Dussehra

Definition

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival celebrated primarily in India, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. It commemorates the defeat of the demon king Ravana by Lord Rama, as depicted in the epic Ramayana, and marks the end of Navaratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to the goddess Durga. The festivities include dramatic reenactments, cultural performances, and elaborate processions, emphasizing the themes of righteousness and justice.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dussehra marks the conclusion of Navaratri and celebrates not only Rama's victory over Ravana but also the triumph of goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
2. In many regions, effigies of Ravana are burned on Dussehra night as a symbolic act representing the destruction of evil.
3. The festival is celebrated with various regional customs; for example, in northern India, it often involves Ramlila performances, while in southern India, it includes Golu displays.
4. Dussehra falls on the tenth day of Ashvin, which usually corresponds to September or October in the Gregorian calendar.
5. It is not only a religious festival but also a time for family gatherings, cultural events, and community celebrations across India.

Review Questions

• How does Dussehra illustrate the theme of good versus evil in Hindu mythology?
  • Dussehra vividly illustrates the theme of good versus evil through the narrative of Lord Rama's battle against Ravana. The festival commemorates Rama's victory, symbolizing the triumph of righteousness over wickedness. This story serves as an important moral lesson within Hindu culture, emphasizing that virtuous behavior ultimately leads to success against malevolent forces.
• Discuss how different regions in India celebrate Dussehra and how these customs reflect local cultures.
  • Different regions in India have unique ways of celebrating Dussehra that reflect their local cultures. In northern India, Ramlila performances depict scenes from the Ramayana leading up to Rama's victory over Ravana. Meanwhile, in southern India, families create Golu displays with dolls representing deities and mythical stories. These variations highlight the rich tapestry of cultural practices across India while maintaining the central theme of celebrating good overcoming evil.
• Evaluate the role of Dussehra in contemporary Indian society beyond its religious significance.
  • In contemporary Indian society, Dussehra serves not only as a religious festival but also as a catalyst for community bonding and cultural expression. It promotes values such as unity and social responsibility through communal celebrations and public performances. The festival has also become an occasion for artistic expression through theater and dance, showcasing India's diverse heritage while addressing current societal issues through traditional narratives. Thus, Dussehra transcends its religious roots to foster a sense of identity and collective spirit among people.

Related terms

Rama: A central figure in Hindu mythology, Rama is considered the seventh avatar of the god Vishnu and the protagonist of the Ramayana, celebrated for his virtues and heroism.

Navaratri: A nine-night Hindu festival that honors the goddess Durga, involving fasting, prayer, dance, and music, culminating in Dussehra.

Ravana: The ten-headed demon king in Hindu mythology who symbolizes evil and is ultimately defeated by Rama in the epic tale of Ramayana.