Dussehra's significance: From Mahishasura's defeat to Ravana's demise

Dussehra, a unifying celebration of valor and devotion in the face of daunting challenges. (Representative Image)

Today, across the entire nation, the auspicious occasion of Dussehra is being celebrated. This annual festival serves as a tribute to the courage and conquests of two revered figures, Goddess Durga and Lord Rama, who overcame formidable adversaries, Mahishasura and Ravana, respectively.

In the mystical land of India, there existed two distinct tales, each weaving a unique narrative into the fabric of the country's rich culture and traditions. Both stories highlight the victory of righteousness, making Dussehra a unifying celebration of valor and devotion in the face of daunting challenges.

Arrogance, immortality quest meets divine wrath: The legend of Mahishasura's defeat by Goddess Durga

In different parts of the country, people celebrated a festival known as Dussehra, which symbolised the victory of good over evil. This celebration was dedicated to the triumph of the fierce goddess Durga over the formidable Mahishasura. The story went that Mahishasura had sought immortality through relentless penance, but when it was revealed to him that such a wish was impossible, he instead asked that he could not be defeated by a man. Mahishasura's arrogance led him to believe that no woman could possibly defeat him. Little did he know that his arrogant wish would be his undoing.

With the ability to transform into any form, Mahishasura began an offensive against the sky, the Earth and the underworld. Over time, Mahishasura's power and tyranny grew and he waged war against the heavens defeating even the gods. His unquenchable strength and an army of demons wreaked devastation and posed a serious threat to the gods of heaven and Earth as well as to humankind on Earth.

The gods were left helpless and they turned to the divine trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva for help. In response, a powerful and radiant energy emerged from their combined essence, forming the divine Goddess Durga. Goddess Durga equipped with multiple arms, each carrying a weapon bestowed by various gods and riding a lion, descended to confront Mahishasura in a fierce battle that raged on for nine days and nights. In this way, the goddess came to the rescue of humanity. The nine-day-long battle culminated in the slaying of the demon on the tenth day. This tenth day was celebrated as Dussehra, signifying the victory of righteousness over evil.

The day Rama annihilated Ravana's ten evil faces

In the Northern states, the story unfolded in a different manner, with a connection to Lord Rama, the seventh incarnation of Vishnu. This tale centred around the legendary battle between Rama and the 10-headed demon king of Lanka, Ravana. According to the epic Ramayana, Ravana had kidnapped Rama's beloved wife, Sita. He had acquired a boon from Lord Brahma that made him nearly indestructible.

Yet, Rama, in his unwavering devotion and determination, circumvented this boon and engaged Ravana in a fierce battle. On the day when Rama finally emerged victorious, it became known as Dussehra. The word "Dussehra" itself held a profound meaning, as "Dus" meant ten and "Hara" meant annihilated, signifying the day when the ten evil heads of Ravana were destroyed by the valiant Lord Rama.

Ramlila brings the Ramayana to life this Dussehra

Throughout the Northern states of India, this festival was a time of joy and celebration, as people came together to commemorate the enduring legacy of Rama and the courage he displayed in the face of adversity. Elaborate processions, colourful Ramlila performances and the burning of effigies of Ravana were common sights during this festival.

Ramlila, a unique tradition, was a prominent part of Dussehra celebrations. It was a dramatic reenactment of the Ramayana, a series of scenes that featured song, narration, recital and dialogue. This enchanting performance took place across various cities, including Ayodhya, Ramnagar, Benares, Vrindavan, Almora, Sattna and Madhubani, and was held annually in the autumn according to the ritual calendar. Ramlila drew its inspiration from the Ramcharitmanas, a storytelling masterpiece composed by the revered poet Tulsidas.

Dussehra marks the eternal conquest of good over evil

Thus, in the land of India, Dussehra was a kaleidoscope of these two remarkable stories, the divine battles and victories of goddess and god with the colourful celebrations of the people. It was a time for reflection, joy, and the collective recognition that, no matter the form or place, good would always emerge triumphant over evil.

The festival unites people across the nation, fostering a sense of unity and pride. So, amid the colours, lights, and ceremonial spectacle, the people of the country come together today to celebrate not just a festival but a reflection of their enduring faith in the eternal victory of righteousness.