Millions Celebrate Dussehra Across India
The Hindu festival marking the triumph of good over evil is observed with diverse traditions, including effigy burnings and devotional ceremonies.
Millions of people across India are celebrating Dussehra, a major Hindu festival symbolizing the victory of good over evil. The observance features various rituals and grand celebrations tailored to different regions of the country.
Dussehra commonly commemorates the victory of the deity Lord Ram over the demon king Ravan, who had ten heads. Concurrently, the festival aligns with Vijayadashami in eastern and southern India, honoring Goddess Durga's defeat of the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
In northern India, the days leading up to Dussehra are marked by theatrical performances known as Ramlila. These reenactments, based on the Hindu epic Ramayana, depict Lord Ram's exile and his wife Sita's abduction by Ravan, culminating in a battle that highlights the triumph of righteousness. Following these performances, effigies of Ravan, his brother Kumbhkaran, and son Meghnath are ritually burned. The performances are often accompanied by a festive atmosphere with food stalls and smaller entertainment acts.
In eastern and other parts of India, including among Hindus in Bangladesh, the festival is celebrated as Durga Puja. This involves the worship of the divine feminine power, with temporary structures called pandals housing idols of Goddess Durga and other deities. Devotees visit these pandals, where Durga is often depicted in the act of slaying Mahishasura.
The festival also signifies the beginning of preparations for Diwali, the festival of lights, which occurs 20 days later.
The celebrations often incorporate contemporary themes, particularly in Kolkata's Durga Puja festivities, with decorations in the pandals reflecting current events. Traditional dances, such as Gujarat's Garba, are also a significant part of community celebrations during the preceding Navratri period.
Throughout the country, the festival is marked by prayers, processions, and the burning of effigies, symbolizing the enduring theme of good overcoming evil. Marigolds, associated with victory, are often harvested and used in decorations for the celebrations.
