“Burai par achhai ki jeet.”
This is one of the most heard and believed sayings in Indian culture. Whenever we face any injustice, or someone wrongs us, we hold on to hope. It is the belief that truth and goodness will eventually come out victorious. This timeless belief reminds us that no matter how powerful negativity may appear, righteousness always finds its way to victory.
The deeper meaning behind this saying comes from the life of Maryada Purushottam Lord Ram. His journey represents truth, discipline, compassion, and the victory of dharma over adharma. Every year, Dussehra is celebrated as a reminder of Lord Ram’s triumph over the demon king Ravana.
This chapter of Indian mythology and culture holds its position as one of the greatest battles. It was not only fought outside but also within ourselves.
The History and Story Behind Dussehra
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated across India. The word “Vijayadashami” comes from two words: “Vijaya”, meaning “victory”, and “Dashami”, meaning “the tenth day”. The festival marks the victory of good over evil and is celebrated on the tenth day of the bright half of the Hindu month of Ashwin. It is celebrated on the 10th day after the 9-day-long Navratri celebration.
According to the Ramayana, Lord Ram was the eldest son of King Dasharatha and Queen Kaushalya of Ayodhya. Known for his noble character, honesty, and commitment to dharma, Lord Ram worships as the ideal king and human being.
During his fourteen years of exile, Ravana, the powerful king of Lanka, abducted Lord Ram’s wife, Goddess Sita. People knew Ravana for his knowledge and strength, but pride and arrogance overcame him.
To rescue Sita Mata and restore righteousness, Lord Ram, along with his brother Lakshman and devoted follower Hanuman, built an army and reached Lanka. After a fierce battle between Ram and Ravana, Lord Ram defeated Ravana on the tenth day, symbolising the victory of truth, humility, and righteousness over ego and evil.
Dussehra 2026 Date and Time
Tithi: 10th day of Shukla Paksha tithi in the month of Ashwin.
Dussehra 2026 Date: 20 October 2026 (Tuesday)
Celebrated after: Nine days of Navratri
Significance: Victory of Lord Ram over Ravana and the triumph of good over evil
The day is considered highly auspicious for beginning new ventures, seeking blessings, and performing prayers.
Dussehra: A Reminder to Burn the Evil Within
While Dussehra celebrates Lord Ram’s victory over Ravana, its message goes beyond a historical event. The festival encourages us to look within ourselves and remove the negative qualities that hold us back. The ten heads of Ravana are often seen as symbols of human weaknesses. They can be your ego, anger, greed, jealousy, attachment, and pride. Burning Ravana’s statue during Dussehra is seen as the day of destroying our inner evils. And choosing the path of kindness, truth, patience, and humility. The true victory of Dussehra happens when we overcome our own weaknesses. And move towards becoming better individuals.
Dussehra Celebration Across India
Dussehra celebrations vary in different ways across various regions of India, with each place adding its own unique cultural traditions.
Ram Leela and Ravana Dahan in North India
In the states of Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Haryana, people organise large Ram Leela performances for several days. These dramatic presentations depict the life story of Lord Ram and end with the burning of huge effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakarna on Vijayadashami. The sight of illuminated effigies burning against the night sky represents the victory of good over evil.
Mysore Dasara in Karnataka
In Mysore, they celebrate Dussehra as the grand Mysore Dasara, a royal festival with a history of several centuries. People beautifully decorate the city with lights, cultural performances, processions, and traditional ceremonies. The famous Jamboo Savari procession featuring a beautifully decorated elephant is one of the major attractions.
Durga Puja and Vijayadashami in West Bengal
In West Bengal, Vijayadashami marks the conclusion of the grand Durga Puja celebrations. Devotees bid farewell to Goddess Durga through Sindoor Khela, prayers, and idol immersion ceremonies, celebrating the Goddess’s return to her divine abode.
Kullu Dussehra in Himachal Pradesh
Kullu Dussehra is a unique celebration where the festival begins on Vijayadashami and continues for several days. A grand procession brings together local deities. It creates a beautiful display of devotion and tradition.
Conclusion
Dussehra is not just a festival that celebrates the victory of Lord Ram over Ravana. It is a reminder that every person has the power to choose truth over falsehood, humility over ego, and kindness over negativity. The story of Lord Ram continues to inspire millions because it teaches that even in difficult times, staying on the path of righteousness leads to victory. As Ravana’s effigy burns every year, may we also let go of the negativity within ourselves and embrace the values of compassion, courage, and dharma.