When is Dussehra in 2024?

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival celebrated with great fervor across India. In 2024, Dussehra will be observed on October 12th. The festival falls on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin, which typically corresponds to September or October in the Gregorian calendar. 2024 Dussehra

2024 Dussehra Muhurat

The auspicious time (Muhurat) for Dussehra is determined by the Hindu Panchang. In 2024, the Vijay Muhurat is from 2:04 PM to 2:50 PM. This period is considered highly favorable for starting new ventures and making important decisions, as it is believed to bring success and victory.

Why is Dussehra Celebrated?

Dussehra marks the victory of good over evil and is celebrated for two main reasons:

1. Victory of Lord Rama over Ravana: According to the epic Ramayana, Dussehra commemorates the day when Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, defeated the demon king Ravana. Ravana had abducted Lord Rama’s wife, Sita, leading to a fierce battle between the forces of good and evil. The burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna signifies the destruction of evil and the triumph of righteousness.
2. Victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura: In the eastern and northeastern parts of India, Dussehra is celebrated as the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. This legend signifies the power of Shakti (feminine energy) and the victory of good over evil. The festival is the culmination of the ten-day Navratri festival, which involves the worship of the nine forms of Goddess Durga.

Stories Associated with Dussehra

1. The Ramayana: The most popular story associated with Dussehra is from the Ramayana. Lord Rama, with the help of his brother Lakshmana, the devotee Hanuman, and an army of monkeys, waged war against Ravana to rescue Sita. After a fierce battle, Lord Rama finally killed Ravana on the tenth day, marking Dussehra as a symbol of the victory of good over evil.
2. The Mahabharata: Another story related to Dussehra is from the Mahabharata. The Pandavas, during their exile, hid their weapons in a Shami tree. After completing their exile, they retrieved their weapons on Vijayadashami and went on to win the Kurukshetra war. This tale emphasizes the importance of preparation and righteousness.

The Grandest Dussehra Celebrations in India

Dussehra is celebrated with unique customs and grandeur across various regions of India. Here are some of the most notable celebrations:

1. Mysore Dussehra: One of the most famous Dussehra celebrations takes place in Mysore, Karnataka. The Mysore Palace is illuminated with thousands of lights, and a grand procession featuring caparisoned elephants, music bands, and vibrant tableaux is held. The celebration attracts thousands of tourists from around the world.
2. Kolkata Durga Puja: In West Bengal, Dussehra is synonymous with Durga Puja, a five-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. Elaborate pandals (temporary structures) are set up, showcasing intricate idols of the goddess. The city of Kolkata comes alive with cultural performances, music, and dance, culminating in the immersion of the idols on Vijayadashami.
3. Kullu Dussehra: In Himachal Pradesh, Kullu Dussehra is a week-long international festival that begins on Vijayadashami. Deities from different parts of the valley are brought to the Dhalpur Maidan in Kullu, where they are worshipped and processions are held. The festival attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.
4. Delhi’s Ramlila: In the capital city of Delhi, Ramlila performances, which depict the life story of Lord Rama, are organized in various parts of the city. The enactments culminate on Dussehra with the burning of huge effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna, accompanied by fireworks and festivities.

Conclusion

Dussehra is a festival that embodies the victory of good over evil and the triumph of righteousness. It is a time for joyous celebrations, reflection on moral values, and renewal of faith. Whether it’s through the burning of Ravana’s effigies, the worship of Goddess Durga, or the grand processions and cultural events, Dussehra brings people together in a spirit of unity and festivity. As we celebrate Dussehra in 2024, let us remember the timeless lessons of courage, perseverance, and the ultimate victory of good over evil.