Vijayadashami 2023: Celebrating the Triumph of Good over Evil on October 24

• Day of Celebration: This year, Vijayadashami falls on October 24, and according to Drik Panchang.
• Theme: Though Dashami and Dussehra entail distinct rituals, they share the common theme of celebrating the victory of good over evil.

Vijayadashami 2023: Signifying Triumph Over Evil in Indian Culture:

• Cultural Value: It signifies the conclusion of the nine-day extravaganza of Navratri and the four or five-day celebration of Durga Puja.
  • Righteousness vs Evil: This auspicious day is steeped in mythological significance, as it is believed to mark the triumphant moment when Lord Rama vanquished the demon King Ravana and his malevolent army after a protracted battle between the forces of righteousness and evil. 
    • This monumental victory has led to the day being christened as Vijay Dashami, the Day of Victory.
  • Conquest of Good over Evil: Vijayadashami also symbolises the day when the fierce Goddess Durga confronted and annihilated Mahishasura’s formidable army, ultimately slaying the buffalo demon.
    • This carries with it the profound message of the conquest of good over evil.

Vijayadashami 2023: Vibrant Traditions and Symbolic Rituals in Celebration

• Ramleela: On this day, the streets come alive with vibrant Ramleela performances, especially in the northern regions of the country. 
  • These enactments vividly depict the life and valour of the righteous Lord Rama through ballads and plays.
• Ravana Burning: Another captivating tradition associated with Vijayadashami is the ritualistic burning of effigies, symbolising the defeat of the antagonists. 
  • The effigies of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhakaran are set ablaze, underscoring the glorious triumph of good over evil.
• Idols Immersion: It marks the immersion of idols of Goddess Durga and her divine children — Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikeya, Goddess Saraswati, and Goddess Lakshmi. 
• People exchange warm wishes of a Happy Dussehra or Shubho Bijoya, reflecting on the year that has passed and eagerly anticipating what the future holds.

Conclusion:

• Vijayadashami, observed on October 24, represents the victory of good over evil in Indian culture. Its diverse celebrations, from vibrant performances to effigy burning and idol immersion, foster unity and resilience, epitomizing the enduring triumph of righteousness.