Significance
Dussehra marks the victory of good over evil—Rama over Ravana and Durga over Mahishasura. It is the tenth day of Navratri and is auspicious for new beginnings.
Mythology & Legend
According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama defeated the ten-headed demon Ravana on this day after a long battle, rescuing Sita. In the Markandeya Purana tradition, Goddess Durga defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura after nine nights of battle. Vijayadashami also celebrates the day Arjuna retrieved his weapons and the Pandavas ended their exile.
Rituals & Observances
- At dawn, perform Shami tree worship and offer its leaves to one another.
- In North India, attend or witness Ravana effigy burning (Ravan Dahan).
- Perform Ayudha Puja—worship tools, weapons, books, and vehicles.
- Start new learning (Vidyarambham in the South) or business ventures.
- Visit relatives and exchange greetings and sweets.
Sacred Mantras
ॐ श्री रामाय नमः
oṃ śrī rāmāya namaḥ
Salutations to Lord Rama
Traditional Foods
- ●Prasad from Navratri
- ●Sundal (South)
- ●Jalebi and fafda (Gujarat)
- ●Traditional sweets
Regional Variations
North India(दशहरा)
Ramlila and Ravan Dahan
South India(ವಿಜಯದಶಮಿ)
Vidyarambham, Ayudha Puja
East India(দশহরা)
Durga Visarjan
West India(विजयादशमी)
Simollanghan (crossing border)
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Attend or watch Ramlila if possible
- ✓Worship tools and books
- ✓Start new learning or business
- ✓Wear festive clothes
Don'ts
- ✗Avoid inauspicious activities
- ✗Do not skip the significance of the day