Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of India’s most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals. Observed on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, this day marks the culmination of the nine-day Navratri festival. While the central theme is the triumph of good over evil, the stories and styles of celebration vary dramatically across the country, showcasing India’s incredible cultural diversity.
Famous Places to Witness Dussehra
To truly experience the grandeur of Dussehra, here are some of the most famous places to visit:
- Mysore, Karnataka: Known as “Mysuru Dasara,” this celebration is a royal spectacle with a history spanning over 400 years. The city comes alive with the Mysore Palace illuminated by nearly 100,000 light bulbs. The grand finale is the “Jamboo Savari,” a magnificent procession featuring a decorated elephant carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari.
- Kullu, Himachal Pradesh: Kullu Dussehra stands apart as it begins on the day when other parts of the country conclude their celebrations. It’s a week-long international festival where deities from over 200 villages are brought in a vibrant procession to the Dhalpur Maidan. The celebration is dedicated to Lord Raghunath (Lord Rama) and is a unique blend of religious fervor and folk traditions.
- Delhi: The capital city celebrates Dussehra with an unforgettable spectacle. The famous Ramlila performances, a theatrical re-enactment of the Ramayana, take place in various parts of the city, most notably at the Ramlila Maidan. On the final day, gigantic effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakaran, and his son Meghnad are set ablaze amidst a dazzling display of fireworks, symbolizing the destruction of evil.
- Bastar, Chhattisgarh: The Bastar Dussehra is a truly unique celebration that has no connection to the Ramayana. This tribal festival, dedicated to Goddess Danteshwari, spans an astonishing 75 days. It is a festival of nature and tribal culture, featuring elaborate chariot processions and traditional rituals that showcase the region’s indigenous heritage.
Different Styles of Celebrations
While the core message remains the same, the method of celebration reflects the diverse narratives and local traditions of each region:
- North India (Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab): Here, the festival is a theatrical and fiery affair. The main focus is on the story of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana. The burning of large effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakaran, and Meghnad, known as “Ravan Dahan,” is the highlight. The nine days leading up to it are filled with “Ramlila” performances, bringing the epic to life for thousands.
- East India (West Bengal): In West Bengal, Dussehra is known as “Bijoya Dashami” and marks the conclusion of the grand Durga Puja. The festival is a celebration of Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. The tenth day is a time of emotional farewell as meticulously crafted idols of the goddess are immersed in rivers and other water bodies.
- South India (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh): The celebrations in the south are more focused on the worship of goddesses. In Tamil Nadu, the festival is marked by “Golu,” an elaborate display of dolls and figurines arranged on decorated steps, representing various gods, goddesses, and scenes from Hindu mythology. The day is also seen as a time to pay reverence to tools, books, and musical instruments, a practice known as “Ayudha Puja.”
Effects on the Environment
Dussehra, while a joyous festival, has a notable environmental footprint, primarily due to the burning of effigies and idol immersion.
- Air Pollution: The burning of Ravana effigies, which are often stuffed with firecrackers and made from non-biodegradable materials, releases a significant amount of toxic gases and particulate matter into the atmosphere. This can lead to a sharp increase in the Air Quality Index (AQI), posing health risks to people, especially those with respiratory issues.
- Water Pollution: In regions where Durga Puja idols are immersed in water bodies, the use of Plaster of Paris and chemical paints containing heavy metals like lead and mercury can pollute rivers and lakes. This contamination can harm aquatic life and contaminate water sources used for drinking and irrigation.
- Noise Pollution: The use of loud firecrackers and amplified music during processions contributes to high levels of noise pollution, which can be detrimental to human and animal health.
Recognizing these issues, many communities and governments are promoting eco-friendly celebrations. This includes using organic colors for idols, creating effigies with natural materials, and advocating for noiseless firecrackers to ensure the festival remains a celebration of good in every sense.
Conclusion
Dussehra is more than just a festival; it is a powerful symbol of hope, righteousness, and the eternal victory of good over evil. From the grand royal processions of Mysore to the vibrant folk dances of Kullu and the fiery spectacles of Delhi, the festival is a testament to India’s rich and diverse cultural fabric. By embracing more eco-friendly practices, we can ensure that this timeless tradition continues to inspire future generations while protecting the planet we call home.
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