Vijayadashmi, Dussehra, Sindoor Khela: Different names, one festival

The nation on Tuesday celebrated the tenth day of Kartik month on Hindu calendar in various ways and forms. While the North India celebrates it as Dussehra by burning effigies of Ravana, South India calls this day Vijayadashmi and celebrates the victory of Goddess Durga after a 9day battle with Mahishasur. At the same time East India celebrates it in a colourful way by playing Sindoor Khela. Here are different ways of celebrating Vijayadashmi in India: 

Dussehra: It is celebrated in different ways in India and Nepal. On this day, Lord Rama defeated king Ravana, who had abducted Rama’s wife. It was Ashvina Shukla Dasami. Lord Rama, with his brother Lakshman, disciple lord Hanuman and an army defested Ravana and rescued Sita. After 20 days, Lord Ram returned to Ayodhya and the native people celebrated his coming by lighting earthen lamps.

Vijayadashm: In Northern india, Dussehra is celebrated by burning the figures of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkarana and son Meghnad. Fairs are organised in many parts of India that showcase Ramleela. The fairs include vibrant colours, enthusiasm.

Kullu Dusshera: It begins on the tenth day of the rising moon and continues for seven days. In 17th century, King Jagat Singh installed an idol of Raghunath on his throne in penance. After this Raghunath was declared as the king of the valley.

Ayudha Pooja: In South India, with the worship of Goddess Durga, display of colourful figurines, known as golu, is also prevalent. Vijay Dasami is considered good for starting education so people in South India perform Ayudha pooja in which the students keep their books in pooja. Karnataka celebrates Mysore Dasara.

Sindoor Khela: On the last day of Durga puja, Bengali women apply vermilion on the goddess’s feet or forehead and then apply it to all the married women around. Unmarried women or widows are not allowed to play Sindoor khela. The festival is celebrated to feel proud of husband. It marks the coming of Goddess Durga to in laws’ house. It’s a kind of royal welcome to the Goddess.