Dussehra in the north
In North India, mainly in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Haryana, Dussehra is celebrated with Ramlila, that ends with burning an effigy of Ravan, the ten-headed demon. It symbolises the victory of good over evil. According to Hindu mythology, Ravan kidnapped Sita, the wife of Ram, the prince of Ayodhya. Ram along with his brother Lakshman conquered Lanka (Ravan’s kingdom) with the help of Sugreeva (king of monkeys) and his army. The prince returned with his brother and wife on the auspicious day of Dussehra
Durga puja in the east
In Indian states like Orrisa, Assam and Bengal, the last four days of Navratri are celebrated as Durga puja. And on the last day, they take idols of durga for visarjan. They celebrate the victory of Maa Durga over the demon Mahisasura who captured Swarglok (heaven). The married women then play sindoor khela, where they smear each other with sindoor or vermillion powder.
Exchanging gold in the west
In Maharashtra too, Dussehra symbolises the victory of good over evil. Other than exchanging gifts and sweets, they also exchange leaves of the Aapta tree. The leaves symbolise gold and are meant to bring prosperity. Maharashtrians also think that it is an auspicious day to start new ventures.
Vijayadashami in the south
In the south, Dussehra is more commonly known as Vijayadashami. In Tamil Nadu, bomai kolu or different dolls and statues are placed on miniature platforms/steps. On the last day, the kolu is removed. In most parts of Kerala, the last day is dedicated to Saraswati puja. It is also known as vidyarambham. Three days before Dussehra, students wrap their books in a cloth and keep it in front of Saraswati (Goddess of learning). They are unwrapped on the day of dussehra and are read in front of Saraswati’s idol. Little children are initiated into education by making them write on rice.
How do you celebrate Dussehra? Leave us a comment and let us know.Diwali, Christmas, New Year... the festive season has only yet begun and we can already feel the excitement. The best part is it's contagious! Keep Smiling and enjoy life. .
