Introduction

Dussehra is one of the fascinating festivals of Hindus celebrated all over the country with religious passion and enthusiasm. The festival is observed in the month of Ashwin which usually falls in September – October. The meaning of Dussehra is “the tenth day” which is the end of ten day long festival of Navratri. The Goddess Durga is worshipped on this day which is the source of Power and Feminine Force according to the Hindu tradition.

Legend Associated with Dussehra

There are two legends associated with the festival of Dussehra. The first is that on this auspicious day Lord Rama performed Chandi Puja and evoked the blessings of Goddess Durga. The Goddess bestowed her blessing to Rama for victory against the Demon King Ravana. Ravana had abducted his wife Sita forcefully. Rama killed Ravana in a fierce battle along with his brother and son. This triumph of Rama is the center of the celebration of Dussehra. According to the second legend Goddess Durga slew monster named Mahishasura which was half buffalo and half Human. Thus the day mark the victory of Good and Truth over Evil that is symbolized in the celebration of Dussehra festival.

Mode of Celebration

Dussehra is the end of ten day Navratri celebration. On all the ten days folk play called “Ram Lila” is performed by the people. “Ram Lila” depicts the life of Lord Rama, who was the prince of Ayodhya. His life is enacted in the play and songs are sung in his praise. On the tenth day of Ram Lila which falls on Dussehra, Ravana has to be killed by Rama. To celebrate this occasion, gigantic Effigies of ten headed monster Ravana, his brother Kumbhkarna and his son Meghnad, who all represent dark force of the universe are set on flame with bursting crackers. The burning of effigies signifies the victory of Good over Evil. In the present context, it is the effort of ours for destroying our inner ego and evils and illuminating the self with peace and love.