Vijayadashami,also known as Dussehra symbolizes the victory of good over evil. It marks the beginning preparation of Diwali, which occurs 20 days after dussehra. Dussehra is celebrated with great fervour and funfare in different parts of the Country.
The Festival Celebrates the defeat of Ravana and Rama. In few other States it celebrates the killing of the Demon, Mahishasura, in the hand of Goddess Shakti. The word Shakti means power in Sanskrit. During the same day people worship their work instruments and vehicles. It is believed that people have a fresh start of their work or job whatever they do from the ninth day of dussehra.
This festival is celebrated in the Various states of India and also in parts of Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar and Dashain. On the Contrary, in many places of South India, the festival is celebrated in the honor of Maa Saraswati- Hindu Goddess of Knowledge and Arts. Goddess Laxmi is worshipped in the first three days, as she is said to be the best of wealth and prosperity and the last three days dedicated to Maa Shakti Durga victory over demon Mahishasura.
Most of the Northern States of India see this festival as the day Rama Killed the King Of Lanka, Ravana and celebrates the Victory of good over evil. While in many other States many people see the festival is dedicated to Victory of Maa Durga over the evil demon Mahishasura. She challenged the demon and fought with him in a nine- day long battle, ultimately defeating him on the tenth day. This is why we celebrate Navratri for nine long days, with each day dedicated to nine avatars of Maa Durga. Dussehra also marks the day when Arjuna, Single handedly put the huge Kaurava army to sleep by invoking the Sammohan Astra.
Dussehra is considered as an auspicious day to begin with new investments and work. In the States of Gujrat, Maharashtra and West Bengal, fasting and prayers are commonly observed with devotees performing Garba, Dandiya Rass till the ninth day of Celebration.On the tenth day, Maa Durga’s idol is immersed in water signifying her return to Mount Kailash with Lord Shiva.
