Dussehra is one of the main Hindu festivals that is celebrated with great enthusiasm every year across India. This festival is a symbol of victory over the evil of truth, in which Lord Rama killed the demon king Ravan of Lanka. Every year, this festival is celebrated on the tenth day of the month of Ashwin, which falls immediately after Navratri. Dussehra is not just a religious festival, but also a literary or Sanskrit-related festival, which reminds us of the victory of Satya or Dharma.
Dussehra 2025 Date and Significance
When will Dussehra 2025 be celebrated?
Dussehra 2025 will be celebrated on 12 October, Sunday this year.
Dashami Tithi: It will start from 11 October, 07:15 PM in the night.
Dashami Tithi will end on: 12 October, 05:00 PM in the evening.
Performing Ravan Dahan and Vijayadashami rituals in the auspicious time paves the way to success.
History of Dussehra and why is it celebrated?
Story related to Ramayana
Ravan, being a demon, symbolized knowledge, power, and wisdom; however, his fear ultimately led to his destruction.
After Ram defeated Ravan, the festival of Vijayadashami was celebrated in Ayodhya. Since then, Dussehra has been celebrated as the festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
The battle of Maa Durga and Mahishasur
Another well-known story involves the battle between Goddess Durga and the demon Mahishasur. Mahishasur was a powerful demon who could not be killed by any man.
Lord Vishnu, Brahma, and Mahadev invoked Maa Durga with their powers. She fought with Mahishasur for nine days and ultimately killed him.
Navratri is celebrated as the battle of nine nights, and the killing of Mahishasura is celebrated as Vijayadashami on the tenth day.
How Dussehra is Celebrated Across India?
Northern India: In states like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab, Ramlila is organized during Dussehra. This event depicts the story of the Ramayana through drama, culminating in the burning of large effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Western India: In Maharashtra and Gujarat, Dussehra coincides with Navratri. During this time, people participate in Garba and Dandiya Raas and honor their weapons and instruments, which are important aspects of Vijayadashami.
Eastern India: In regions like Bengal, Assam, and Odisha, Dussehra is celebrated as Durga Puja. On this day, idols of Goddess Durga are worshipped to symbolize her victory over the demon Mahishasura.
Southern India: Mysuru Dasara in Karnataka is particularly famous for its grand festivities, which include elaborate processions featuring elephants and a palace adorned with lights. In Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, people worship Goddess Saraswati on this day, seeking her blessings for the attainment of knowledge and education.
Different forms and customs of Dussehra
Ravan Dahan – Victory over evil
Every year, Ramlila is performed in various regions of India, showcasing the story of the Ramayana in the form of a drama.
Shastra Pooja – Importance of power
Even today, the practice of Shastra Puja continues in the army, police, and other security-related systems.
Kullu Dussehra – A different experience
Kullu Dussehra of Himachal Pradesh is one of the most important Dussehra festivals of India.
Ravana Dahan does not take place here, but the procession of Lord Ram and other deities takes place.
Mysore Dussehra – Rajshahi Shobha Yatra
Mysore Dussehra in Karnataka is quite famous. Mysore Mahal is adorned with glittering lights, and the procession features elephants, horses, and bands.
Bengal’s Vijayadashami – Durga Maa Ki Vidaai
In Bengal, Dussehra is celebrated in a distinct way.
On this day, the idol of Maa Durga is immersed, and people celebrate by playing “Sindoor Khela.”
Dussehra in Modern Times
In today’s digital age, celebrations are taking on new forms. Previously, large pandals and fairs were the norm, but now people can participate in Ramleela online and engage in virtual festivities. With environmental concerns in mind, many have started using eco-friendly effigies of Ravana and biodegradable materials. Social media has also become a significant platform for spreading the festival’s message and celebrating it in innovative ways. Despite these changes, the core message of the festival remains unchanged: truth always prevails.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is Dussehra celebrated?
