The culminating day of the nine day long festivity is marked with the celebration of Vijaya Dashami – the tenth day on which Goddess Maa (mother) Durga had her victory over the devil/demon. Celebrations take different forms in different parts of the country, ranging from worshiping the goddess Durga, to exhibiting colorful toys on the day of Bombe Habba in Karnataka (a glimpse of which you will see in the following post). Vijaya Dashami also sees the immersion of Durga deities, which are worshiped for nine days prior to Dussera.
Whatever the form of celebration across the country, the one essence which binds it is the victory of good over evil, not the all-evident victory over an external evil, but the evil that lies within oneself.
Like the 10 heads of Ravana – the demon king from Ramayana, which depict the 10 evil in humans which control our destiny.
Kama vasana (Lust)
Krodha (Anger)
Moha (Delusion)
Lobha (Greed)
Mada (Over Pride)
Matsara (Jealousy)
Manas (Mind)
Buddhi (Intellect)
Chitta (Will)
Ahankara (Ego).
May Maa Durga give you all the strength to overcome these hidden demons inside of you, and bless you with a peaceful & happy life!
Wish you all a very Happy Dussera!
