebrated over nine nights. It symbolizes the ultimate victory of righteousness over wickedness. Two prominent legends associated with this day are the defeat of the demon king Ravana by Lord Rama and the triumph of Maa Durga over the demon Mahishasura.
Vijayadashami holds a paramount place in the Hindu calendar, marked on the tenth day of Navratri. This festival carries profound mythological importance, symbolizing the triumphant conquest of good over evil. Two prominent legends associated with Dussehra are the epic battle of Lord Rama against the demon king Ravana and the triumph of Maa Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
Names and Variations :
While the term “Dussehra” is commonly used in North Indian states and Karnataka, “Vijayadashami” is more popular in West Bengal. In West Bengal, devotees mark this occasion by performing Durga Visarjan, immersing idols of Maa Durga in holy water bodies. Simultaneously, Ram Lila, a dramatic reenactment of Lord Rama’s story, takes place throughout the country. Fairs are organized on a grand scale, and people gather in large numbers to witness the burning of Ravan effigies.
Dussehra 2023 falls on October 24th. The Vijaya Muhurat, the most auspicious time for worship, starts at 1:58 pm and concludes at 2:43 pm. The afternoon Puja time extends from 1:13 pm to 3:28 pm. The Dashami Tithi, which represents the tenth day, begins on October 23 at 5:44 pm and ends on October 24 at 3:14 pm. The Shravana Nakshatra, considered a favorable celestial phase, spans from October 22 at 6:44 pm until October 23 at 5:14 pm.
Unveiling the History and Significance :
Vijayadashami finds its roots in the Shukla Paksha Dashmi during the month of Ashwin in the Hindu lunar calendar. It usually follows Maha Navami and concludes the nine-day-long Shardiya Navratri festival. The central theme of Vijayadashami is the victory of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana transpired on this day. Another legend narrates the fierce battle where Maa Durga emerged victorious over Mahishasura after nine days of combat.
Vijayadashami is not merely a day of celebration but holds deep historical and cultural significance in the Hindu tradition. The festival falls during the Shukla Paksha Dashmi in the month of Ashwin, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It follows Maha Navami and marks the culmination of Shardiya Navratri.
The central theme of Dussehra is the triumph of good over evil, a concept deeply ingrained in Hindu mythology. As mentioned earlier, the day symbolizes the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and Maa Durga’s conquest of Mahishasura. But the festival extends beyond these legends.
Dussehra also serves as a precursor to the grand Diwali celebrations. It commemorates the homecoming of Lord Rama, Maa Sita, and Lord Lakshman after their exile and the epic battle. The essence of the festival lies in spreading the message of good prevailing over evil and light conquering darkness. On this day, people come together to pray for prosperity and good health.
One fascinating aspect of Dussehra is the reverence for the Shami tree. In some parts of India, this tree holds great significance as it is believed that Arjun, one of the Pandavas, hid his weapons inside the Shami tree during his exile. Therefore, during Dussehra, people worship the Shami tree as a symbol of protection and strength.
Lord Rama’s Victory:
In the ancient epic, the Ramayana, Lord Rama, accompanied by his loyal brother Lakshman and devoted wife Sita, waged a fierce battle against the demon king Ravana. This battle culminated on the tenth day, now known as Dussehra, when Lord Rama vanquished Ravana and rescued Sita, symbolizing the victory of righteousness over evil.
Maa Durga’s Conquest :
Dussehra also holds significance in the worship of the divine feminine. Maa Durga, the goddess of strength and courage, fought a relentless battle against the demon Mahishasura for nine consecutive days. On the tenth day, she defeated Mahishasura, signifying the triumph of divine power over evil forces.
Dussehra falls on the tenth day of the month of Ashwin, according to the Hindu Luni-Solar Calendar. After the nine days of Navratri festivities, Dussehra serves as the grand finale, where people come together to celebrate the victory of good over evil.
