Dussehra 2024 Live Updates: Sena vs Sena in Mumbai as Uddhav and CM Shinde hold Dusshera rallies

Dussehra 2024 Live Updates: Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is one of the most important festivals in Hinduism and symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. This year, Vijayadashami will be celebrated on October 12, 2024, marking the Dashami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in the Ashwina month. The festival has deep religious, spiritual and historical significance and commemorates Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana and the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. The name “Dussehra” comes from the Sanskrit words “Dus,” meaning ten, referring to Ravana’s ten heads, and “Hara,” meaning defeat.

Vijayadashami is celebrated with great splendor in different parts of India, with each region offering its own interpretation of the festival. In Kolkata, it coincides with Durga Visarjan, where devotees bid farewell to Goddess Durga after days of festive worship and celebrate her victory over the demon Mahishasura. In Delhi, the festival is marked by the dramatic performances of Ramlila, which depict scenes from the Ramayana. The celebrations culminate in the burning of Ravana effigies, symbolizing victory over evil forces.

In Mysuru, Dussehra festival is known for its royal splendor. The entire city is illuminated and a grand procession takes place in which the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, another form of Durga, is carried on a golden throne. Elephants, horses and camels accompany the procession, while traditional music and dance performances add to the splendor. In Kerala, Vijayadashami is celebrated as Vidhyarambham and marks the introduction of young children to learning. On this day, children write their names for the first time and pray to Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge and wisdom.

In Ahmedabad, Vijayadashami follows the colorful Navratri festival. People gather to perform Garba and Dandiya dances in colorful traditional clothing. The festival ends with immersion in the idol of Goddess Durga accompanied by prayers for prosperity and protection. Kullu in Himachal Pradesh celebrates Dussehra with a week-long festival where local deities are paraded through the streets. The central figure of these processions is Lord Raghunath, also known as Lord Rama, whose victory is the central theme of the celebrations.

In South India, Vijayadashami is characterized by Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja, especially in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. People express their gratitude by revering their tools, instruments, and vehicles and recognizing the importance of these items in their daily lives.

This festival is a living reminder of the timeless message that good will always triumph over evil and is celebrated across the country with great devotion and joy.

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