Dussehra in Rajsthan

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a major Hindu festival celebrated across India and some other parts of South Asia. It marks the triumph of good over evil and is derived from the Sanskrit words "Dasha" and "Hara," meaning removing the ten (referring to the ten heads of the demon king Ravana). The festival typically falls in September or October, on the tenth day of the Hindu lunar calendar month of Ashvin. I took these photos in October 2023 in Devgarh, Rajasthan.

The most famous legend associated with Dussehra is the epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama, an incarnation of the God Vishnu, defeats the demon king Ravana, who had abducted Rama's wife, Sita. The battle between Rama and Ravana lasts for ten days, culminating in Rama's victory on the tenth day, which is celebrated as Dussehra.

In different regions of India, Dussehra is celebrated with various customs and traditions. It is often marked by elaborate processions, reenactments of the Ramayana, burning effigies of Ravana, and worship of the goddess Durga, who is also revered during this time.

Dussehra is not only a religious festival, but also a cultural celebration that brings communities together to celebrate the victory of righteousness and the onset of prosperity.