Why We Celebrate Dussehra in India in 2023

Why We Celebrate Dussehra in India

Why We Celebrate Dussehra in India – Dussehra is a Hindu festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in different parts of India. Vijayadashami, which translates to “The Day of Victory,” is another name for it. ¹. The festival marks the victory of good over evil, and it is celebrated on the tenth day of Navratri ¹.

The festival has a deep significance in Hindu mythology. It celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, who had kidnapped Rama’s wife, Sita ¹. The festival also celebrates the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura ³.

For all Hindus, Dussehra is a cultural holiday that holds immense significance. It serves as a reminder to banish evil and live in peace. The three fundamental aspects of human nature—Tamas, Rajas, and Sattva—are symbolized by the nine days of Navratri.

The first three days of Navratri are known as tamas, during which the Goddess assumes an aggressive aspect, such as Kali or Durga. The following three days are associated with Rajas, during which the Goddess assumes a kind yet materialistic form similar to Lakshmi.

The final three days are devoted to Sattva, during which the Goddess manifests as Saraswati, a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment.

What is the history of Dussehra?

Dussehra, a major Hindu festival in India and Nepal, commemorates the victory of good over evil. Originating from the Ramayana epic, it celebrates Prince Rama’s journey to save his wife Sita from Ravana’s demon king Ravana, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

How is Dussehra Celebrated in India ?

Dussehra, a Hindu festival celebrated on the tenth day of Ashvin, symbolizes the triumph of good over evil in India and Nepal. The festival includes Melas and Ramlila, reenactments of Ramayana episodes, and effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna.

Kolkata is known for its lavish Durga Puja celebrations, while Kullu Dussehra begins its festivities for a full week. Visit Kullu, Almora, Delhi, Varanasi, Kota, Kolkata, Bastar, Coorg, Dasara, and Kulasekarapattinam for the best Dussehra celebrations in India.

What are Some Traditional foods eaten during Dussehra?

Dussehra is a festival celebrated in India with various traditional foods. Some popular dishes include Shavige Payasa, Gasgase Payasa, Hesarukalu Kosambari, Alugadde Palya, and Huli Thovve. Shavige Payasa is a dessert made from Shev or Vermicelli, while Gasgase Payasa is a dessert made from Poppy seeds, milk, jaggery, coconut milk, rice, and poppy seeds. Hesarukalu Kosambari is a salad made from green lentils and mustard seeds.

How do people prepare for Dussehra?

India enthusiastically celebrates the festival of Dussehra. The preparations and how the event is observed vary depending on where in India you are. The following are some typical ways that people get ready for Dussehra:

1. Cleaning: People clean their homes and surroundings to welcome the goddess Durga.
2. Decorating: People decorate their homes with flowers, rangolis, and lights.
3. Shopping: People buy new clothes, jewelry, and other items to celebrate the festival.
4. Fasting: Some people fast during the nine-day period of Navratri leading up to Dussehra.
5. Cooking: People prepare traditional foods like Shavige Payasa, Gasgase Payasa, Hesarukalu Kosambari, Alugadde Palya, and Huli Thovve.
6. Performing Puja: People perform puja at home or in temples to seek blessings from the goddess Durga.

How do people celebrate Dussehra in North India?

Dussehra, a festival celebrated with enthusiasm in North India, includes Ram Lila, an enactment of Lord Rama’s story, and the burning of Ravana’s life-size effigy. In Delhi, performances are showcased across the capital, while Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, hosts a week-long celebration, earning it a reputation for exceptional global celebrations.

What are some other festivals celebrated during this time?

India is a nation with a rich cultural heritage and observes numerous festivals all year long. In India, the following holidays are observed in October and November:

1. Diwali: Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most popular festivals in India. It is celebrated with great enthusiasm and is a five-day festival that marks the victory of good over evil .
2. Navratri: Navratri is a nine-day festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. It is celebrated with great fervor across India .
3. Halloween: Although not an Indian festival, Halloween is celebrated in some parts of India, especially in metropolitan cities like Mumbai and Delhi .
4. Chhath Puja: Chhath Puja is a four-day festival celebrated mainly in Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh. It is dedicated to the worship of the Sun God .
5. Guru Nanak Jayanti: Guru Nanak Jayanti is a Sikh festival that celebrates the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism .

FAQs

 Q: Why is Dussehra Celebrated for Nine Days?

Ans: Dussehra is celebrated for nine days as part of Navratri, dedicated to the nine forms of the goddess Durga. Each day signifies the worship of a different form, culminating in Dussehra, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

 Q: What Is the Significance of Burning Ravana’s Effigy?

Ans: Burning Ravana’s effigy during Dussehra symbolizes the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, emphasizing the victory of righteousness over evil forces.

 Q: How Do Different States in India Celebrate Dussehra?

Ans: Each Indian state adds its unique touch to Dussehra celebrations. For example, in West Bengal, it coincides with Durga Puja, while in Gujarat, it’s famous for the Garba dance. These regional variations make Dussehra a diverse and captivating festival.

 Q: What Are the Must-Try Dussehra Delicacies?

Ans: Dussehra brings an array of delectable treats, such as crispy jalebis, fragrant samosas, and sweet malpua. These mouthwatering dishes are an integral part of the festivities.

 Q: How Does Dussehra Promote Family Unity?

Ans: Dussehra is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional meals. It strengthens familial bonds and fosters a sense of togetherness.

 Q: Is Dussehra Only Celebrated in India?

Ans: While Dussehra originated in India, it’s also celebrated in other countries with Indian diaspora. The festival has gained recognition and popularity worldwide.

Conclusion

I hope you know that Why We Celebrate Dussehra In India, Dussehra is more than just a holiday; it is a vivid tapestry of customs, mythology, and cultural diversity. We commemorate the victory of good over evil during Dussehra and serve as a reminder of the enduring principles that bind our society together.

In conclusion, Dussehra is a celebration of new beginnings, righteousness, and optimism. Let’s embrace the spirit of Dussehra and uphold its beloved customs as we gather with family and friends to celebrate this event.