Why is Dussehra Called Vijayadashami? 2024 Dashami Muhurat, Rituals, and Puja Samagri Explained

Dussehra also known as Vijayadashami or Dashami is a Hindu festival symbolising the victory of good over evil. As per belief, it was on this day that Lord Ram triumphed over Lanka’s demon king Ravana. The day is also called Vijaydishamai which translates to “victory on the tenth day”. The festival is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashvin. This year Dussehra will fall on October 12. Dussehra celebrations include the burning of effigies of Ravana.

Dashami Shubh Muhurat

As per Drik Panchang, Dashami Tithi begins at 10:58 AM on October 12. Dashami Tithi will end at 09:08 AM on October 13.

Why is Dussehra Called Vijayadashami?

Dussehra is a celebration of Lord Ram’s victory over Lanka’s demon king Ravan. As per the Hindu epic Ramayana, it is believed that Lord Ram slayed Ravan on the 10th day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin. The day is celebrated as Vijaya Dashmi to commemorate this victory of truth over evil forces.

Dussehra is also celebrated in reverence of Goddess Durga, who killed the buffalo demon Mahishasura on this day.

How Is Dussehra Celebrated?

Dussehra is marked by various rituals and festivities:

1. Ramlila PerformancesThe annual festive dramas recreate Lord Ram’s life and culminate by setting fire to life-sized effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnath.
2. Effigy BurningThe main event involves the lighting of large effigies packed with fireworks that accompany community celebratory events and fireworks displays.
3. Ayudha PujaIn some regions especially in south India tools and instruments are worshipped to show appreciation for these items in our daily activities.
4. Durga VisarjanIn West Bengal, it is celebrated with the Durga idols taken for Visarjan in a river or a pond which marks the end of Navratri celebrations.

Puja Samagri For Dussehra

For Dussehra, a variety of Puja Samagri is traditionally used to perform rituals and honour deities including mata chunri, incense sticks (agarbatti), cotton wicks, camphor, turmeric powder (haldi), kumkum powder, red/green cloth, ghee, sandalwood powder (chandan), honey and misri, fruits and sweets, betel leaves and nuts, dhoop cones, flowers, and rice.

IN PICS: Happy Dussehra Wishes 2024: Images, Quotes, Messages and WhatsApp Greetings to Share on Vijayadashami

Special Items for Specific Rituals

• The idol of Goddess Durga or Lord Ram: Central figures in the worship.
• Coconut (Nariyal): Often broken as an offering to signify prosperity.
• Mango Leaves: Used in decorations as a symbol of prosperity and fertility.
• Saffron (Kesar): Occasionally used for special offerings.
• Many kits also include items like bangles, combs, small mirrors, and mehndi (henna), which are part of traditional rituals performed by women during the festival.