Mumbai: Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most celebrated festivals in Hinduism. It marks the triumph of good over evil and holds great importance in Hindu mythology. Celebrated on the tenth day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashwin, Dussehra signifies Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, and Goddess Durga’s defeat of Mahishasura. Effigies of Ravana are burnt on this day, symbolising the destruction of evil forces.
In 2024, Dussehra falls on Saturday, 12th October 2024, and here’s a detailed look at the important timings (muhurats) and rituals to observe.
The Dashami Tithi begins at 10:58 AM on 12th October and ends at 9:08 AM on 13th October. Since festivals are observed based on sunrise, Dussehra 2024 will officially be celebrated on 12th October.
Ravan Dahan Muhurat 2024: Best Time for Effigy Burning
A highlight of Dussehra is the Ravan Dahan ceremony, where effigies of Ravana are set aflame. In 2024, the most auspicious time for Ravan Dahan is during the Pradosh Kaal—the twilight period. The muhurat falls between 5:53 PM and 7:27 PM on 12th October 2024.
Shastra Puja Muhurat 2024
Shastra Puja, or the worship of weapons, is an integral part of Dussehra celebrations. This ritual is symbolic of honouring strength and protection. In 2024, the auspicious time for Shastra Puja falls between 2:03 PM and 2:49 PM.
Dussehra Puja Muhurat 2024
The general Dussehra Puja also shares the same muhurat as the Shastra Puja—between 2:03 PM and 2:49 PM on 12th October.
Puja Samagri
To perform the Dussehra Puja, you will need:
Cow dung for rituals
Oil lamps (Diya), incense sticks (Dhup), wicks
Sacred thread (Janeu)
Red sandalwood paste (Roli), holy thread (Moli)
Rice grains (Akshat), kumkum, and sandalwood paste
These items are essential to ensure that the Dussehra puja is conducted with sanctity and devotion.
Dussehra Puja Vidhi
Performing the Dussehra Puja during the Abhijit Muhurat is highly auspicious. Here’s a guide to the traditional ritual:
Face the Northeast (Ishaan Kon): Begin your puja facing the northeast direction, believed to bring positive energy.
Purify the Area: Use Gangajal to sanctify the space where the rituals will be held.
Create an Eight-Petaled Lotus: Draw an Ashtadal lotus symbol using petals, representing prosperity.
Worship Goddess Aparajita: Invoke Goddess Aparajita to seek blessings for victory, happiness, and prosperity.
Offer Prayers to Lord Rama and Hanuman: As part of the tradition, offer sweets and fruits as bhog to Lord Rama and Hanuman.
Conclude with Aarti: End the ceremony with an aarti, distributing prasad to family and neighbours.
Significance of Dussehra
Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, is much more than a celebration—it’s a reminder of the ultimate triumph of good over evil, righteousness over injustice, and truth over lies. The festival emphasises the importance of leading a virtuous life and that good deeds will always prevail, as demonstrated by Lord Rama and Goddess Durga’s victories.
(Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is based on religious texts and beliefs. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the religious and ritualistic claims provided may vary according to different sources.)
Learn about Dussehra 2024 – when it’s celebrated, the rituals performed, and the significance behind this important festival that marks the victory of good over evil. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
