Dussehra (Vijayadashmi) Festival 2019: Date, History, Legends and Significance

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Dussehra or Vijayadashmi is a popular Hindu festival of India celebrated in the Hindu calendar month of Ashvin. It also marks the end of the Navratri festival. The festival signifies the victory of good over evil and is celebrated throughout India by many cultures with ritualistic variations. It also sets the stage for one of the Hindu’s most significant festivals – Deepawali or Diwali, which is celebrated 20 days after Vijayadashmi.

Dussehra festival is celebrated with reverence to two of the most significant Hindu deities – Goddess Durga and Lord Rama. Some cultures venerate different incarnations of Goddess Durga like – Saraswati, Lakshmi, etc, as per their faith and belief. Nevertheless, the festival is largely celebrated as symbolic of the victory of good over evil.

Dussehra 2019

Vijayadashmi festival in 2019 will be celebrated on Tuesday, 8^th October 2019. Rituals like Shami puja and Aparajita puja should be performed during the Aparahna time – 13:24 Hrs to 15:44 Hrs on 8^th October 2019.

Meaning of Dussehra/Vijayadashmi

Some religious specialists believe that the word Dussehra is obtained by joining two Sanskrit words – “Dus” and “Ahara”. Former means 10^th and the latter – day. Therefore “Dussehra” implies 10^th day or the 10^th day of victory. Another theory about the derivation of name “Dussehra” is that it is formed by combining “Dush” and “Har”; former meaning evil and the latter means to destroy or remove. Thus implying, Dussehra as a day which destroys evil.

“Vijayadashmi” is formed by combining two words – “Vijaya” and “Dashmi”. “Vijaya” means “victory” and “Dashmi” means “10^th (tenth)”, hence implying, Dussehra as the 10^th day of victory.

When is Vijayadashmi Celebrated?

Vijayadashmi, also known as Dussehra, is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, which typically falls in September or October of the Gregorian calendar. The exact date of Vijayadashmi varies each year based on the lunar calendar, as it is determined by the Hindu lunar calendar and the timing of the festival of Navaratri, which precedes it. Vijayadashmi is celebrated with great enthusiasm and marks the victory of good over evil, symbolized by Lord Rama’s triumph over the demon king Ravana in the epic Hindu mythology of Ramayana.

Mythology

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashmi, holds significant mythology in Hindu culture, primarily associated with the epic of Ramayana. The festival commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Here is a brief mythology of the Dussehra festival:

The Epic of Ramayana: The central story of Dussehra revolves around the Hindu epic, Ramayana. According to the epic, Lord Rama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, was exiled from his kingdom along with his wife Sita and his loyal brother Lakshmana. During their exile, Sita was abducted by the demon king Ravana, who took her to his kingdom of Lanka.
Rama’s Battle with Ravana: Lord Rama, along with an army of monkeys and allies, waged a fierce battle against Ravana to rescue Sita. This battle lasted for ten days, culminating in a final confrontation on the tenth day, known as Vijayadashmi.
The Defeat of Ravana: On the tenth day of the battle, Lord Rama, with the blessings of the goddess Durga, who is believed to have provided him with divine weapons, defeated Ravana. Rama’s victory signified the triumph of righteousness and virtue over the forces of evil.
Burning of Ravana’s Effigies: To commemorate this victory, effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and son Meghanada (Indrajit) are traditionally burned in public gatherings across India on Dussehra. This symbolizes the destruction of evil and the restoration of dharma (righteousness).
Spiritual Significance: Dussehra also holds spiritual significance as it signifies the eradication of the ten-headed demon Ravana, representing the ten vices or weaknesses in human nature, including pride, anger, greed, lust, and ego. The festival encourages people to overcome these negative qualities and embrace righteousness.

In addition to the Ramayana narrative, Dussehra is also celebrated for different reasons in various regions of India. For example, in some parts of the country, it marks the end of the Durga Puja festival, while in others, it celebrates the victory of the Pandavas over the Kauravas in the Mahabharata.

History of Vijayadashmi

Vijayadashmi has a rich historical background deeply rooted in Indian culture and mythology. The festival’s history is associated with several significant events and legends. Here’s a brief overview of the history of Vijayadashmi:

