Today (12/10/2024) 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.