Vijayadashami, commonly known as Dussehra, is a highly significant festival in India, marking the culmination of the Navratri celebrations. The term ‘Vijayadashami’ is derived from Sanskrit and translates to ‘Victory on the Tenth Day,’ signifying Lord Rama’s triumphant return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana in Lanka.
This festival is celebrated in various ways across different regions of India. In the eastern states, the grand finale of Durga Puja involves the application of vermilion to the foreheads of participants. In the northern and central states, the festival symbolizes Lord Rama’s victory and is celebrated by burning effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad. In the southern states, it includes the worship of Goddess Saraswati alongside tools, instruments, and weapons as an expression of gratitude for the means of their livelihood.