Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most celebrated Hindu festivals in India. It marks the triumph of good over evil and is observed with great enthusiasm and devotion. In 2023, in the month of October, Shardiya Navratri is going to be started on October 15, and it will culminate with Durga Puja and Dussehra, which will be celebrated on October 24, 2023. Dussehra 2023: Delhi Govt Allows Use of Loudspeakers for Ramlila Celebrations, Durga Puja Till Midnight.

Dussehra 2023 Date and Timing

This year, the festival of Dussehra will be celebrated on October 24. Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha of Ashwin month is starting at 5.44 pm on 23rd October and Dashami Tithi will remain till 3.14 pm on 24th October. According to Udaya Tithi, Dussehra will be celebrated on 24th October. The date varies each year based on the lunar calendar, making it a dynamic and culturally rich festival.

  • Vijayadashami/Dussehra on Tuesday, October 24, 2023

  • Vijay Muhurat - 01:58 PM to 02:43 PM

  • Duration - 00 Hours 45 Mins

Significance of Dussehra

  • Triumph of Good Over Evil: Dussehra symbolizes the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, Lord Rama, accompanied by his loyal brother Lakshmana and the devoted monkey-god Hanuman, vanquished the ten-headed demon king Ravana, who had abducted Rama's wife, Sita. The battle between Rama and Ravana represents the eternal struggle between righteousness (dharma) and evil (adharma).

  • Worship of Goddess Durga: In some]e parts of India, Dussehra also marks the culmination of the nine-day Navaratri festival, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. It celebrates the feminine divine, representing the power and strength of the goddess in her various forms. Dashain 2023 Date in Nepal: Know Time, Puja Vidhi and Significance of Nepali Festival Marking the End of Durga Puja.

  • Ram Lila: Dussehra is celebrated with elaborate stage performances known as "Ram Lila." These reenactments of Lord Rama's life, including his battle with Ravana, are a significant part of the festival's festivities. They are often performed in open grounds or temporary stages, drawing large crowds.

  • Destruction of Ravana's Effigy: A key tradition on Dussehra involves the burning of large effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghanada (Indrajit). This event, known as "Ravana Dahan," symbolizes the victory of good over evil and is accompanied by fireworks and celebrations.

  • Agricultural Significance: In some regions, Dussehra marks the end of the monsoon season and the beginning of the harvest season. Farmers worship their tools and equipment during this time, seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest.

  • Dussehra Celebrations: People across India celebrate Dussehra with various customs and traditions. They visit temples, exchange sweets and gifts with loved ones, and partake in feasts. It is also an auspicious time for starting new ventures or seeking blessings for personal and professional success.

Happy Dussehra 2023! Greetings & Messages To Share On Ravan Dahan

Dussehra is not only a religious festival but also a cultural extravaganza that brings communities together. It reinforces the values of righteousness, courage, and the victory of good over evil. The grandeur and significance of Dussehra make it a remarkable and cherished festival in the diverse tapestry of Indian culture, uniting people of all backgrounds in the spirit of joy and devotion.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 24, 2023 09:59 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).