An Infographic on Dussehra, the Festival of Triumph
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of India's most significant festivals, celebrating the ultimate victory of good over evil. It's a day filled with deep symbolism, ancient stories, and vibrant community celebrations. This section provides a snapshot of the core principles of the festival.
It marks the victory of Dharma (righteousness) over Adharma (unrighteousness), reminding everyone that truth and goodness ultimately prevail.
On the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashvin, which typically falls in September or October. It is the culmination of the nine-day Navaratri festival.
The day celebrates two major triumphs: Lord Rama's defeat of the ten-headed demon king Ravana, and Goddess Durga's victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasur.
The foundations of Dussehra are built on two of Hinduism's most powerful stories. Below, we explore the climax of the Ramayana and the valor of Goddess Durga, both tales highlighting the inevitable downfall of evil in the face of divine power and righteousness.
The most widely recognized story is from the epic Ramayana. Dussehra commemorates the day Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, defeated the ten-headed demon king of Lanka, Ravana, who had abducted Rama's wife, Sita. After a monumental battle, Rama's victory symbolized the conquest of ego, injustice, and cruelty.
Each head represents a negative quality that was vanquished:
Kama (Lust)Krodha (Anger) Moha (Delusion)Lobha (Greed) Mada (Pride)Matsarya (Envy) Manas (Mind)Buddhi (Intellect) Chitta (Will)Ahamkara (Ego)
In many parts of India, particularly in the east and south, Vijayadashami celebrates Goddess Durga's victory over the shape-shifting buffalo demon, Mahishasur. Endowed with a boon of near-invincibility, he created chaos across the universe. The gods combined their energies to create Durga, who, after a nine-night battle (Navaratri), finally slayed him on the tenth day. This victory celebrates the power of Shakti (divine feminine energy).
The Goddess and her divine mount, the lion.
Across the country, Dussehra comes alive with a multitude of colorful and spirited traditions. These rituals are not just celebrations; they are public expressions of faith and culture, bringing communities together to reenact ancient stories and rejoice in their shared heritage.
Towering effigies of Ravana, his brother, and son are set ablaze in dramatic fashion, symbolizing the destruction of evil.
Elaborate folk plays depicting scenes from the Ramayana are performed for several nights, enchanting audiences of all ages.
A day for worshipping one's tools and implements of trade ("shastras"), a tradition observed by soldiers, artisans, and farmers.
Grand processions carry idols of deities through the streets, accompanied by music, dancing, and devotional songs.
While the spirit of Dussehra is universal, its expression is wonderfully diverse across India's regions. Some celebrations are famous for their royal grandeur, others for their unique folk traditions. This chart highlights the scale and distinctiveness of Dussehra festivities in some of the most renowned locations.
Dussehra is the culmination of a ten-day period of worship and fasting. The first nine nights, known as Navaratri, are dedicated to celebrating the nine forms of Goddess Durga. This timeline highlights the progression, leading to the final day of triumph.
The first three days are dedicated to Durga in her fierce forms (Kali, Lakshmi, Saraswati) to destroy impurities and vices. It begins with the Ghatasthapana ritual.
The focus shifts to worshipping the Goddess as Lakshmi, the bestower of spiritual wealth and prosperity, bringing a more gentle and abundant quality to the festivities.
The final days of Navaratri are dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the embodiment of knowledge and art. This period culminates in Maha Navami, the ninth day, with special pujas and rituals.
The grand finale. It is the day of victory, marking the triumph of good over evil. This is when the effigies are burnt, processions take place, and the festival reaches its joyous peak.