Victory of Lord Rama: The most famous and widely celebrated story associated with Vijayadashmi is the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, as narrated in the ancient Indian epic, Ramayana. According to the epic, Lord Rama, accompanied by his wife Sita and brother Lakshmana, embarked on a 14-year exile. During their exile, Sita was abducted by Ravana. In his quest to rescue Sita, Lord Rama, with the help of an army of monkeys and divine blessings, defeated Ravana on the tenth day of the battle, which is celebrated as Vijayadashmi. Rama’s victory symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.
Durga Puja: In the eastern part of India, Vijayadashmi marks the culmination of the Durga Puja festival. It celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The festival typically spans nine days, during which elaborate idols of the goddess Durga are worshipped with great fervor. On the tenth day (Vijayadashmi), the idols are immersed in water bodies, signifying the goddess’s return to her celestial abode.
Pandavas and the Mahabharata: In some parts of India, Vijayadashmi is associated with the Pandavas, the central characters of the Mahabharata. It is believed that the Pandavas, after spending thirteen years in exile and one year incognito, retrieved their weapons hidden in a Shami tree on this day. They then revealed their true identity and began their fight for justice against the Kauravas.
Celebration of Goddess Saraswati: In certain regions, Vijayadashmi is celebrated as the culmination of Navratri, the festival dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and learning. On this day, children are initiated into learning and writing, and the goddess is worshipped for her blessings.
Symbolic Victory of Truth: Vijayadashmi is celebrated as a day of moral and ethical victory, signifying the triumph of truth, righteousness, and justice over falsehood and evil. People are encouraged to reflect on their actions and strive for virtuous lives.

Today, Vijayadashmi is celebrated with grand processions, the burning of effigies of Ravana, cultural programs, and various traditional rituals across India. It serves as a reminder of the timeless values of courage, truth, and virtue, inspiring people to lead righteous lives.

Ancient and Modern Variations

During ancient days the festival lacked the modern day splendor and festivities. During its inception days the festival of Vijayadashmi was largely a festival observed by religious ascetics and Brahmins. Sundar kanda recitation and Yagnas were performed; a custom which is still carried on in houses and temples till today.

The Dussehra festivities got more popular and took the form of a large community fair, with the start of Ramleela. Today, almost every state of India displays festive fervor during Dussehra and people belonging to all age group and various communities enthrallingly take part in the festivities. The custom of burning the effigies of Ravana is also recently introduced in the 20^th century and the custom was absent before.

Also read: Diwali Festival

Vijayadashmi Celebrations

Vijayadashmi is celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor throughout India. The celebrations vary from one region to another, but certain customs and traditions are observed across the country. Here’s a glimpse of the typical Vijayadashmi celebrations:

Ravana Dahan (Burning of Ravana’s Effigy): One of the most iconic aspects of Vijayadashmi celebrations is the dramatic reenactment of Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana. Enormous effigies of Ravana, along with those of his brother Kumbhakarna and son Meghnad, are erected in public places. In the evening, these effigies are set on fire with fireworks, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This tradition draws large crowds, and the spectacle of Ravana Dahan is a major highlight of the festival.
Ram Leela Performances: In many parts of India, especially in the northern states, elaborate theatrical performances called “Ram Leela” are organized. These performances depict scenes from the life of Lord Rama, including his exile, the abduction of Sita, and the battle with Ravana. Ram Leela acts as a source of entertainment and also educates people about the epic Ramayana.
Worship of Goddess Durga: In West Bengal and other eastern states, Vijayadashmi coincides with the culmination of the Durga Puja festival. The beautifully crafted idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in rivers or water bodies, accompanied by grand processions and cultural events.
Aptaputra Procession: In the state of Gujarat, Vijayadashmi is celebrated by the Jain community as Aptaputra Vrat. It involves a grand procession featuring the Tirthankara’s idols and spiritual leaders. People participate in religious ceremonies and seek blessings.
Education and Learning: In some regions, Vijayadashmi is observed as “Vidyarambham” or “Aksharabhyasam,” a day when young children are introduced to the world of education. Children are initiated into reading and writing, usually with the help of a guru or priest. Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, is revered on this day.
Distribution of Sweets: As with many Indian festivals, the sharing of sweets and festive meals is an integral part of Vijayadashmi celebrations. Families and communities come together to enjoy special dishes and traditional sweets.
Prayers and Reflection: Many people visit temples and offer prayers to seek blessings for a prosperous and virtuous life. Vijayadashmi is also a time for introspection, where individuals reflect on their actions and commit to leading ethical lives.
Cultural Events: Cultural programs, music, dance performances, and fairs are organized in various parts of the country. These events showcase the diverse cultural heritage of India and add to the festive spirit.

