The History of Dussehra / Navratri Festival

The History of Dussehra Festival and the Day-Wise Names of Devi in Navratri

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most revered festivals in Hindu culture, celebrated across India with fervor and devotion. It falls on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashvin, following nine days of Navratri. The festival commemorates two significant events: Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana in the epic Ramayana and Goddess Durga’s triumph over the buffalo demon Mahishasura, as mentioned in Hindu mythology. These stories serve as reminders of the timeless message that good will always prevail over evil.

Historical Significance of Dussehra

The origins of Dussehra can be traced back to ancient Hindu scriptures. In northern India, the festival is closely linked to the Ramayana, in which Lord Rama, with the help of his brother Lakshmana, Lord Hanuman, and an army of monkeys, defeats the demon king Ravana, who had abducted his wife, Sita. Dussehra marks the day Lord Rama achieved victory, symbolizing the triumph of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (evil). Effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna, and his son Meghnath are burned in many parts of India as part of the Dussehra celebrations, representing the destruction of evil.

In contrast, in the eastern and southern parts of India, particularly in West Bengal, Dussehra is linked to Goddess Durga. According to mythology, the demon Mahishasura was terrorizing the heavens and the earth, and the gods sought help from Durga to vanquish him. After a fierce battle lasting nine days, Durga finally killed Mahishasura on the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami. This victory symbolizes the triumph of the divine feminine power over chaos and disorder. The last day of Durga Puja, which coincides with Dussehra, is marked by the immersion of Durga’s idols in water bodies, bidding her farewell until the next year.

Day-Wise Names of Devi During Navratri

Navratri, the nine-day festival leading up to Dussehra, is dedicated to the nine different forms of Goddess Durga. Each day is dedicated to one of her avatars, with special prayers, rituals, and celebrations.

1. Day 1 – Shailaputri:
   Shailaputri, meaning "daughter of the mountains," is the first form of Durga worshipped. She represents the embodiment of power and nature.

2. Day 2 – Brahmacharini:
   Brahmacharini symbolizes penance and devotion. She is worshipped for wisdom, knowledge, and virtue.

3. Day 3 – Chandraghanta:
   This form of Durga represents bravery and courage. Chandraghanta is known for protecting her devotees from evil.

4. Day 4 – Kushmanda:
   Kushmanda is believed to be the creator of the universe, bringing energy and light to the cosmos.

5. Day 5 – Skandamata:
   Skandamata, the mother of Lord Kartikeya (Skanda), is worshipped for her nurturing and protective nature.

6. Day 6 – Katyayani:
   Katyayani is a warrior goddess who is worshipped to remove obstacles and difficulties in life.

7. Day 7 – Kalaratri:
   Kalaratri, the fiercest form of Durga, represents the destruction of evil forces. She brings courage and dispels fear.

8. Day 8 – Mahagauri:
   Mahagauri symbolizes purity and tranquility. She blesses her devotees with inner peace and prosperity.

9. Day 9 – Siddhidatri:
   Siddhidatri is the goddess of supernatural powers or siddhis. She is worshipped to gain spiritual enlightenment and divine blessings.

Cultural Celebrations Across India

Dussehra is celebrated in various ways across India. In northern regions, people enact the Ramayana through performances called Ramlila, culminating in the burning of Ravana’s effigies on Dussehra. In West Bengal, the festival coincides with the final day of Durga Puja, marked by grand processions and idol immersions. In southern India, particularly in Karnataka, Dussehra is celebrated with elaborate processions, such as the famous Mysore Dussehra, showcasing a blend of cultural and religious traditions.

Conclusion

Dussehra is a festival that reminds us of the eternal battle between good and evil. Through the stories of Lord Rama and Goddess Durga, the festival instills a sense of hope, courage, and moral righteousness. As we celebrate Dussehra, we are reminded of the importance of inner strength and the victory of truth over deception, ensuring that goodness always prevails.