Published on October 23, 2023, 07:44 AM IST
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, Dasara, or Dashain, is a significant Hindu festival that symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. In this article, we will delve into the date of Dussehra 2023, explore its rich history, understand the auspicious muhurat for puja, and uncover its cultural and spiritual significance.
Dussehra 2023 Date and Timing
Date: Dussehra or Vijayadashami falls on October 24, 2023. This day holds immense importance in the Hindu calendar as it marks the victory of righteousness over malevolence.
Muhurat: According to Drik Panchang, the Vijaya Muhurat for Dussehra begins at 1:58 pm and ends at 2:43 pm. The afternoon Puja time is from 1:13 pm to 3:28 pm. The Dashami Tithi commences on October 23 at 5:44 pm and concludes on October 24 at 3:14 pm, while the Shravana Nakshatra is observed from October 22 at 6:44 pm until October 23 at 5:14 pm.
Dussehra: A Glimpse into Its History
Dussehra falls on the Shukla Paksha Dashmi during the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu lunar calendar. It occurs a day after Maha Navami and signifies the end of Shardiya Navratri. Vijayadashami commemorates the age-old saga of the victory of good over evil.
Legend 1: In Hindu mythology, Lord Rama vanquished the demon king of Lanka, Ravana, on this very day. This significant triumph is celebrated during Dussehra.
Legend 2: Another legend narrates the fierce battle between Maa Durga and the formidable demon, Mahishasura. The fierce conflict lasted for nine days, culminating in Dussehra with the defeat of Mahishasura.
Dussehra’s Spiritual Significance
Dussehra marks the initiation of Diwali celebrations, occurring twenty days before the Festival of Lights. It symbolizes Lord Rama’s homecoming, along with Maa Sita and Lord Lakshman, after defeating Ravana. The festival encapsulates the triumph of light over darkness and the victory of good over evil.
Tradition: Worshipping the Shami tree on Vijayadashami holds great significance in various parts of the country. Legend has it that Arjuna concealed his weapons inside the Shami tree during his exile, making it a symbol of resilience and strength.
Dussehra Celebrations
Dussehra is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm across India. Various regions have their unique customs and rituals.
- In North Indian states and Karnataka, it is commonly referred to as Dussehra.
- In West Bengal, it is known as Vijayadashami, celebrated with the grand immersion of Maa Durga idols.
- The Ram Lila performances are held nationwide, reenacting the epic battle of Lord Rama.
- Enormous fairs draw crowds, and effigies of Ravana are set ablaze, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.
Dussehra 2023: When is Vijayadashami? Know date, history, muhurat, significance – a festival that resonates with the spirit of righteousness and the celebration of light overpowering darkness.
Unlocking the Mysteries of Dussehra: Dates, Muhurat, and Traditions
What is the Significance of Dussehra and Vijayadashami?
Dussehra, also known as Dasara or Vijayadashami, is a Hindu holiday that commemorates the victory of Lord Rama, an avatar of Vishnu, over the formidable 10-headed demon king, Ravana. This historic event is deeply ingrained in Hindu mythology, symbolizing the triumph of virtue over malevolence. Ravana’s abduction of Rama’s wife, Sita, sets the stage for this epic battle, ultimately resulting in Rama’s victorious return.
What is the Significance of Vijayadashami?
Vijayadashami is a festival that holds great significance as it symbolizes the victory of Good over Evil. In the epic Mahabharata, this auspicious day is renowned as the moment when the Pandava warrior, Arjuna, achieved victory over the Kauravas, reinforcing the eternal theme of triumph of righteousness and justice.
What is the Significance of Dussehra’s 10 Days?
The 10-day celebration of Dussehra holds profound significance in Hindu tradition. According to the revered Hindu epic, the Ramayana, it was on the tenth day, Dussehra, that Lord Ram achieved the monumental victory over the demon king Ravana. This day symbolizes the ultimate triumph of virtue over sin and immorality. Ravana’s actions, which included the abduction of Ram’s wife, Sita, and his reputation as a despotic ruler, make Dussehra a powerful reminder of the victory of righteousness over wickedness.
What is the time of Dashami Puja in 2023?
If you’re planning to observe Dashami Puja in 2023, here are the crucial timings you need to be aware of:
- Dashami Tithi Begins: October 23, 2023 (Monday) at 05:44 PM.
- Dashami Tithi Ends: October 24, 2023 (Tuesday).
- Vijay Muhurata: October 24, 2023 (Tuesday) at 02:18 PM.
- Aparahna Puja Time: October 24, 2023 (Tuesday) at 01:32 PM.
These timings are vital for devotees planning to participate in the auspicious Dashami Puja ceremony in 2023. Mark your calendar to ensure you don’t miss these significant moments.
What is the Moral of Vijayadashami?
Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra in certain Indian regions, carries a universal message that transcends regional distinctions. The core essence of this festival is the unequivocal triumph of good over evil. In simpler terms, Vijayadashami symbolizes the victory of the forces of righteousness over those of malevolence. This moral underpinning serves as a timeless and unifying theme for this celebrated occasion.
What is the Auspicious Time for Vijayadashami?
The festival of Vijayadashami features a special moment known as the "Vijay Muhurat," which is considered highly auspicious. In 2023, this auspicious time falls between 01:58 PM and 02:43 PM as per the Hindu Panchang (Calendar). Vijayadashami, at its core, is a joyous celebration of the victory of good over evil, an occasion that unites people from diverse backgrounds in this collective spirit of triumph.
