Skip to content

Dussehra

Authored by Alice Broome
Published on 24th October, 2023 1 min read

Dussehra

Today (24/10/2023) is Dussehra.

Dussehra is a Hindu festival that marks the end of Navratri after ten days of celebration. The festival is also known as Vijayadashami or the Day of Victory as it symbolises the victory of good over evil. The festival centres on the Hindu belief that light will always triumph over darkness. 

The focus of the festival varies in different parts of India. In the southern, eastern, northeastern, and some northern states of India, Dussehra signifies the victory of the goddess Durga over Mahishasura. In the northern, central, and western Indian states, it commemorates the victory of the god Rama over Ravana. Despite their differences, both focus on the defeat of evil by good. It is also said that the goddess Durga blessed Rama before his battle with Ravana, leading to his victory.

Dussehra is celebrated in diverse ways across India and the rest of the world. Some Hindus celebrate by praying, offering food to the gods, holding outdoor fairs, singing, dancing, lighting fireworks, and staging parades with effigies of Ravana. The effigies are later burnt on bonfires. Dussehra is a public holiday in India and most people have the day off in order to celebrate.


Authored by Alice Broome

Alice Broome

Alice Broome is an Editor at British Online Archives. She is a Philosophy, Politics, and Economics graduate from the University of York.


Share this article

Notable Days

About

The British Online Archives Notable Days diary is a platform intended to mark key dates and events throughout the year. The posts draw attention to historical events and figures, as well as recurring cultural traditions and international awareness days, in both religious and secular contexts.

Get Social

Linkedin
Back to Top