Dasara (Vijayadashami) – Indian Celebration of Victory and Devotion

September 11, 2025 , ,

 

Dasara, also known as Vijayadashami, marks the culmination of the Navratri festival and is celebrated with immense enthusiasm across India. Symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, the festival honors both Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana and Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura, depending on regional traditions.

Celebrations in South India

  • In Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, families arrange Bommai Kolu—steps decorated with dolls, lamps, and flowers.
  • Vijayadashami marks the ceremonial dismantling of the Kolu and the observance of Vidya Aarambham, where children begin their journey in academics and arts.
  • Saraswati Puja is performed to honor the goddess of learning.
  • In Kerala, similar traditions are observed with reverence.
  • Mysore Dasara is renowned for its elephant-led procession, palace illumination, and Ravana effigy burning.
  • In Andhra Pradesh, the festival is popularly referred to as Dasara, with regional rituals and temple festivities.

Celebrations in Western India

  • In Maharashtra, Dasara marks Lord Rama’s victory and the immersion of Navratri idols.
  • Families exchange Aapta tree leaves, symbolizing prosperity.
  • The Shami tree legend from the Mahabharata is honored, recalling the Pandavas retrieving their hidden weapons.
  • It’s considered an auspicious day to start new ventures and visit loved ones.

Celebrations in Eastern India

  • In West Bengal, Vijayadashami concludes Durga Puja, celebrating Durga’s victory over Mahishasura.
  • The day features visarjan (idol immersion) and Sindoor Khela among married women.
  • In Odisha, the festival is called Vijaya Dashami, ending with Aparajita Puja and Bisarjan Jatra.
  • Ravan Podi—burning of Ravana effigies—is also observed in Odisha.

Celebrations in North India

  • Ramlila performances dominate the celebrations, especially in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab, culminating in the burning of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran effigies.
  • In Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu Valley, over 100 village deities are brought in colorful processions to honor Lord Raghunathji.
  • The Kullu Dasara is a week-long affair, blending spiritual devotion with folk traditions.

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