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 Dusshera is celebrated in most of the regions in India. This is one of the most celebrated festivals, which marks the beginning of the winter season. It is celebrated on the onset of winter. The festival also marks the end of summer season. It is also the celebration of good over evil. Dusshera is also known as Vijaya Dashmi in some regions. Even though it is celebrated in most part of the country, it is in North India where it is celebrated with much fun and enthusiasm.
About Dussehra in Rajasthan
Dusshera or the tenth day, as it is known is celebrated to mark the victory of Ram in the battle, which was fought with demon Ravana. Due to this victory, it is known as Vijaya Dashmi or the “victory tenth”. Dusherra generally follows after Navratri. Navratri is the time when goddess Durga is worshipped. In fact Lord Rama is worshipped along with Durga.
History of Dusshera
As far the legend is concerned, Ram fought a fierce battle along with Ravana, in order to rescue Sita from his clutches. The battle continued for ten days and he was helped by Laxman, Hanuman and by an army of monkeys.
Some on the other hand holds that, Kautsa, who was the young son of Devdatt, uses to stay at Paithan. He was guided by Rishi Varatantu. Devdatt thought of presenting gifts to his guru, as guru dakshina. Even though his guru refused initially, he accepted later. The student went to King Raghu, who was famous for his generosity. Within a few days, the king made lot of gold coins. Devdatt gave the coins to his teacher as dakshina. The excess ones were later distributed to the needy on Dussehra. This ritual of distributing gifts to the needy are still practiced in some regions.
Rituals of Dusshera
Being one of the popular Hindu festivals, there are certain rituals which are followed. In most of the places effigies of Ravana is made, which are burnt later on. It is burnt in order to show the death of the evil force. Several processions and tableau can be seen on the streets, which depict the entire episode of Ram’s life. On the tenth day or in Vijay Dashmi, the effigies of Ravana, his brother named Kumbhakarna and of his son Meghnad are kept in open spaces. People dress up as the Ram and Sita, who were innocent, shoot the effigies, which are stuffed with fire crackers. You can also find Ram Lila in few celebrations also, which depicts the entire episode of Ram’s life and journey.
Indianholiday.com offers online information on Dusshera
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