INVC NEWS
New Delhi : Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is a prominent Hindu festival that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Celebrated on the tenth day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Ashwin, this festival holds immense cultural and religious significance. In 2024, Vijayadashami falls on October 12, and the nation will celebrate the momentous occasion with fervor, marking the culmination of Sharadiya Navratri.
The day honors the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, as well as the goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura, bringing to light the victory of truth, righteousness, and dharma. Across India, elaborate ceremonies, pujas, and Ravana Dahan are performed to celebrate this important festival.
Dussehra Date and Timing in 2024
This year, Dussehra will be celebrated on October 12, 2024, marking the end of Navratri and the beginning of a new cycle of prosperity and success. The Dashami Tithi begins on October 12, 2024, at 10:57 AM and ends on October 13, 2024, at 09:07 AM.
As per the Hindu calendar, Dussehra is observed during the Pradosh Kaal, or the time just after sunset, which is considered extremely auspicious for the burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna.
Ravana Dahan Muhurat for 2024
One of the main rituals of Dussehra is the Ravana Dahan, where effigies of Ravana, along with those of his brother Meghnath and son Kumbhakarna, are burned to signify the destruction of evil forces. The Shubh Muhurat for Ravana Dahan in 2024 will be from 5:52 PM to 7:26 PM on October 12, 2024.
Conducting the Ravana Dahan during this auspicious time is believed to bring prosperity, peace, and success into one’s life by warding off evil forces and negativities. Thousands of devotees gather at various venues across the country to witness this grand event, which is followed by fireworks and vibrant cultural programs.
Dussehra 2024: Auspicious Yogas and Significance
This year, Dussehra will also see the convergence of several auspicious Yogas that enhance the spiritual importance of the day:
- Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga: This yoga is formed on Dussehra day, beginning at 5:25 AM on October 12 and continuing until 4:27 AM on October 13. It is regarded as a highly favorable time for beginning new ventures and engaging in sacred rituals.
- Ravi Yoga: Another auspicious yoga that forms on October 12, 2024, starting at 6:20 AM and lasting until 6:21 AM on October 13. This yoga is known to nullify any negative impacts and ensure positive outcomes for any activity started during this time.
- Shravana Nakshatra: During Dussehra 2024, the Shravan Nakshatra, a highly auspicious and fruitful time, will also be present. Devotees believe this Nakshatra amplifies the positive energies of the day, ensuring success in endeavors and new beginnings.
The presence of these Yogas makes Dussehra in 2024 an incredibly potent day for performing various spiritual rituals and religious observances, with the promise of positive outcomes.
Dussehra: An Abhujh Muhurat for Auspicious Activities
One of the unique aspects of Dussehra is that it is regarded as an Abhujh Muhurat, meaning any auspicious task undertaken on this day does not require consultation of specific timings or an astrological calendar. This makes it an ideal day for activities such as:
- Housewarming ceremonies
- Starting new businesses
- Land or property purchases
- Investing in precious metals
- Marriage ceremonies
- Launching new projects
The energy of Vijayadashami is believed to ensure that all actions initiated on this day will yield fruitful results, making it a popular time for families and business owners alike to begin new chapters.
Significance of Ravana Dahan on Vijayadashami
The burning of Ravana’s effigy, commonly known as Ravana Dahan, is one of the most iconic rituals associated with Dussehra. It symbolizes the destruction of evil and the victory of righteousness. According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama fought a fierce battle with the demon king Ravana, ultimately vanquishing him and rescuing his wife Sita. The effigies of Ravana, which are stuffed with fireworks, are burned to recreate this epic battle and serve as a reminder that truth always prevails over falsehood.
Mythological Context of Ravana Dahan
Ravana, the ten-headed demon king, represents arrogance, ego, and ignorance, while Lord Rama is seen as the embodiment of dharma (righteousness), compassion, and virtue. The act of burning Ravana’s effigy is a symbolic gesture of purging the self of negative qualities like pride and greed, and embracing humility and moral values.
In various parts of India, local theatrical performances of the Ramayana, known as Ramlila, are enacted leading up to Dussehra, culminating with the spectacular burning of the effigies.
Vijayadashami Puja Vidhi (Worship Rituals)
The Dussehra puja is an important aspect of the celebration. It is customary to perform specific rituals and prayers during the day to invoke blessings and protection. Here is a brief overview of the Puja Vidhi for Dussehra 2024:
- Shami Tree Worship: According to Hindu tradition, the Shami tree is revered on Vijayadashami. Devotees offer flowers, fruits, and turmeric to the tree, seeking its blessings for prosperity and protection against evil.
- Weapon Worship (Shastra Puja): In many communities, it is customary to clean and worship weapons on this day, symbolizing the readiness to combat negative forces. This is especially significant for those in the military or security forces.
- Books and Ledger Worship: Many families and businesses worship their account books and ledgers during Vijayadashami to seek financial prosperity and success in their ventures.
- Aparajita Puja: The worship of Devi Aparajita, the goddess of victory, is also performed on this day. Offering garlands made of Aparajita flowers is believed to ensure the defeat of all adversities and challenges in life.
- Special Prayers for Lord Rama: Many devotees engage in prayers dedicated to Lord Rama, reciting hymns from the Ramayana and conducting aarti to commemorate his victory.
Spiritual Significance and the Victory of Good over Evil
Dussehra not only holds religious significance but also serves as a powerful reminder of the eternal struggle between good and evil. The festival encourages individuals to rise above their inner demons, such as anger, ego, and greed, and to embrace the path of righteousness, truth, and compassion.
By celebrating Vijayadashami, people across India reaffirm their belief in the victory of light over darkness and dharma over adharma.
