Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is actually a festival of the Kshatriyas. But all Hindus celebrate this festival with great joy.
Traditionally, in Indian culture, Dussehra was always full of dances where the whole community mixed together. But because of external influences and invasions, we have lost that charm today. The festival of Dussehra is unique in its perception and significance.
According to historical beliefs and the Ramayana, it has been mentioned that Lord Rama performed a chandi-puja (holy prayer) in order to get the blessings of Goddess Durga to kill the powerful demon Ravana.
Ravana was the ten-headed demon king of Sri Lanka who had kidnapped Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, to take revenge of his sister, Suparnakha.
Nine days prior to Dussehra, people celebrate Navratri. Navratri is a festival of music and dance. It is an annual Hindu festival observed in honour of goddess Durga, an aspect of Adi Parashakti, the supreme goddess. It spans over nine nights, first in the month of Chaitra and again in the month of Ashvin. The festival serves as a reminder of the power of femininity, the triumph of light over darkness, and continues to be a cherished part of India’s cultural heritage.
Jubel D'Cruz,
Dombivili, Mumbai