Dussehra – a reminder to overcome inner demons

Dussehra is an occasion to reflect on our own lives, confront personal demons, and strive for self-improvement. It serves as a reminder to overcome negativity in our thoughts and actions. In that sense, Dussehra is not just a festive occasion but a time for spiritual awakening and renewal. The celebration of this festival can become more meaningful if we identify the shortcomings of character that make our life less worthy, and work on removing one or more of them.

- B.K. USHA

The festival of Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, holds profound spiritual significance, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Celebrated on the tenth day of the month of Ashwin in the Hindu calendar, it marks the deity Ram's victory over Ravan. The demon king Ravan personifies evil, and his defeat by Ram, who represents God, symbolizes the end of unrighteousness in the world.

In cities and towns across India, effigies of Ravan, his brother Kumbhakaran, and son Meghnad are burnt on Dussehra to signify the destruction of evil. In many regions, Dussehra also celebrates the victory of goddess Durga, representing the power of feminine divinity, over the demon Mahishasur. This aspect highlights the strength, resilience, and protection that the goddess offers to her devotees.