In some regions, this festival is also celebrated as Vijay Dashami in honor of Maa Durga, who vanquished the demon Mahishasur.
This festival serves as a reminder that, no matter how long it takes, truth will ultimately prevail.
In life, if we approach challenges with patience, courage, and integrity, we can overcome any obstacle—just as every Ravana will eventually fall.
2. How to write 10 lines on Dussehra?
1. It is also known as Vijayadashami.
2. This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
3. On this day, Lord Rama defeated Ravana.
4. In some places, people watch Ramleela and burn effigies of Ravana.
5. Some people also celebrate it as the victory of Maa Durga.
6. Homes and temples are thoroughly cleaned and decorated for the occasion.
7. Children wear new clothes on this day and enjoy the festivities.
8. teaches us that truth always prevails.
9. This festival conveys a message of unity and positivity.
10. It is celebrated every year on the Dashami of the Ashwin month.
3. What are the 10 days of Dussehra called?
The 10 days of Dussehra are called “Navaratri”.
4. What are good lines for Dussehra?
Like Ravan, you must ignite the light within you; only then will you truly celebrate.
After every period of darkness, there will always be light. Happy Dussehra!
As long as there is truth, it is Vijayadashami.
Dussehra is not just a festival; it’s a mindset—an encouragement to fight against evil.
This Dussehra, let go of your negative thoughts and work toward making your dreams a reality.
5. What is the story behind Dasara?
According to the Ramayana, on this day, Lord Rama defeated King Ravana of Lanka, who symbolized evil, arrogance, and irreligion. Rama rescues Sita, and truth triumphs.
The second story is about Goddess Durga, who fought against the Asura Mahishasur for nine days and achieved victory by defeating him on the tenth day.
6. What is the moral of Dussehra?
Dussehra teaches us that no matter how strong evil is, truth and righteousness always prevail.
The ten heads of Ravan symbolized arrogance, misguided thinking, and false religion; Ram demonstrated that everything can be defeated, except for truth.
The message of this festival is:
“Burn your walking Ravan; only then will you enjoy the real Vijayadashami.”
7. What is the connection between Navratri and Dussehra?
Navratri and Dussehra represent two aspects of the same narrative – the themes of power and victory.
The nine days of Navratri symbolize the struggle and devotion associated with the nine forms of Maa Durga, embodying power and truth. Each day, Maa Durga battles evil in a different form.
This culminates on the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami, a time when victory is celebrated.
Maa Durga conquers Mahishasura
Lord Ram defeats Ravana
Navratri symbolizes the struggle against our inner evils, while the tenth day marks the triumph over these challenges. On this day, we not only eliminate our inner negativity but also embrace the light of new beginnings.
8. Can we eat non-veg on Dussehra?
Technically, eating non-vegetarian food is not prohibited, but Dussehra is considered a holy and religious day. On this day, people celebrate the victory of Lord Rama and Maa Durga. As a result, many individuals prefer to eat satvik food, which is pure vegetarian.
The message of Dussehra emphasizes:
“Purity, sacrifice, and devotion.”
Because of this, many families choose to avoid non-vegetarian food on this day to keep both their minds and bodies pure. However, if consuming non-vegetarian food is accepted in your culture or family tradition, it ultimately depends on your personal beliefs.
The most important aspect is that emotion holds greater significance than food.
What matters is that the heart is pure and the intentions are good – that is the true essence of Prasad.
9. Can we drink alcohol on Dussehra?
Dussehra is a sacred festival that symbolizes religion, victory, and purity. On this day, Lord Rama defeated Ravana, which serves as a reminder to conquer the evils within ourselves rather than to amplify them.
Alcohol, which is often thought to purify both the mind and body, is considered inappropriate on this holy occasion.
This festival represents control, purity, and positivity—rather than indulgence.
Therefore, the message is clear: Celebrate Dussehra with your spiritual energy, not with a drink.
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