Why Do We Celebrate Dussehra

India is a land of many festivals, and each one carries a story that teaches us something. Among them, Dussehra is a very special festival. It is celebrated with joy and devotion in every part of the country. People gather in large grounds, watch plays, and light big effigies of Ravana. But have you ever wondered, why do we celebrate Dussehra? Let’s find out the meaning behind this beautiful festival.

Why Do We Celebrate Dussehra?

The story of Dussehra goes back to the time of Lord Rama. Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, kidnapped Sita, the wife of Lord Rama. To rescue her, Lord Rama fought a great battle with Ravana. With the help of Hanuman and his army, Rama finally defeated Ravana.

This victory showed that no matter how strong evil may look, truth and goodness always win in the end. Dussehra reminds us of this lesson every year. Across India, people perform Ram Leela—a play showing the life of Rama, ending with the defeat of Ravana. The festival teaches us to never lose faith in goodness, even when challenges seem big.

Dussehra in 2025 – Date and Timings

In 2025, Dussehra will be celebrated on 2nd October, Thursday. It comes right after the nine days of Navratri, which will end on 1st October.

• Dussehra Date: 2nd October 2025

• Dashami Tithi Begins: 1st October 2025, 7:01 pm

• Dashami Tithi Ends: 2nd October 2025, 7:10 pm

• Vijay Muhurat: 2:09 pm to 2:56 pm

People believe that starting anything new on this day brings happiness and success.

The Story of Goddess Durga and Dussehra

Dussehra is not only about Lord Rama. In another legend, it is also linked to Goddess Durga. Long ago, a demon named Mahishasura troubled both heaven and earth. The gods prayed for help, and Goddess Durga appeared to fight him. After nine days of battle, she defeated Mahishasura on the tenth day.

That is why Dussehra is also a day to honor the strength of the goddess. It shows us that courage, when guided by truth, can overcome even the greatest difficulties.

Spiritual Meaning of Dussehra Festival

Beyond the stories, Dussehra carries a deep message for our daily lives. When we see Ravana’s effigy burn, it is not only about an old tale—it is also about us. Each of Ravana’s ten heads stands for human weaknesses like ego, anger, greed, and pride.

By burning Ravana, we are reminded to burn these negative thoughts inside us. The festival teaches us to look within, become kinder, and choose the path of goodness.

Dussehra Celebrations Across India

Dussehra is celebrated in many unique ways across the country.

• North India: Ram Leela plays Ravana Dahan in big fairs.

• West Bengal: Dussehra marks the end of Durga Puja, with idols of the goddess immersed in rivers.

• Karnataka (Mysore): A grand royal procession with decorated elephants and cultural shows.

• Maharashtra: People exchange gold-colored leaves (apta leaves) as a blessing for wealth and happiness.

• Gujarat: Traditional Garba dance and folk music fill the nights of Navratri, ending with Dussehra celebrations.

Though the ways are different, the heart of the festival remains the same—victory of good over evil.

Ravana Dahan: Symbol of Dussehra

The most famous part of Dussehra is the burning of Ravana’s effigy, known as Ravana Dahan. Along with him, effigies of his brother Kumbhakarna and son Meghnath are also burnt. Fireworks light up the sky as people cheer.

This act is not just entertainment. It is a reminder that arrogance and pride, like Ravana’s ten heads, can destroy us. By burning them, people promise to live a life of honesty, humility, and truth.

Why Dussehra Is Auspicious for New Beginnings

Dussehra is also seen as a lucky day to start something new. Many people buy cars, gold, or even open new shops on this day. Families choose it as the right time to begin important tasks.

It is believed that anything started on Dussehra carries the blessing of divine energy. That is why it is called a festival of fresh starts and hope.

Conclusion

Dussehra is more than just a festival—it is a lesson that comes alive every year. It reminds us that no matter how big the darkness, light will always win. Whether we think of Lord Rama defeating Ravana or Goddess Durga defeating Mahishasura, the message is the same: truth and goodness never fail.

As we celebrate Dussehra, we also celebrate the strength inside us to rise above challenges and begin new journeys with hope and faith.

FAQs

1. Why is Dussehra called Vijayadashami?
Dussehra is called Vijayadashami because “Vijaya” means victory and “Dashami” means the tenth day. It marks the victory of good over evil on the tenth day of the lunar month.

2. When will Dussehra be celebrated in 2025?
Dussehra in 2025 will be celebrated on 2nd October, Thursday, right after the nine days of Navratri.

3. What is the main story behind Dussehra?
The main story is about Lord Rama defeating the demon king Ravana to rescue Sita. It shows that truth, courage, and goodness always win in the end.

4. How is Dussehra different in North and South India?
In North India, Ram Leela and Ravana Dahan are the highlights. In South India, especially Mysore, Dussehra is celebrated with grand processions, decorated elephants, and royal traditions.

5. Why do people burn Ravana on Dussehra?
People burn Ravana’s effigy to symbolize the end of evil and negative qualities like ego and greed. It reminds us to remove such weaknesses from our own lives.

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