Celebrates Rama’s victory over Ravana and Durga’s defeat of Mahishasura.
Shami Puja symbolizes reclaiming strength and victory.
Effigy burning (Ravana Dahan) marks evil’s defeat in North India.
Durga Visarjan represents the goddess’s return in Bengal.
Vidyarambham initiates learning for children in South India.
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Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra or Dasara, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrated on the tenth day of the Ashwin month, marking the end of Navratri and Durga Puja. In 2025, Vijayadashami falls on October 2nd. This day celebrates the victory of good over evil, symbolized by Lord Rama’s defeat of the demon king Ravana and Goddess Durga’s triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
The rituals begin with Shami Puja, where devotees worship the Shami tree, believed to bring victory and prosperity. According to the Mahabharata, the Pandavas retrieved their hidden weapons from this tree before their final battle. Aparajita Puja is performed to invoke the invincible form of Goddess Durga for strength and protection. Another ritual, Seema Avalanghan, involves crossing symbolic boundaries, signifying expansion and conquest.
In North India, the day is marked by Ravana Dahan—the burning of giant effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna—symbolizing the destruction of evil. In Eastern India, Durga Visarjan takes place, where beautifully adorned idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in rivers or seas, marking her return to Mount Kailash. In South India, Vidyarambham is conducted, initiating young children into learning and education.
The spirit of Vijayadashami lies in inner transformation, courage, and the reaffirmation of righteousness. It is a day that encourages people to overcome negativity and start anew with strength and clarity.
