Dussehra Holiday: About Vijayadashami Festival in India

With the festive season around the corner, India eagerly prepares to celebrate Vijayadashami 2024, also known as Dussehra, one of the most auspicious festivals. It's a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil.

Read along to discover about the Dussehra festival date, and how to celebrate this season without any financial stress.

What is the Significance of Dussehra?

Vijayadashami, celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar calendar month of Ashwin, honours the triumph of Lord Rama over Ravana. As per the epic Ramayana, Lord Rama, with the help of his faithful friend Hanuman and an army of monkeys, engaged in a battle against Ravana to rescue his wife, Sita, who was kidnapped by the demon king Ravana.

The conclusion of this legendary battle was marked by Rama's arrow defeating Ravana, symbolising the victory of righteousness over evil. Vijayadashami signifies the success of goodness, bravery, and fairness.

Beyond its mythological roots and regional variations, Vijayadashami holds profound symbolism that resonates with people across generations:

1. Victory of Good over Evil: The celebration of this festival upholds moral values, stands against injustice, and strives for harmony in society.

2. Renewal and Resilience: As the festival coincides with the onset of autumn, it also symbolises the renewal of life and the spirit of resilience. It encourages people to let go of negativity, embrace positivity, and embark on new journeys with hope and optimism.

What is the Date of the Celebration of Dussehra in 2024?

Dussehra 2024 date falls on October 12, 2024, and is celebrated on the 10th day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashvin (Ashwayuja), according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It marks the triumphant conclusion of Navratri, a nine-night festival dedicated to honouring various forms of Goddess Durga. Across India, celebrations include vibrant processions, traditional dances, and the ceremonial burning of effigies, embodying the spirit of renewal and triumph.

Places to Celebrate Dussehra 2024

Now that the Dussehra holidays are around the corner, it's the best time for you to plan your travels and enjoy the festive vibes. If you are wondering which cities' Vijayadashmi celebration will be worth attending, then do not worry; we have got you covered. Here’s a detailed list of places that you can visit to enjoy the Vijayadashmi celebration:

1. Delhi: The beauty of colourful fairy lights, the excitement, and obviously the crazy trade fairs of Delhi are what everyone looks for to enjoy during the festive season. During Dussehra, the city offers the best grand fairs and Ram Leela performances at Ramlila Maidan.
   As Chandni Chowk brims with excitement, the climax of Dussehra arrives on its 10th day with the burning of the statues of Ravana, Kumbhkaran, and Meghnad reflecting fireworks that dazzle the night sky. Also, if you want to dive deeper into the local culture, head over to Chittaranjan Park, where you'll find colourful pandals dedicated to Goddess Durga.

2. Varanasi: Varanasi, one of India's oldest and holiest cities, immerses visitors in its mythical grandeur during the 10-day Navratri festival, culminating in Dussehra. This time is especially vibrant in Varanasi, known as a city where Hindus come to cleanse their sins.
   The Ram Leela performances here have a rich history dating back to the 1800s, believed to have been initiated by Maharaja Udai Narayan Singh of Benaras. Watching Ram Leela during this period is considered auspicious, with performances staged near the historic Ramnagar Fort.

3. Mysore: In South India, particularly in Mysore, the festival of Vijayadashmi, celebrating the triumph of good over evil, is a grand affair. Lasting for ten days, Mysore Palace dazzles with over 100,000 light bulbs. The festivities include a majestic procession featuring adorned elephants, music bands, fireworks, traditional dance performances, horses, and decorated camels.
   Dating back to the 15th century under the Vijayanagara Empire, Mysore Dasara continues to honour the victory of Rama over Ravana in spectacular fashion. To experience this cultural extravaganza, witness the Dasara procession outside Mysore Palace.

4. Ahmedabad: During the nine-day Dussehra celebrations in Gujarat, Dandiya Ras Garba, the region's traditional dance, takes centre stage. Ahmedabad, renowned for its festive spirit, is one of India's top destinations for celebrating Dussehra 2024. Throughout the festival, people dance to folk songs and savour delicious food.
   Men and women adorn themselves in traditional attire such as Kedias and lehenga cholis, while Ahmedabad itself dazzles with bridal-like decorations. Joining the Garba dance, attending Goddess Durga's aarti, and dressing in Gujarati attire promise unforgettable experiences during this festive season in Gujarat.

5. Madikeri, Karnataka: Dussehra in Madikeri spans ten festive days, and it is celebrated more like a lively carnival than just a religious event. With a history dating back over a century, it ranks as the second most popular Dussehra festival in the region after Mysore Dasara. The mantapa processions from ten temples, starting on the ninth day and culminating on Vijayadashami, are the highlight of the celebrations.
   Crowds gather to witness these ornate mantapas, each with its own mythological tale. You can immerse yourself in music, festivities, and mountain air, enjoying feasts and observing parades featuring figures from traditional stories.

Enjoy the Festive Vibes Without the Stress of Finances!

Now that you know the details about the Dussehra festival and the 2024 Dussehra date, you can plan your festive celebrations on priority. This Dussehra festival, whether you are looking to enjoy the lights of Delhi or the aarti in Madukeri or plan to celebrate with your family, you can easily make it true without stressing arranging finances due to the Dussehra bank holidays.

KreditBee a reliable online lending platform that is 24x7 hours available and allows you to access instant funds for amounts ranging from ₹ 1,000 to ₹5 lakhs. With a few easy, straightforward, and hassle-free steps, you can apply for the loan amount from the comfort of your home.

So, take the festive vibes and enjoyment to the next level with your financial friend. Download the KreditBee loan app and avail yourself of the loan amount at an affordable interest rate.

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