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Writer's pictureAmbling indian

Why does Dusshera matter?

Updated: Oct 13

For many of the young readers who often ask -

What is dusshera ( also dasara - the 10th day) that falls on 12th october this year ?



"The Mysore Palace Dasara - a grand celebration "

Dasara is a significant festival in Hinduism that celebrates the triumph of good over evil and serves as a reminder of the importance of righteousness and virtue.


What is the story ?

The story goes that Ram reached the home of Ravana and on this day, he killed Ravana who had abducted Sita, Ram's wife. While it took many days to fight Ravana , ultimately truth prevailed and Ravana was killed on this day.


How is it celebrated ?

In the 9 days that come before Dusshera , India celebrates through many ways

  • In Gujrat, worship of the Godess through dances and garba.

  • In Bengal, Durga puja through community celebrations.

  • In South, a display of dolls ( kolu ) at people;s homes - kolu dolls are collected over many years

  • In North and East India, Kanya Pujan is observed, where nine young girls are worshipped as the nine forms of Goddess Durga. These girls are offered food , including Halwa, Chana, and Poori, along with various gifts.


What is the Dasara known for?


  • Navratri: The nine nights leading up to Dasara are known as Navratri, during which devotees worship nine different forms of the Divine Mother (Devi).

  • Burning of Ravana effigies: On the tenth day, Vijayadashami, giant effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghnad are burned. This symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

  • Ramlila: Many regions stage Ramlila, a dramatic performance depicting the story of Ramayana.

  • Cultural events: Dasara is often accompanied by cultural events such as music, dance, and fairs.

  • Feasting: People enjoy traditional feasts and sweets during the festival.

  • Ayudha puja : People clean and pray for all the machines they use in the year ( akin to an annual maintainence).


Why does it matter ?

Many undertake fasting in Navratri - cleansing and controlling the mind and body through only one meal taken in the day, for 9 days. It matters because people celebrate goodness , the triumph of good, foster good thoughts, honour girls and women.

Dasara is one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu year, and it is considered a good day to start anything new ..


For all my young readers, Happy Dasara!! Do share with all your friends - the glorious culture of Dusshera and India !


Regards, Aina Rao

The amblingindian- Quirky reads on india



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