Dussehra

Dussehra, traditionally called Dashahara, is celebrated on the 10th day of the waxing moon (Shukla Dashami) in the month of Ashvin.

It marks the victory of Shri Ram over the ten-headed Ravana and symbolizes the triumph of righteousness over evil.

According to the Ramayana, Shri Ram accepted 14 years of exile and lived in the forest with Mother Sita and Lakshman. During this time, Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka, abducted Mother Sita. Shri Ram, with the help of Lakshman and an army of devoted allies, reached Lanka and defeated Ravana on this day. This victory is remembered as Vijaya Dashami—victory over the ten headed Ravana.

In the devotional tradition, this festival is celebrated through Ram Leela—dramatic enactments of Shri Ram’s pastimes over ten days—culminating in the burning of Ravana’s effigy. Devotees chant the name of Shri Ram, read the Ramayana, and decorate their homes with scenes from His life. These practices help the mind remain absorbed in God and transform the festival into an act of remembrance and devotion.

For a seeker, Dashahara carries a deeper meaning. This is God's victory over many Mayic tendencies that bind the soul—desire, anger, pride, attachment, and illusion. On this day invite Shri Ram to destroy those inner obstacles through divine grace. True celebration lies not in outer festivity, but in increasing one’s remembrance and devotion to God.

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