Dussehra is observed to mark the triumph of Lord Rama over demon Ravana. Also known as Vijaya Dashmi, the day celebrates the end of Navaratri which falls on the 10th day of the Hindu month of Ashwin. Marking the killing of the demon, effigies of Ravana are burned in various parts of India symbolising the downfall of the evil. Called Ravan Dahan, the event generally begins with the performance of Ramleela, depicting events from the Hindu mythology Ramayana. Ravan was killed in a fierce battle with Lord Rama, thus marking the victory of good over evil which is celebrated as Dasara. The effigies of Ravan are burned during Vijay Muhurat on Dussehra which is between 02.06 pm and 02.52 pm on October 8, 2019.

In the northern parts of India, effigies are burned at big open grounds garnering hundreds of people. In the customary practice, the effigies of Ravan, Meghnad and Kumbhakaran are burned. Following the burning, people celebrate the festival wishing each other health, wealth and prosperity. Ravan Dahan is held at various places in the country. You can check best places to watch Ravan Dahan and Vijayadashami events in Mumbai and Delhi here.

Dussehra Ravan Dahan Vijay Muhurat

According to the Drik Panchang, the Vijay Muhurat on Dussehra is between 02.06 pm and 02.52 pm. Some of the rituals conducted on the day include Shami Puja, Aparajita Puja and Seema Avalanghan. These rituals are done during Aparahna time. Aparahna Puja time is between 01.19 pm and 03.39 pm on October 8, 2019. The Dashami tithi begins at 12.38 pm on Oct 07, 2019 and ends at 02.50 pm on October 08, 2019. While northeast and south India celebrates  Vijayadashami, western and northern parts of the country celebrate Dussehra.

World's tallest Ravana effigy at 221 feet has been erected in Chandigarh this Dussehra. Costing Rs 30 lakh, the effigy weighs over 70 quintals. Meanwhile, the rain has been playing spoilsport in different places in the country. Due to which Ravan effigies in Bhopal have been adorned with raincoats.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 08, 2019 10:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).