10 Facts About Dussehra We Doubt You Knew - Learn In Advance

10 Facts About Dussehra We Doubt You Knew!

1. The Defeat Of The Sun

Dussehra comes from the Sanskrit word Dash Hara, which translates to ‘the defeat of the Sun’ in English. According to Hindu mythology, if Lord Rama had not defeated Ravana, the Sun would have never risen again.

2. Vijay Dashmi

In some parts of India, Dussehra is also called Vijay Dashmi, which means victory on the tenth day. It is celebrated as Vijay Dashmi to mark the victory of Goddess Durga over the Demon King Mahishasura.

3. Seasonal Changes

Dussehra also marks the end of the season as we finally bid adieu to summer, and it’s time for the winter season. It is a popular belief that there is a nip in the air after burning the effigy of Ravana. The festival also marks the harvesting of kharif crops and sowing of rabi crops. It’s an important occasion for farmers of all beliefs

4. Ramleela

Ramleela or ‘Rama’s play’ is a performance of the Ramayana epic in a series of scenes that include song, narration, recital and dialogue. It is performed across northern India during the festival of Dussehra, held each year according to the ritual calendar in autumn. On the final day of Dussehra, the scene of Lord Rama defeating Ravana takes place.

5. Buddhism

Buddhists celebrate this day as Ashok Vijayadashami, as it is believed that Mauryan King Ashoka was converted to buddhism on this day. It’s also the day that Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar converted to Buddhism in 1956.

6. Beyond India

Dussehra is not only celebrated in India but also Bangladesh, Nepal and Malaysia. It is a national holiday in Malaysia. Dashain, also known as Bijaya Dashami, is the grandest, longest and most auspicious festival in Nepal.

7. The First Celebration

It is believed that the first grand celebration of Dussehra took place in the Mysore Palace, Karnataka in the 17th century at the orders of then King, Wodeyar. Ever since then, Dussehra has been celebrated with grandeur across the country.

8. Mahabharat

Dussehra also marks the homecoming of Pandavas from their exile of 13 years. When the Pandavas had lost their kingdom, they were in exile for 12 years. It was said that if they were discovered in the 13th year, they would have to start their exile all over again.

9. The Gift Of Gold

There are many such rituals associated with Dussehra, followed in various parts of the country. One such practice followed in Maharashtra is the gifting of “gold” during Dussehra.

9. The Gift Of Gold

There are many such rituals associated with Dussehra, followed in various parts of the country. One such practice followed in Maharashtra is the gifting of “gold” during Dussehra.

10. Eradication Of Vices

1. Kama stands for lust 2. Krodha for anger 3. Moha for attachment 4. Lobh for greed 5. Mada for pride 6. Swarth for selfishness 7. Matsara for jealousy 8. Ahankara for ego 9. Amanavta for lack of humanity 10. Anyaya for injustice