Dussehra 2023: Shardiya Navratri has started and people are all out celebrating with full grandeur and religious fervour. Dedicated to the nine avatars of Maa Durga, Navratri is celebrated over the span of nine nights and concluded in the 10th day of Shukla Paksha of the Ashwin as Dussehra. This festival is also known as Vijayadashami. Vijaya Dashami is celebrated at the end of the nine-day Navratri festival.

For many people, Dussehra marks the beginning of the preparations for Diwali, which is a festival of lights that celebrates the victory of good over evil. In 2023, Vijayadashami will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 24th. The festival is celebrated by Hindus all over the world, and it commemorates the victory of good over evil.

Navratri 2023: What Is The Difference Between Dussehra, Vijayadashami And Dashain? | Freepik

The word Dussehra comes from the Sanskrit words, 'Dasha' and 'hara.' Dasha means ten (Ravana had ten heads) and hara means defeat (Lord Rama defeats Ravana). The festival symbolises the victory of good over evil.

Vijayadashami or Dussehra and Dashain are different names for the same Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. Dussehra is primarily celebrated in North India, Vijaya Dashami is celebrated in South India, and Dashain is celebrated in Nepal. Some of the rituals that are followed on the day of Vijayadashami such as - Shami Puja, Aparajita Puja, and Seema Avalanghan.Why Vijayadashami Is Celebrated After Navratri?

The terms "Dussehra," "Vijayadashami," and "Dashain" are all related to Hindu festivals, but they are celebrated differently and hold distinct cultural and regional significance.

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a Hindu festival celebrated in various parts of India. The name "Dussehra" is derived from two Sanskrit words, "Dasha" meaning ten and "Hara" meaning defeat, symbolising the victory of good over evil.

Dussehra is called by different names across the country Durga Puja or Vijayadashami in the East and North-east, Dussehra in Northern and Western states. There are many mythological stories behind the celebration of Dussehra but the most famous story associated with Dussehra is the battle between Lord Rama and the demon king Ravana.

Navratri 2023: What Is The Difference Between Dussehra, Vijayadashami And Dashain?

On Dussehra, the effigies of Ravana along with his brother Kumbhkaran and son Meghnad are burned in public bonfires. This is a symbolic way to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

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Vijayadashami is another name for Dussehra and is often used interchangeably. It also signifies the victory of good over evil, with Lord Rama's triumph being the central theme.

The celebrations of Vijayadashami are similar to Dussehra, involving the burning of Ravana effigies, processions, and cultural performances. The name "Vijayadashami" emphasises the victorious aspect of the festival.

Dashain is the longest and most significant festival in Nepal. While it shares some similarities with Dussehra, it is a distinct cultural celebration.

Dashain is celebrated to commemorate the day the goddess Durga killed demons known as Mahishasura - who were killing the world of the gods, the devaloka. After ten days of battle, Durga was victorious and from then on, Dashain has been celebrated over fifteen days to symbolise the fight of good against evil.

Dashain is marked by various rituals, including the flying of kites, worshipping of goddess Durga, and receiving tika from elders as a blessing. Dashain typically lasts for 15 days and is a time for family reunions and cultural activities in Nepal.

Navratri 2023: What Is The Difference Between Dussehra, Vijayadashami And Dashain? | Freepik

What is the significance of Dussehra?

Dussehra symbolises the victory of good over evil, with its roots in the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama defeated the demon king Ravana.

How is Dussehra celebrated in different parts of India?

Dussehra is celebrated with regional variations. In the North and West, it's marked by Ravana effigy burnings, while in the South, it celebrates the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari over Mahishasura.

What is the Ayudha Puja?

Ayudha Puja, observed mainly in Karnataka, is a day to honour and worship one's tools and instruments, recognizing their role in one's livelihood.

What is the significance of the Golu doll display in Tamil Nadu?

The Golu doll display is a cultural tradition in Tamil Nadu, where families arrange an elaborate exhibit of dolls representing various deities and aspects of Indian culture.

What message does Dussehra convey to society?

Dussehra conveys the message of the enduring triumph of truth, unity, and hope, inspiring people to stand up against injustice and evil.

(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)

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Navratri 2023: What Is The Difference Between Dussehra, Vijayadashami And Dashain? - Indiatimes.com