A festival that unites tradition, devotion, and victory. Here is your quick guide to the festival’s date, time, and meaning
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Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a Hindu festival celebrated annually to commemorate the victory of good over evil. This festival is celebrated as per the Hindu calendar on Dashami tithi of the Shukla paksha in the month of Ashwina. In 2025, it falls on Thursday October 2.
According to mythology, Dussehra is celebrated for the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana after a ten day fierce battle. Ravana, the king of Lanka, was said to have abducted Maa Sita, Lord Rama’s wife, during their 14-year long exile. Lord Ram, along with Lord Lakshmana, Lord Hanuman and the Vanara Sena had fought the battle to rescue Maa Sita, and hence the name Vijayadashami. It symbolises the triumph of good over evil, a reminder that righteousness and truth ultimately prevail despite obstacles.The burning of Ravana’s effigy each year is not just a spectacle, but a symbolic act of destroying arrogance, greed and falsehood, reinforcing the values of humility and virtue in everyday life.
Another reason this festival is celebrated is that it marks the day when Maa Durga triumphed over the demon Mahishasura. This legend highlights the divine feminine power and its role in restoring balance to the universe. On this day, the immersion of Goddess Durga’s idol (also called Durga Visarjan) takes place through vibrant and devotional processions, marking Maa Durga’s return back to the heavenly abode. In many regions, women exchange gifts and sweets on Vijayadashami, signifying prosperity and goodwill, while families come together to celebrate the start of new beginnings with blessings from the Goddess.
Every state in India celebrates Dussehra differently. In West Bengal, Vijayadashami is celebrated with ‘Sindoor Khela’ and ‘Dhunuchi’ dance. In many parts of northern India, there is Ramlila performance, which depicts Lord Rama’s struggle against Ravana, followed by Ravana Dahan (symbolic act of burning Ravana’s effigy). Meanwhile in states like Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, Shami Puja symbolises the victory of the Pandava’s over the Kauravas. In south and western parts of India, devotees perform Ayudha Puja, wherein they honor their tools, vehicles, books or source of knowledge reflecting gratitude for all that sustains life and livelihood.
Dussehra is followed by Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights.
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