Dussehra 2022: Significance and celebration of Vijayadashami
Dussehra, also known as “Vijayadashami,” is one of the most significant religious holidays in India. It falls 5th October in the year 2022. The auspicious day signifies the conclusion of Durga Puja celebrations and the nine-day Navratri festival. It is also thought that on this day, in a protracted conflict between the forces of good and evil, Lord Rama vanquished King Ravana and his army. This is the reason the day is known as Vijay Dashami (the day of victory). It was also the day that Goddess Durga engaged Mahishasura’s army in battle and finally defeated the buffalo demon.
Although historically Dashami and Dussehra have separate traditions, they both celebrate God’s victory over evil. Ramlila performances are also held on this day, where effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakaran are burned to symbolise the triumph of good over evil. Through ballads and dramas, people have attempted to capture the life and splendour of the virtuous Lord Rama.
The idols of Durga and her children, Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikeya, Goddess Saraswati, and Goddess Lakshmi, are also submerged with a heavy heart. People send each other Happy Dussehra or Shubho Bijoya wishes as they reflect on the past year with nostalgia and look forward to the future.
