Dussehra 2024: Date, Time, Puja Vidhi, Shubh Mahurat and everything you need to know

Dussehra is also known as Vijayadashami. It is considered one of the most important Hindu festivals. It represents the victory of good over evil. It celebrates the battle of Lord Ram with the ten-headed demon lord Ravana as well as the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. Here you will find all the important details Dussehra 2024including the exact date and time, Puja Vidhi, Shubh Muhuratand its meaning.

Dussehra 2024: When is Vijayadashmi?

This year, Dussehra falls on Saturday, October 12, 2024. The Dashami Tithi (the tenth day of the lunar calendar) begins on October 12 at 10:58 am and ends on October 13 at 9:08 am. Although the Dashami tithe extends to October 13, Dussehra is celebrated especially on October 12 with major festivities, including Ravana Dahan, the burning of Ravana's effigy.
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Dussehra 2024: When is Shubh Muhurat?

The Shubh Muhurat for Dussehra is very important for those who want to perform the rituals at the most auspicious time. According to Drik Panchang:
– Vijay Muhurat: From 2:03 pm to 2:49 pm on October 12, 2024.
– Aparahna Puja Time: From 1:17 pm to 3:35 pm on October 12, 2024.
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The Shravana Nakshatra, considered auspicious, begins on October 12 at 5:25 am and ends on October 13 at 4:27 am. Performing Dussehra rituals within this time period is believed to bring the most blessings, luck and success.

See more:Happy Dussehra 2024: Best Messages, Quotes, Wishes and Images to Share on Vijayadashami

Dussehra 2024: What are the Puja Vidhi (rituals)?

India celebrates Dussehra with a variety of customs and rituals. The central theme of the celebration – the celebration of the triumph of good over evil – remains the same. This is how the puja is usually performed:

Read More: Happy Dussehra 2024: Best Messages, Quotes, Wishes and Images to Share on Vijayadashami
In the evening, huge effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakaran and his son Meghnath are burned to represent the end of evil and the triumph of good. This is the most anticipated element of the celebration for many as it is said to bring good luck.

Image: Istock

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Dussehra 2024: What is the significance of this festival?

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a significant spiritual and cultural day. The term “Vijayadashami” is derived from two Sanskrit words: Vijaya (victory) and Dashami (tenth) and refers to the triumph of good over evil on the tenth day of the Navratri festival.
According to Ramayana, Lord Ram defeated the demon king Ravana who had kidnapped his wife Sita. Dussehra is celebrated to mark the end of this battle and symbolize the victory of truth, virtue and justice over evil.
In many parts of India, especially West Bengal, Dussehra coincides with Durga Puja. It commemorates the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura and symbolizes the victory of divine power over malevolence.
Dussehra also marks the end of the nine-day Navratri festival, a time dedicated to worshiping the nine forms of Goddess Durga. It is considered to be the last day to offer prayers to the goddess before bidding farewell to her by immersing her idol.

Dussehra 2024: Why is it celebrated?

Dussehra teaches us that no matter how powerful evil may seem, it will ultimately be defeated through justice and good deeds. Burning of Ravana's effigy on Dussehra signifies the end of negativity and bad karma. This day also encourages people to embrace kindness and positivity in their lives.
Different regions have special customs such as the Sindoor Khela in West Bengal (where women smear each other with sindoor) and the Dhunuchi dance. The festival is not only a religious holiday but also a cultural celebration that brings communities together.
India celebrates Dussehra with great enthusiasm. This occasion serves as an important reminder that good always triumphs over evil. Be it Goddess Durga's victory over Mahishasura or Lord Ram's victory over the ten-headed demon Ravana, the celebration celebrates the value of justice, valor and righteousness. Large crowds gather to see the legendary Ravana Dahan. People celebrate this important victory with joyful processions and customs.