Dussehra 2025: Stories, Rituals, And How India Celebrates

Dussehra, or Vijayadashami , is one of India’s most vibrant festivals, symbolizing the eternal victory of good over evil. Falling on the tenth day of Navratri, it celebrates Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana and Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura. Each region of India adds its own flair, making Dussehra a true showcase of the country’s rich cultural tapestry.

What is Dussehra?

The name 'Vijayadashami' means 'victory on the tenth day.' Celebrated right after nine nights of Navratri and Durga Puja, it honors courage, devotion, and righteousness. In North India, the focus is on Lord Rama’s victory in the Ramayana, while in Eastern India, the festival marks the grand immersion of Goddess Durga’s idols.

Dussehra 2025 Date and Muhurat

This year, Dussehra falls on Thursday, October 2, 2025. The Vijay Muhurat, the most auspicious time for rituals, will be in the afternoon. Performing puja during this period is believed to bring blessings, prosperity, and success.

Mythological Significance

Lord Rama and Ravana: The most famous tale is from the Ramayana. Lord Rama, with Goddess Durga’s blessings, battled Ravana to rescue Sita. On the tenth day, Rama’s victory is celebrated with the dramatic burning of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnad effigies.

Goddess Durga and Mahishasura: In Bengal and other regions, Dussehra marks the final day of Durga Puja. After nine days of fierce battle, Goddess Durga vanquished the buffalo demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of divine feminine power over evil.

Regional Beliefs: Across India, Dussehra carries local legends. In some states, it’s when Arjuna revealed hidden weapons; in others, it marks Ayudha Puja, honoring tools, vehicles, and instruments.

Rituals and Traditions: Dussehra blends devotion, performance, and community spirit. Ram Leela, the enactment of the Ramayana, draws crowds to theaters and open grounds. Evenings light up with effigy burning. In the south, Ayudha Puja and Vijayadashami rituals see people worship tools and vehicles. Navratri fasts are often broken on this day. Fairs, cultural programs, and processions add energy to the celebrations.

Dussehra Across India: In North India, giant Ravana effigies are set ablaze amid Ram Leela performances. West Bengal witnesses Durga Visarjan, immersing idols in rivers. South India celebrates with Ayudha Puja and the Golu festival. In Maharashtra, people exchange Apta tree leaves, considered symbols of gold. Mysuru Dussehra in Karnataka stands out with royal processions, decorated elephants, and grand festivities.

Festive Foods: Food is central to Dussehra. Traditional sweets like jalebi, barfi, laddoo, and kheer are prepared, along with savory feasts shared among family and friends. Offerings made to deities are later distributed as prasad, spreading joy and togetherness.

Spiritual and Cultural Significance: Dussehra is more than rituals, it’s a life lesson. It highlights truth, courage, and dharma. Vijayadashami is considered auspicious for starting new ventures, education, or buying new possessions. Beyond celebrations, it strengthens community bonds, bringing people together in joy and devotion.

Dussehra reminds everyone that no matter how powerful evil seems, goodness, courage, and devotion always triumph in the end.