What is Dussehra?
Dussehra, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is celebrated on the tenth day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Ashwin month. It marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, and simultaneously the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. It is observed as the culmination of Navratri — nine nights of worship.
Why is it observed?
Dussehra represents the triumph of dharma over adharma — good over evil. The burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna symbolises the destruction of the ten vices (das = ten, hara = defeat) that Ravana's ten heads represent: ego, anger, greed, attachment, lust, pride, jealousy, cruelty, selfishness, and injustice. In Bengal and eastern India, Vijaya Dashami marks the immersion of Durga idols after the five-day Durga Puja celebration.
How is it observed?
In North India, Ramlila performances depicting the Ramayana culminate on Dussehra with the burning of Ravana's effigy (Ravan Dahan). Weapons, vehicles, and tools are often worshipped (Ayudha Puja) on this day. In the south, books and instruments are worshipped as a mark of gratitude to learning. In Bengal, Vijaya Dashami marks the emotional farewell of Ma Durga with sindoor khela and idol immersion.
When does it occur?
Dussehra falls on the tenth tithi of Ashwin Shukla Paksha — typically in October, following the nine nights of Navratri.
Key Highlights
Ravan Dahan
The burning of Ravana's effigy — often 50–100 feet tall — is one of India's most spectacular public celebrations, symbolising the end of ego and evil.
Vijaya Dashami in Bengal
In West Bengal and the diaspora, Vijaya Dashami is the emotional farewell to Ma Durga after five days of elaborate Puja, marked by sindoor khela among women.
Ayudha Puja
On Vijaya Dashami, many Hindus — particularly in South India — worship their tools of trade, vehicles, instruments, and books as expressions of gratitude.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called Dussehra?
One interpretation is 'Dasha-Hara' — the defeat (hara) of ten (dasha), referring to the ten heads of Ravana. Another reading is 'Dus-Hara' — the day that removes (hara) ten types of sins and suffering.
Is Dussehra celebrated the same way across India?
No — regional traditions vary significantly. North India focuses on Ramlila and Ravan Dahan; Bengal on Durga Puja immersion (Vijaya Dashami); South India on Ayudha Puja, Mysore's grand procession, and worshipping books and instruments.