Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated across India with great enthusiasm and devotion. The festival marks the victory of good over evil, commemorating Lord Rama's triumph over the demon king Ravana after a fierce battle. Dussehra falls on the tenth day (Dashami) of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Ashwin (September-October), concluding the nine-day festival of Navratri.

The festival celebrates multiple legends from Hindu mythology. The most prominent is the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of righteousness (dharma) over evil (adharma). In different regions, Dussehra also celebrates Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura, emphasizing the power of the divine feminine. The festival is marked by the burning of Ravana's effigy, symbolizing the destruction of evil and negative forces.

Dussehra is celebrated with great fervor across India, with regional variations in customs and traditions. The festival brings communities together for grand celebrations, processions, and performances of the Ramlila (dramatic reenactment of Rama's life). It is a time of joy, celebration, and reflection on the eternal battle between good and evil, encouraging people to overcome their inner demons and embrace righteousness in their lives.

Dussehra holds deep spiritual significance as it represents the eternal victory of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. The festival teaches that no matter how powerful evil forces may seem, they will ultimately be defeated by righteousness and truth. It serves as a reminder to individuals to overcome their inner weaknesses, negative thoughts, and evil tendencies through spiritual practice and devotion.

The burning of Ravana's effigy symbolizes the destruction of the ten heads of evil: Kama (lust), Krodha (anger), Moha (attachment), Lobha (greed), Mada (pride), Matsarya (envy), Ahankara (ego), Manas (mind), Buddhi (intellect), and Chitta (will). This ritual reminds devotees to eliminate these negative qualities from their lives and cultivate positive virtues like truth, compassion, and righteousness.

Dussehra also marks the beginning of new ventures and important activities. It is considered highly auspicious to start new businesses, begin education, or undertake significant journeys on this day. The festival inspires people to take on challenges with courage and determination, knowing that good will ultimately prevail. It also emphasizes the importance of community celebration and coming together to celebrate shared values and beliefs.

• Burning effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna, symbolizing the destruction of evil forces
• Performing Shami Puja - worshipping the Shami tree and exchanging its leaves as a symbol of gold and victory
• Worshipping weapons, tools, and vehicles (Ayudha Puja) as a mark of respect for instruments of work and protection
• Concluding Navratri fasting and breaking the fast with a special meal
• Performing Aparajita Puja - worshipping Goddess Aparajita for victory and success
• Watching or participating in Ramlila performances depicting the life and victory of Lord Rama
• Exchanging Shami leaves with family and friends as a symbol of gold and prosperity
• Visiting temples and seeking blessings for success and victory in endeavors
• Applying tilak with vermillion and offering prayers to elders and deities
• Celebrating with processions, music, and community gatherings

Various sacred items are offered during Dussehra puja:

• Flowers: Red and yellow flowers like marigolds, roses, and lotus are offered as symbols of victory and devotion
• Fruits: Seasonal fruits like bananas, apples, pomegranates, and coconuts are offered with reverence
• Sweets: Traditional sweets like ladoos, barfis, and halwa are prepared and offered as prasad
• Shami Leaves: Shami tree leaves are worshipped and exchanged as a symbol of gold, prosperity, and victory
• Weapons and Tools: Traditional weapons, work tools, and vehicles are worshipped as a mark of respect (Ayudha Puja)
• Incense and Lamps: Fragrant incense sticks, ghee lamps, and camphor are used to create a divine atmosphere and purify the environment