Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated with great fervor across India. This festival marks the victory of good over evil, symbolized by Lord Rama’s triumph over the demon king Ravana. In 2024, Dussehra will be celebrated on Saturday, October 12. Let’s dive into the date, time, muhurat for Ravana Dahan, and the cultural significance of this auspicious day.

Significance of Dussehra

Dussehra is celebrated on the tenth day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Ashwin. According to Hindu mythology, it commemorates the day when Lord Rama defeated Ravana, signifying the victory of truth over falsehood and righteousness over wickedness.

The festival is observed by burning effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna, symbolizing the destruction of evil forces. In some parts of India, grand processions and Ramlila performances (dramatic reenactments of the life of Lord Rama) are organized to depict the epic battle between Lord Rama and Ravana.

Dussehra 2024 Date and Muhurat

Dussehra 2024 Date:

In 2024, Dussehra falls on October 12, which is a Saturday. This day is considered highly auspicious for performing various rituals and starting new ventures.

Dashami Tithi Timing:

• Begins: 10:58 AM on October 12, 2024
• Ends: 9:08 AM on October 13, 2024

Shravan Nakshatra:

• Begins: 5:25 AM on October 12, 2024
• Ends: 4:27 AM on October 13, 2024

Vijay Muhurat:

• Timing: 2:03 PM – 2:49 PM on October 12, 2024

Aparahna Puja Timing:

• Timing: 1:16 PM – 3:35 PM on October 12, 2024

Ravana Dahan Muhurat:

The most important ritual of Dussehra is the burning of Ravana’s effigy, known as Ravana Dahan. This ritual is performed during the Pradosh Kaal (evening twilight), which symbolizes the annihilation of evil and the restoration of dharma.

• Ravana Dahan Muhurat: 5:54 PM to 7:27 PM on October 12, 2024

Why is Dussehra Celebrated?

Dussehra is celebrated to honor the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana, signifying the triumph of good over evil. The day also marks the culmination of the nine-day Navratri festival, which is dedicated to the worship of the Goddess Durga.

Apart from the religious significance, Dussehra holds cultural importance as well. It is a day when people come together to celebrate their shared heritage, indulge in cultural activities, and reinforce their faith in the power of goodness.

Celebrations Across India

1. North India: In cities like Delhi, Lucknow, and Varanasi, Dussehra is marked by the burning of gigantic effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad. Ramlila performances are organized, depicting scenes from the Ramayana.
2. West Bengal: In West Bengal, Dussehra coincides with the immersion of Durga idols, marking the end of the five-day Durga Puja festival. The day is celebrated with processions and cultural performances.
3. Mysore: In Mysore, Karnataka, Dussehra is celebrated as a royal festival. The Mysore Palace is illuminated, and a grand procession, including the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, is carried on a golden howdah mounted on a decorated elephant.
4. Kullu: The Kullu Dussehra in Himachal Pradesh is unique, as it continues for a week. It is marked by cultural processions, folk dances, and the worship of Lord Raghunath.

The Auspiciousness of Vijayadashami

Vijayadashami is considered an “Abujh Muhurat,” meaning that the entire day is deemed favorable for starting new ventures. Be it starting a new business, undertaking a journey, or performing a Griha Pravesh (housewarming), no specific muhurat needs to be consulted. The day is believed to bring success and prosperity.

However, it is important to note that during this time, the gods are believed to be in their resting phase (Devshayan), so activities like weddings and housewarming ceremonies are avoided.

Rituals Performed on Dussehra

1. Shastra Puja (Weapon Worship): This ritual involves worshipping weapons and tools to honor the power of strength and victory, symbolizing the defeat of evil.
2. Ravana Dahan: The effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna are burnt in large gatherings, often accompanied by fireworks and celebrations.
3. Ayudha Puja: In South India, people worship their tools, vehicles, and instruments, symbolizing the divinity in every object that helps in earning a livelihood.
4. Simollanghan: In Maharashtra, people perform Simollanghan, where they cross the borders of their village and pluck leaves from the Apta tree. These leaves, symbolizing gold, are exchanged as a gesture of goodwill.