Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is one of the prominent Hindu festivals. It symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. It falls on the 10th day of the Navaratri festival and stands for dharma or righteousness.
The festival honours Lord Rama's victory over demon king Ravana, described in a new Book called the Ramayana. Detail and vivid recreations of the play are even further enacted, known as Ramlilla, all over India.
On Dussehra, many clay models of Ravana and his two sons, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran, are set on fire. This bow must be understood as eliminating the evil forces and the victory of the righteous.
The Dussehra festival is a time of joy and celebration. People dress in bright clothing, hold processions, and sing and dance to culturally appropriate rhythms. The air is filled with happiness, a testament to the joyous nature of the occasion.
A significant aspect of Dussehra is the victory of good over evil. This includes burning effigies of Ravana and appreciating goddess Durga's victory over the Demon Mahishasura. This aspect of Dussehra highlights the power and grace of the divine feminine.
This is the best time to start something new and reflect on issues affecting society. It stimulates one to fight one’s own battle and integrate the themes of bravery, justice, and truth into one's own life.