It is worth noting that Dussehra is celebrated under different names in different regions. While North India and Karnataka refer to it as Dussehra, West Bengal prefers the name Vijayadashami. In Bengal, the celebrations are elevated with the tradition of Durga Visarjan, where they bid adieu to the idols of Maa Durga by immersing them in holy waters.
Dussehra 2023 Celebrations :
| Date | Dussehra will be celebrated on October 24, 2023. |
| Vijaya Muhurat | The auspicious Vijaya Muhurat for performing rituals starts at 1:58 pm and concludes at 2:43 pm. |
| Afternoon Puja Window | The afternoon Puja window is from 1:13 pm to 3:28 pm. |
| Dashami Tithi | he Dashami Tithi, marking the tenth day of the festival, begins on October 23 at 5:44 pm and ends on October 24 at 3:14 pm. |
| Shravana Nakshatra | The Shravana Nakshatra, a significant celestial event, commences on October 22 at 6:44 pm and concludes on October 23 at 5:14 pm. |
Dussehra goes beyond historical reflection and rituals it’s a time for jubilant celebrations and vibrant cultural festivities. The way Dussehra is observed varies from one region of India to another.
Dussehra Quotes :
1. Let’s celebrate the victory of good over evil on this auspicious day of Vijayadashami.
2. May the radiant spirit of Dussehra usher in happiness, serenity, and abundance into your life.
3. Vijayadashami serves as a poignant reminder that, despite the might of evil, goodness invariably prevails in the end.
4. On this Dussehra, may you conquer your inner demons and find the path to righteousness.
5. The significance of Vijayadashami lies in the triumph of truth over falsehood, good over evil.
6. May the divine blessings of Lord Rama always be with you. Happy Vijayadashami !
7. Vijayadashami teaches us that no matter how long the darkness persists, light will ultimately prevail.
8. As we burn the effigies of Ravana, may we also burn away our own vices and shortcomings. Happy Dussehra!
9. Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana serves as a powerful emblem of righteousness prevailing over unrighteousness.
10. May your Dussehra be brimming with joy, happiness, and the resounding victory of good over evil. Best wishes!
Vibrant Celebrations :
In North India and various other parts of the country, Dussehra or Vijayadashami is celebrated with the ceremonial burning of effigies, particularly that of Ravana, the brother of the Lanka King, Kumbhkaran, and the valiant warrior son of Ravana, Meghnad. Ramlila, a theatrical enactment of Lord Rama’s life, is performed over all nine days of Navratri and culminates with the defeat of Ravana on the tenth day. Vijayadashami symbolizes the eradication of sins or negative qualities, with Ravana’s ten heads representing ten undesirable traits.
Frequently Asked Questions :
1. What is the significance of Dussehra?
Dussehra holds great significance as it marks the victory of good over evil. It symbolizes the triumph of righteousness and light over wickedness and darkness.
2. How is Vijayadashami celebrated in different parts of India?
Vijayadashami is celebrated with regional variations across India. In North India, it involves burning effigies of Ravana, while in West Bengal, Durga Visarjan is a prominent ritual. Ramlila performances and fairs are common throughout the country.
3. What is the importance of the Vijaya Muhurat during Dussehra?
The Vijaya Muhurat is considered the most auspicious time for worship during Dussehra. It is believed to be the moment when divine blessings are most accessible.
4. Are there any specific customs associated with Dussehra?
Yes, worshipping the Shami tree on Vijayadashami is a custom observed in some regions, as it is associated with Arjun’s concealment of weapons during his exile.
5. How does Dussehra relate to Diwali?
Dussehra marks the beginning of Diwali celebrations, signifying the return of Lord Rama, Maa Sita, and Lord Lakshman to their homeland, which is celebrated with the Festival of Lights.
Dussehra 2023 promises to be a day filled with history, significance, and epic celebrations. This is an occasion for individuals to unite, rejoicing in the triumph of good over evil, and engaging in a diverse array of customs and traditions that lend a unique charm to this festival. Make sure you don’t miss this exceptional celebration, where people come together in shared reverence for the victory of righteousness and the triumph of light over darkness.
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