Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is one of the most significant festivals in India that symbolises the triumph of good over evil. Vijayadashami marks the culmination the nine-day Navratri festival and this year, it will be celebrated in October 12 and October 13. The festival is of immense cultural and spiritual importance, as it commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana and the slaying of the buffalo demon Mahishasura by the goddess Durga. Also known as Dashami, on this day in West Bengal, Durga idols are immersed in Ganga or other water bodies. People across India celebrate Vijayadashami with various rituals, effigy burnings, and performances of Ramayana. In this article, we’ll learn about Vijayadashmi 2024 date, significance and celebrations.

Vijayadashami 2024 Date and Muhurat

Vijayadashami 2024 falls on October 12, which delivers a universal message of the triumph of good over evil. Vijaya Muhurat is from 02:03 PM to 02:49 PM on October 12. Aparahna Puja Time is on October 13 from 01:17 PM to 03:35 PM. Dashami tithi will begin on October 12 at 10:58 AM and end on October 13 at 09:08 AM.

Vijayadashami Significance

The word ‘Vijaya’ means victory and ‘Dashami’ refers to the tenth day, representing the end of the battle between good and evil forces. Vijayadashami serves as a reminder of the importance of Dharma (righteousness) and the destruction of evil in both personal and societal contexts. Whether through the story of Rama’s victory over Ravana or Durga’s conquest over Mahishasura, the festival symbolises the divine strength that helps win over injustice and chaos. Durga Puja 2024 Calendar With Dates in Kolkata: When Is Mahalaya, Subho Sasthi, Maha Saptami, Durga Ashtami, Maha Navami and Bijoya Dashami? Know All About Bengali Durga Puja.

Vijayadashami Celebrations and Rituals

Vijayadashami celebrations take place across the nation in diverse ways. In northern states, Ramayan performances, which narrate the life and victories of Lord Rama are staged in towns and villages. Vijayadashami ends with the dramatic burning of huge effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran, representing the defeat of evil.

Moreover, in West Bengal, the festival coincides with the final day of Durga Puja, where huge Durga idols are immersed in Ganga and other water bodies, symbolising her return to her celestial abode after slaying Mahishasura. The South celebrates Vijayadashami as a day to begin new ventures, where students start their education in what is known as ‘Vidyarambham’—a special ceremony that marks the beginning of learning.

As we approach Vijayadashami 2024, the festival encourages us to reflect on our battles and finally achieve victory over evil. This day brings hope and reinforces the belief that we can overcome personal, societal and global challenges with determination and faith. On this day, people all across the country come together and celebrate the triumph of good over evil.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 24, 2024 01:33 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).