Every year during September or October (depending on the Hindu lunar calendar), India is transformed into a scene of pure magic with the celebration of Dussehra. This is one of those times of the year when excitement is in the air, fireworks light up the sky and epic legends come to life. If you've ever wondered what it's like to feel the spiritual heartbeat of India, I recommend you experience this festival firsthand.
What is Dussehra?
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, marks the end of the nine-day Navratri,, a period of time when the goddess Durga is worshipped in her various forms. But what really makes the heart of this festival vibrate is the epic story behind it: the triumph of the god Rama over the demon Ravana. And it is not just any victory. This is the moment when good, justice and righteousness prevail over evil, represented by Ravana, the ten-headed demon.
As a passionate fan of Indian culture, I am always impressed by the way this story transcends the religious. It doesn't matter if you are devout or not, the lesson is universal: each one of us can fight and win our own battles, as did Rama.
The story of Rama and Ravana
It all begins with the banishment of 14-year-old Rama to the forest, along with his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana,, due to the intrigue of one of the wives of King Dasharatha, her father. During her exile, Sita is kidnapped by Ravana, the king of Lanka, who is captivated by her beauty and virtues. Ravana, known for his ten heads, is a symbol of arrogance, greed and evil. After the kidnapping, Sita is taken to Lanka, where Ravana tries in vain to win her love, while she remains faithful to Rama.
What follows is one of the greatest stories of bravery and sacrifice. Rama, with the help of Lakshmana and an army of monkeys led by Hanuman, Rama's most faithful devotee, sets out on an epic journey to rescue Sita. During the long journey, Rama faces numerous trials, but it is his faith, his sense of justice and his unwavering love for Sita that guide him.
Finally, the great battle arrives. In an epic confrontation that lasts several days, Rama faces Ravana, who is known for his great power, intelligence and strength. Although Ravana possessed great gifts, such as immortality in the face of many attacks, Rama represents the ideal of virtue and righteousness. With the help of his army and his skill as an archer, Rama finally kills Ravana with an arrow that pierces his heart, ending the reign of terror he had built.
The symbolism of the story is profound: Ravana, with its ten heads, represents the ten passions or defects that humans must overcome in order to attain righteousness, such as ego, greed, lust and anger. Rama, on the other hand, embodies truth, duty and sacrifice. His victory over Ravana is an allegory of the victory of good over evil, a reminder that justice, though it may be challenged, prevails in the end.
Fasting in Dussehra and its Meaning
During the days leading up to Dussehra, specially during Navratri, many people practice fasting as an act of devotion. But this is not just a physical fast; it has a deep spiritual meaning. The act of fasting symbolizes the purification of the body and mind, a conscious effort to eliminate both physical and mental toxins. It is a way to connect more deeply with the divine and prepare for the spiritual change that comes with the triumph of good over evil.
I have spoken to many people in India who have told me about how fasting gives them a sense of clarity, as if they are aligning their inner self with the vibration of the festival. Fasting is often seen as an opportunity for introspection, to reflect on our own challenges and how we can overcome them, just as Rama overcame Ravana.
What can be eaten during fasting?
Navratri fasting is flexible and varies according to region and personal beliefs. However, in general, people follow a diet of satvikThe fasting diet is a pure diet that excludes foods such as meat, garlic and onions. During fasting, food is kept simple and nutritious, focusing on foods that are easy to digest and energizing.
Among the foods allowed during fasting are:
- Fresh fruit: Many people prefer to stick to fresh fruits such as bananas, apples and pomegranates, which provide energy without being heavy.
- Sabudana Khichdi: One of the most popular dishes is the sabudana khichdi, a mixture of tapioca pearls cooked with peanuts, potatoes and light spices. This dish is not only tasty, but also very nutritious and easy to digest.
- Kuttu ki puri: This is a kind of fried flatbread made of buckwheat flour, which is usually served with aloo sabzi (a spicy potato curry).
- Lassi or yogurt: Dairy drinks such as lassi, or simply yogurt, are popular because they help keep the body cool and are an excellent source of protein during fasting.
- Makhanas (lotus seeds): Lotus seeds, fried and seasoned, are a healthy snack that many enjoy during fasting.
Although the fasting diet is simple, it is no less delicious. I love how satvik food, with its mild flavor and light character, leaves you feeling lighter and in harmony with the celebrations to come.
How to experience the festival Dussehra?
I have had the good fortune to live Dussehra in different parts of India, and I assure you that the way it is celebrated varies as much as the colors of a sari. However, there is one thing that is common everywhere: energy is absolutely contagious.
