Holidays in India sometimes are not mere celebrations, but narrations, a lessons, and customs that have been handed down over the years. Dussehra is one of those holidays. The holiday will be celebrated in 2025, on Thursday, October 2. This date is also Gandhi Jayanti. Therefore, it is another reminder of two ideas that both Rama and Gandhi stood for in their own individual ways—truth, justice, and non-violence.
The Origin of Dussehra
Dussehra originates from the Ramayana, one of India’s greatest epics. In the story, Rama fought the demon king Ravana with the help of his brother Lakshmana, Hanuman, and a loyal group of followers. The fight between king and demon king was more than just a battle: It represented the triumph or victory of good over bad, right over wrong, and righteousness over pride and evil.
In some regions of India, Dussehra is related to the Mahabharata. It is thought that on this day, Arjuna took his weapons out of hiding and prepared for the war at Kurukshetra. Both of those stories communicate the same message: Faith, courage, and justice will lead to triumph of good over evil.
The Significance of Dussehra
Dussehra is not simply about the burning of effigies or magnificent fairs. Fundamentally, it is about reminding us that good triumphs over evil. It is also about considering our own inner “Ravana”—the aspects of our pride, anger, greed, and dishonesty. Just as Rama overcame Ravana, we must also learn to overcome our weaknesses.
It also tells us about bravery. Even when the situation seemed hopeless, Lord Rama did not lose hope. His patience, perseverance, and belief in truth inspires us—and empowers us to face life’s frustrations.
Celebrations Throughout India
The expression of Dussehra varies throughout the country, but the essence is evident in different contexts. In North India, towns and villages are brought to life with Ram Leela performances that act out the story of Rama.
The pyre burning of the giant effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhakarna is the most popular event, when people gather to watch the monstrous figures explode with fireworks as they are burned, celebrating the goodwill of good over evil.
In the Southern states, Dussehra marks Ayudha Puja, a time when people lovingly clean and respect their tools, vehicles, and all purpose-conducting instruments. This ensures that we do not forget we can achieve things because we respect the objects that help us perform our work every day.
In East India, on this day, which also marks the end of Durga Puja, rituals are associated with Goddess Durga’s defeat of the demon Mahishasura making it a day of honor and respect to the their warrior goddess.
The differences in celebrating Dussehra like many Indian festivals contribute to the richness of Indian culture and grey area of communities that use one festival to declare itself through different traditions while maintaining the same meaningful gesture.
Dussehra 2025: A Momentous Day
This year, Dussehra coincides with Gandhi Jayanti. Dussehra celebrates Rama’s triumph through bravery and a spirit of brotherhood, while Gandhi Jayanti signifies Mahatma Gandhi’s battle through truth and non-violence. Together, and in series, they provide compelling meaning to October 2, 2025, for the nation.
Families will assemble to witness Ravana Dahan, children will delight in fairs and rides, and communities will unite in prayer and celebration. Likewise, schools and cultural groups may also adopt the legacy of Gandhi, allowing for the day to have meaning on multiple levels.
Lessons for Today’s World.
Dussehra’s significance is more than just ceremonies. It encourages us to look inside ourselves to confront the struggles of our everyday lives, routines, and actions. Each of us has challenges, temptations, and conflicts where our values and priorities are tested. The story of Rama represents standing for the truth and for patience and thinking twice before taking the easy shortcut.
In addition, Dussehra is about togetherness. Rama’s achievements aren’t his alone; they were the result of his community and its teamwork, dependability, and purpose. As we live in a world that often focuses on division over unity, it is imperative that we see this message today.
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