When is Dussehra? Dates, Significance & Celebrations

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated across India and by the Indian diaspora worldwide. The question, "Dussehra kab hai?" (When is Dussehra?) is a common one as people eagerly anticipate this auspicious occasion. This article delves into the dates, significance, and vibrant celebrations associated with Dussehra, providing a comprehensive understanding of this joyous festival.

Understanding Dussehra: A Celebration of Good Over Evil

Dussehra marks the triumph of good over evil. It commemorates Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana and also celebrates Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura. These narratives symbolize the eternal battle between righteousness and wickedness, and the ultimate victory of virtue.

Dussehra Date: A Lunar Calendar Connection

The date of Dussehra is determined by the Hindu lunar calendar. It falls on the tenth day (Dashami) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the month of Ashwin. Because of the lunar calendar, the Gregorian date of Dussehra varies each year. To know precisely "Dussehra kab hai?" for any given year, it’s best to consult a Hindu calendar or a reliable online source. Typically, Dussehra falls in September or October.

Historical and Mythological Significance

The story of Lord Rama's victory over Ravana is central to Dussehra. The epic Ramayana narrates how Rama, with the help of Hanuman and his army, waged war against Ravana to rescue his wife, Sita, who had been abducted. After a fierce battle lasting ten days, Rama finally defeated Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. This victory is celebrated on Dussehra.

Simultaneously, Dussehra also celebrates Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura. According to Hindu mythology, Mahishasura, a powerful demon, threatened the gods. Unable to defeat him, the gods invoked Goddess Durga, who fought him for nine nights and finally vanquished him on the tenth day. These nine nights are celebrated as Navaratri, culminating in Dussehra.

Dussehra Celebrations Across India

Dussehra celebrations vary across different regions of India, reflecting the country's diverse culture and traditions.

North India: Ramlila and Ravan Dahan

In North India, Dussehra is often celebrated with the enactment of Ramlila, a dramatic representation of the Ramayana. These performances, often lasting for several days, culminate on Dussehra with the burning of effigies of Ravana, his son Meghnad, and brother Kumbhakarna. This event, known as Ravan Dahan, is a spectacular sight, symbolizing the destruction of evil.

West India: Garba and Dandiya Raas

In Gujarat and other parts of West India, Navaratri is celebrated with great fervor through traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya Raas. People dress in colorful attire and dance to devotional music dedicated to Goddess Durga. These celebrations continue until Dussehra.

South India: Bommai Golu and Ayudha Puja

In South India, Dussehra is celebrated with Bommai Golu, the display of dolls and figurines, often depicting mythological scenes. Ayudha Puja is also performed, where tools, equipment, and vehicles are worshipped. This ritual is a way of expressing gratitude for the instruments that aid in one's livelihood.

East India: Durga Puja

In West Bengal and other parts of East India, Dussehra coincides with Durga Puja, the most significant festival of the year. Elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are erected to house idols of Goddess Durga, and the festival is celebrated with music, dance, and cultural performances. The immersion of the idols on the last day, known as Vijayadashami, is a grand spectacle.

The Significance of Vijayadashami

Vijayadashami, the tenth day of Dussehra, is considered an auspicious day to start new ventures, projects, or journeys. It is believed that any