Dussehra 2023 Start Date And End Date: Navratri Significance & Rituals
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most important Hindu festivals. It is celebrated on the tenth day of the Shukla Paksha of the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu calendar. This year, Dussehra will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.
Navratri is a nine-day festival that precedes Dussehra. During Navratri, the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped. On the tenth day of Navratri, Dussehra is celebrated to commemorate the victory of good over evil.
Significance of Dussehra
Dussehra has many different religious and cultural significances. On a religious level, Dussehra celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. Ravana had kidnapped Rama’s wife, Sita, and Rama waged a war to rescue her. After a long and bloody battle, Rama finally defeated Ravana and rescued Sita.
On a cultural level, Dussehra is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, good will always prevail.
Rituals of Dussehra
There are many different rituals that are performed on Dussehra. Some of the most common rituals include:
- Ravan Dahan: On the day of Dussehra, large effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad are burnt. This symbolises the victory of good over evil.
- Shastra Puja: On Dussehra, weapons are worshipped. This is a way to pay homage to the warriors who have fought for justice and righteousness.
- Durga Puja: On Dussehra, Goddess Durga is worshipped. She is the goddess of war and victory.
Dussehra is a time for celebration and festivity. It is a time to come together with family and friends and celebrate the triumph of good over evil.
Safety guidelines for Dussehra
Dussehra is a time for celebration, but it is also important to be safe. Here are some safety guidelines to keep in mind:
- Be careful when watching the Ravan Dahan. The effigies are often burnt in crowded areas, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings.
- Do not stand too close to the effigies. They can collapse and cause injuries.
- Be careful when using fireworks. Fireworks can be dangerous if not used properly.
- If you are attending a public event, be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpockets and other crimes.
Have a safe and happy Dussehra!
