When is Dussehra 2024? Know Vijayadashami date, timings, rituals, celebration and more

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, symbolising the victory of good over evil. This day celebrates Lord Rama's triumph over the demon king Ravana and Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura. Let's explore the Dussehra 2024 date, rituals, timings, and significance and more about the auspicious day.

Dussehra 2024: Date and Timings

In 2024, Dussehra will be celebrated on October 12, 2024. The festival is observed on the tenth day, or Dashami Tithi, of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwina. For Dussehra 2024, Dashami Tithi starts at 10:58 AM on October 12, 2024 and ends at 09:08 AM on October 13, 2024.

Key timings to note for the Dussehra 2024 celebration are:

What is the time of Ravana Dahan today?

The auspicious timing for the burning Ravana effigies will be from 5:53 pm to 7:27 pm on October 12, 2024.

(Source: Times Now Hindi)

In West Bengal, Vijayadashami will be celebrated on October 13, 2024, marking the conclusion of Durga Puja with grand celebrations and rituals.

Significance of Dussehra

Dussehra holds deep religious importance, as it represents the ultimate victory of righteousness. The term Dussehra comes from two Sanskrit words: Dasha, meaning "ten," and Hara, meaning "defeat." This signifies the defeat of the ten-headed demon Ravana by Lord Rama. Each of Ravana's ten heads symbolises a different human vice, including Mada (Pride), Ghrina (Hate), Kama (Lust), Bhaye (Fear), Moha (Attachment), Krodha (Anger), Ahankar (Ego), Lobha (Greed), Jaddata (Insensibility), and Irshya (Envy). Dussehra reminds us of the importance of overcoming these vices to lead a virtuous life.

The festival also celebrates the end of Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to worshipping the goddess Durga. In many regions, it is also associated with Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of good over evil forces.

Why is seeing a Neelkanth bird on Dussehra considered lucky?

It is believed that certain acts on Dussehra can bring good luck. A common superstition is that spotting a Neelkanth bird on Dussehra helps clear one¡¯s sins. Some also believe that if you see the bird and make a wish, it will carry the wish to Lord Shiva, who will grant it.

Neelkanth Bird, Considered Lucky for Lord Ram in Defeating Ravana

Seeing a Neelkanth bird ¡ª the Indian roller bird that Lord Ram is said to have seen before his journey to defeat Ravana ¡ª is thought to be fortunate on Dussehra. The Neelkanth, another name for Lord Shiva, is highly regarded by Hindus. In North India, people say, "Neelkanth, you stay blue, feast on rice and milk, and convey our wishes to Ram."

Dussehra 2024 Rituals

Dussehra rituals vary across different regions, but common traditions include:

• Prayers and Offerings: Devotees offer prayers to Lord Rama and other deities, seeking their blessings.
• Ramlila Performances: Communities stage dramatic reenactments of the Ramayana, showcasing the life and struggles of Lord Rama.
• Burning of Effigies: The festival is marked by the burning of giant effigies of Ravana, Meghnada, and Kumbhakarna to symbolise the victory of good.
• Shastra Puja: Many families perform a traditional ritual called Shastra Puja, where tools, weapons, and implements are worshipped.
• Pandal Decorations: Pandals are set up and beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, especially during Durga Puja in West Bengal.
• Idol Immersion: In regions like Kolkata, idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in water bodies, marking the conclusion of Durga Puja.
• These rituals reflect the essence of Dussehra celebrations, bringing together communities and families in joyous harmony.

Dussehra 2024 Celebrations Across India

Dussehra celebrations vary across India, with each region adding its unique cultural flavor to the festival.

• Delhi: The capital city witnesses grand Dussehra 2024 celebrations, with large fairs, Ramleela performances, and the burning of Ravana¡¯s effigy. It is a time of joyous gatherings and festivities for families.
• Mysore: Known for its royal grandeur, Mysore Dasara is a spectacular celebration with the palace lit up and grand processions through the city streets.
• Kullu: In the picturesque town of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, Dussehra 2024 will be marked by vibrant fairs, cultural performances, and markets selling local handicrafts.
• Kolkata: In West Bengal, Dussehra coincides with the end of Durga Puja. The last day, known as Vijayadashami, is celebrated with the Sindoor Khela tradition and the immersion of Goddess Durga¡¯s idols in rivers.

Why Dussehra is Celebrated

The story behind Dussehra dates back to the Ramayana. It celebrates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, marking the triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (evil). In another tale, it celebrates Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura, representing the power of divine forces against evil.

Dussehra history

The Story of Dussehra: Lord Rama and the Defeat of Ravana

In Hindu mythology, Dussehra is closely linked to the story of Lord Rama. Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, coveted Lord Rama¡¯s wife, Sita, and kidnapped her. He took her to his kingdom, Lanka, where she was held captive. Determined to rescue Sita, Lord Rama, along with his brother Lakshman, and an army of monkeys led by Lord Hanuman, traveled to Lanka. After a fierce battle lasting ten days, Lord Rama defeated and killed Ravana on the tenth day. This day is celebrated as Dussehra, marking the victory of good over evil. The first nine days, known as Navratri, lead up to this event, and on the tenth day, large effigies of Ravana are burned to symbolise the triumph of righteousness.

The Story of Vijayadashami: Goddess Durga¡¯s Victory Over Mahishasura

In another significant tale, particularly in the eastern and northern regions of India, Dussehra is celebrated as Vijayadashami, commemorating the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Mahishasura was a powerful demon who terrorised the Earth, and the gods sought the help of Goddess Durga to defeat him. After a battle lasting nine days, on the tenth day, Durga slayed Mahishasura, bringing peace to the world. This day is celebrated as Vijayadashami, which means "the victory on the tenth day." In Northern and Western India, people fast during Navratri to honour the nine forms of Durga. However, in Eastern India, especially during Durga Puja, it is a time of grand celebrations, and on the tenth day, the idols of Goddess Durga are immersed in water, marking the end of the festival.

Dussehra 2024: A Time for Celebration and Togetherness

Apart from its mythological importance, Dussehra in 2024 will be a time for families to come together and enjoy the festivities. People will take part in various rituals, cultural performances, and celebrate the core values of courage, unity, and righteousness. This festival continues to remind everyone of the ultimate victory of good over evil, bringing hope and positivity to all.

(Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.)

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