- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:29 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
30+ FAQs About Dussehra: Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami, is one of the most important Hindu festivals celebrated with joy and devotion across India. It marks the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, symbolising the eternal truth that good always triumphs over evil. The festival also signifies the end of Navratri, which is dedicated to Goddess Durga, and in many places, it commemorates her victory over the demon Mahishasura. In 2025, Dussehra will be celebrated on 2nd October 2025.
Celebrated in different forms across India, Dussehra brings people together through Ramlila plays, grand processions, and the burning of Ravana’s effigies. In West Bengal and eastern regions, it coincides with Durga Visarjan, while in northern India, it is marked by large-scale enactments of the Ramayana. Each region has its own unique way of celebrating, but the underlying message of righteousness, courage, and truth remains the same.
In this article, we answer 30+ frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Dussehra, covering its history, rituals, significance, and cultural variations that make it such a vibrant and meaningful festival.
History and Origins of Dussehra
1. Why do we celebrate Dussehra?
Answer: To mark Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, and also Maa Durga killed Mahishasur.
2. What does the word Vijayadashami mean?
Answer: Victory on the tenth day.
3. When was Dussehra first celebrated?
Answer: Believed to date back to ancient Vedic times.
4. Which epic is associated with Dussehra?
Answer: The Ramayana.
5. Is Dussehra only linked to Lord Rama?
Answer: No, in some regions it marks Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura.
6. Why is Ravana burned on Dussehra?
Answer: To symbolise the destruction of evil.
Significance and Symbolism
7. What does Dussehra teach us?
Answer: Good always wins over evil.
8. Why is it called a festival of victory?
Answer: It celebrates the triumph of righteousness.
9. Why does it fall after Navratri?
Answer: It marks the end of nine nights of devotion.
10. Is Dussehra linked to agriculture?
Answer: Yes, it marks harvest season in many areas.
11. Why is it considered an auspicious day?
Answer: It’s believed to bring success and positivity.
12. Is Dussehra celebrated outside India?
Answer: Yes, in countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius.
Rituals and Celebrations
13. How is Dussehra celebrated in North India?
Answer: With Ramlila and Ravana effigy burning.
14. What is Ramlila?
Answer: A stage play depicting the Ramayana.
15. What happens during Ravana Dahan?
Answer: Effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhkaran are burned.
16. How is Dussehra celebrated in West Bengal?
Answer: As Durga Puja Visarjan.
17. What food is prepared on Dussehra?
Answer: Festive sweets like jalebi, kheer, and puri.
18. Is it customary to exchange gifts on Dussehra?
Answer: Yes, many people give sweets and blessings.
19. What is Shami Puja?
Answer: Worship of the Shami tree, symbolising protection.
20. How is Dussehra marked in South India?
Answer: With Ayudha Puja and Saraswati Puja.
Regional Variations
21. How is Dussehra celebrated in Mysuru?
Answer: With the grand Mysuru Dasara procession.
22. What makes Kullu Dussehra famous?
Answer: A week-long fair in Himachal Pradesh.
23. How do Maharashtra and Gujarat celebrate?
Answer: With Shami tree worship and cultural dances.
24. How is it observed in Nepal?
Answer: As Dashain, the biggest festival of the year.
25. Do people in Tamil Nadu celebrate differently?
Answer: Yes, through Golu (doll displays) and Ayudha Puja.
26. Which region celebrates Ravan as a deity during Dussehra?
Answer: Some villages in Madhya Pradesh and Himachal.
Modern-Day Observance & Fun Facts About Dussehra
27. When is Dussehra 2025?
Answer: October 2, 2025.
28. Why does Dussehra date change every year?
Answer: It follows the Hindu lunar calendar.
29. Is Dussehra a public holiday in India?
Answer: Yes, in most states.
30. How many days after Navratri is Dussehra?
Answer: The very next day (10th day).
31. Do people buy gold on Dussehra?
Answer: Yes, it’s considered very lucky.
32. Why is Dussehra important for students?
Answer: It’s linked with Saraswati Puja, honouring knowledge.