- The burning of effigies of Ravana: If you like shows full of emotion, you can't miss the burning of huge effigies of Ravana, loaded with fireworks. Imagine being in the middle of the crowd, watching these giant figures explode in flames, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. It is a sensation that makes you feel part of something much bigger.
- Las Ramlilas: If you enjoy theater, this is your moment. Ramlilas, theatrical representations of the story of Rama, are staged all over India. From small villages to big cities, you will see local actors reenacting the final battle with a passion that gives you goosebumps. If you're in Delhi or Varanasi, this show is something you simply can't miss.
- Royal parades: One of the most unforgettable experiences is in Mysore, where the Dussehra is celebrated with a parade worthy of royalty. Richly adorned elephants, marching bands, floats telling stories of the gods... The whole atmosphere is as if you are transported to a bygone era. It's one of those moments when you think, "I'm in a fairy tale in India!"
Dussehra in Hindu households
Dussehra is not only experienced on the streets, it is also strongly felt in Hindu homes. During this festival, families decorate their homes with vibrant colors and auspicious symbols, such as the rangoli, beautiful figures made with colored powder or flowers, which adorn the entrances to attract good energies.
The tenth day, Vijayadashami, is a special time for families to gather for prayers and offerings to the gods. In many homes, a ritual is performed known as the Ayudha Puja. In this ceremony, the objects of work are blessed: books, tools and anything that represents the vocation of the family. It is an act of gratitude, a recognition that, without divine help, there would be no success in any of our labors.
The younger ones also participate enthusiastically. Girls usually dress up as the goddess Durga and are worshipped by the older members of the family in a ritual known as Kanya Puja, where divinity is recognized in every girl. Children, on the other hand, enjoy the fireworks and the excitement of street celebrations.
Where to celebrate Dussehra in India?
India is so vast and diverse that each place has its own special touch for Dussehra. Here are my favorites, based on my travel experiences:
- Kullu, Himachal Pradesh: This small town in the hills comes to life during the Dussehra. The festival here lasts seven days, and what makes it unique is its deeply spiritual tone. Processions with idols of gods from nearby villages gather in the valley, and it feels as if the gods themselves are walking among the devotees.
- Mysore, Karnataka: if you have ever dreamed of being part of a royal celebration, Mysore is the place. The Mysore palace, illuminated with thousands of lights, is something that cannot be described in words. You have to see it with your own eyes. The parade of Dussehrawith live music is a great experience.
- Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Can you imagine seeing the Ramlilas on the banks of the Ganges? The effigies of Ravana are burned against the backdrop of the sacred river, and the whole atmosphere is pure devotion. It is impossible not to feel connected with the spiritual energy of the city during this festival.
Accompanying flavors Dussehra
Dussehra is not only a festival for the eyes and soul, but also for the palate! Food plays a crucial role, and each region brings its own special touch.
- Satvik food: During Navratri and Dussehra, many people follow a satvik diet, which is pure vegetarian, with no onions or garlic. This gives a special flavor to dishes such as the khichdi, a comforting rice with lentils, accompanied with puris and sabzi of pumpkin. I assure you that this food has a simple taste but full of meaning.
- Paanaka and Kosambari: In Karnataka, the hot weather calls for something refreshing, such as the paanaka, a drink made with lemon juice and sugar. In addition, you can't miss the kosambari, a light lentil salad, perfect for balancing energy during long celebrations.
- Traditional sweets: No Indian festival is complete without its sweets, and Dussehra is no exception. My favorites include the barfi, made of condensed milk and sugar, and the crunchy, sweetened jalebis, the golden spiral-shaped, which look like small golden spirals filled with syrup. Also noteworthy are the laddus, these are balls of chickpea flour and sugar, which are a classic in celebrations. These sweets not only sweeten the occasion, but they also represent the joy and success that brings Dussehra.
In households, in addition to sweets, families usually prepare puri (fried bread), accompanied by sabzi pumpkin or potatoes. These dishes taste homemade and full of love, perfect for sharing after family prayers and celebrations.
Dussehra: More than a Celebration
Dussehra always leaves a deep impression on me. Every time I celebrate it, I am reminded that the struggle for good, whether in mythical stories or in our own lives, never ends. It is a reminder that we all face our own versions of Ravana, but with perseverance, we can overcome them.
At the end of the day, Dussehra is not just a festival of flaming effigies or grandiose spectacles; it is also a time of togetherness, reflection and gratitude in Indian homes. Seeing how families come together, decorate their homes and share blessings makes me appreciate even more the spiritual richness that India brings to the world.
If you ever find yourself in India during this festival, don't just be an observer. Immerse yourself in the celebrations, experience the history, enjoy the flavors, and let the spirit of Dussehra inspires you. This is the kind of festival that transforms you, not just by what you see, but by what you feel.
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