Vijayadashami

Vijayadashami is one of the biggest Hindu festivals every year at the end of Navratri on the 10th day of the Hindu calendar in autumn (September or October). Here are some interesting facts about this special occasion and how to take part in it.

History

Vijayadashami is throughout India and has different meanings in different areas. In some regions, it symbolizes the triumph of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura, while in other places it marks the end of Ramlila and the victory of the god Rama over Ravana. Rituals include taking clay statues of Durga, Saraswati, Lakshmi, and other gods to the water and setting them on a journey to the sacred mountain Kailash, as well as burning paper images or effigies of Ravana to symbolize the burning of evil. In addition, theatrical performances depicting historical scenes take place on the streets for 10 days.

Interesting facts

The 10 heads of Ravana symbolize 10 negative human emotions such as greed, pride, cruelty, jealousy, anger, and others. By burning the effigy of Ravana, people believe that they are getting rid of their shortcomings.

How to take part

• Worship Durga at a special prayer room or at the home altar in the morning, asking for family peace and wealth.
• Paint a Rangoli ornament at the front door to attract the Goddess of Wealth. Use rice flour, sand, or special colored powders for its creation.
• Light holiday garlands and candles. Also use diis – clay oil lamps for rituals. It is believed that the oil inside the lamp symbolizes sins, but when people light it, they “burn out” those sins.
• Make an effigy of the demon king Ravana and burn it with fireworks or use a fireplace or stove if the ritual is performed at home.
• Wear bright new clothes and decorate yourself with gold. This symbolizes having many new clothes in the new year.
• Prepare a vegetarian festive dinner for the whole family and distribute sweets to friends and acquaintances.

When is Vijayadashami in 2024?

Vijayadashami is observed on October 24 each year.

Observations