Significance of Vijayadashmi

Vijayadashmi holds great significance in Hindu culture and traditions. Here are some of the key aspects that make Vijayadashmi significant:

Victory of Good Over Evil: The foremost significance of Vijayadashmi is the celebration of the triumph of good over evil. It marks the day when Lord Rama, the embodiment of righteousness and virtue, defeated the demon king Ravana, who symbolizes evil and arrogance, as per the epic Ramayana. This victory signifies that ultimately, goodness and truth prevail over wickedness and falsehood.
Auspicious Beginnings: Vijayadashmi is considered an auspicious day to begin new ventures, ventures, and endeavors. Many people initiate their children into the world of education on this day, symbolizing the start of their journey toward knowledge and wisdom.
Goddess Durga’s Victory: In parts of India, particularly West Bengal, Vijayadashmi coincides with the conclusion of the Durga Puja festival. It is a day when devotees bid farewell to Goddess Durga, who has been worshipped during Navaratri. The immersion of her idol in water is believed to send her back to her celestial abode. This event symbolizes the victory of the goddess over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
Cultural Unity: Vijayadashmi brings people from diverse cultural backgrounds together. It is celebrated with regional variations and customs across India, yet the core theme of victory over evil remains consistent. This unity in diversity highlights India’s rich cultural tapestry.
Religious Observance: Devotees visit temples and participate in prayers and rituals to seek blessings for a prosperous and virtuous life. It’s a time for spiritual reflection and renewal of faith.
Symbol of Morality: The epic Ramayana, which is central to Vijayadashmi, is not merely a historical or mythological account but also a guide for moral and ethical living. The characters and events in the Ramayana serve as moral lessons, and Vijayadashmi reinforces these teachings.
Educational Initiatives: Vijayadashmi is a day when young children are introduced to the world of letters and learning. It is considered an auspicious time for students to begin their formal education, often marked by the initiation of writing their first alphabet.
Community Bonding: The festivities of Vijayadashmi bring families and communities together. People exchange sweets, visit each other, and participate in cultural events, reinforcing social bonds.
Cultural Heritage: Vijayadashmi is a celebration of India’s cultural heritage, with diverse forms of art, music, dance, and drama being performed across the country.

Connection between Vijayadashmi and Durga Puja

The connection between Vijayadashmi and Durga Puja lies in their timing and the shared theme of triumph over evil.

Timing: Durga Puja is a major Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the Indian state of West Bengal and other parts of India. It typically spans over nine days, known as Navaratri, leading up to the tenth day, which is Vijayadashmi.
Shared Theme: Both Durga Puja and Vijayadashmi revolve around the theme of the victory of good over evil. In Durga Puja, the goddess Durga is worshipped for her triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. Vijayadashmi commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana in the epic Ramayana.

The connection becomes evident as Durga Puja concludes on Vijayadashmi. On this day, idols of Goddess Durga, which are installed in elaborately decorated pandals (temporary structures), are immersed in water. This immersion symbolizes the departure of the goddess after her victory and is akin to bidding her farewell. It’s a significant and emotional moment for devotees who participate in processions to immerse the idols.

In essence, Vijayadashmi serves as the grand finale of the Durga Puja festival, marking the culmination of the worship of Goddess Durga and celebrating the victory of good (the goddess) over the forces of evil (Mahishasura). The combination of these two festivals creates a spiritually charged and culturally vibrant atmosphere, particularly in West Bengal and other regions where Durga Puja is celebrated with great fervor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Dussehra (Vijayadashmi)

What is Vijayadashmi?

Vijayadashmi, also known as Dussehra, is a Hindu festival celebrated in India to commemorate the victory of good over evil. It marks the day when Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana.

When is Vijayadashmi celebrated?

Vijayadashmi is typically celebrated in the Hindu month of Ashwin, which falls in September or October of the Gregorian calendar. It is observed on the tenth day (Dashami) of the bright half of the lunar month.

What is the significance of Vijayadashmi?

Vijayadashmi signifies the triumph of good over evil, as depicted in the epic Ramayana when Lord Rama vanquished Ravana. It also symbolizes the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura in some regions.

How is Vijayadashmi celebrated?

Vijayadashmi is celebrated with great enthusiasm and includes processions, plays depicting the Ramayana, the burning of effigies of Ravana, prayers, and cultural events. It's also a day for educational initiation of young children.

What are the customs associated with Vijayadashmi?

Customs include visiting temples, exchanging sweets, giving offerings to the gods, wearing new clothes, and participating in community gatherings.

What is the connection between Vijayadashmi and Durga Puja?

In some parts of India, particularly West Bengal, Vijayadashmi coincides with the conclusion of the Durga Puja festival, where idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in water, symbolizing her victory over evil.

Is Vijayadashmi a public holiday in India?

Vijayadashmi is not a national public holiday, but it is widely celebrated across India, with many offices and schools remaining closed in certain regions.

What are the moral lessons associated with Vijayadashmi?

Vijayadashmi teaches moral lessons from the epic Ramayana, emphasizing the importance of truth, righteousness, and the consequences of evil actions.

Are there regional variations in Vijayadashmi celebrations?

Yes, Vijayadashmi is celebrated with regional variations and customs across India. Each region may have its unique way of observing the festival while retaining the core theme of victory of good over evil.