BHUBANESWAR: Tenth day of the Hindu lunar month of Ashwin is celebrated as Vijaya Dashami or Dussehra. It marks the end of Maha Navratri or nine days which marks the descent of the nine incarnations of Goddess Durga. The day marks the celebration of goddess Durga’s triumph over demons Shumbh and Nishumbh. It is a symbolical celebration of righteousness over evil.
Hindus celebrate this festival worldwide by observing social gatherings and offering sweets and gifts to relatives, friends and neighbours. The festivity also marks the beginning of the harvest season. Prayers are said and rituals observed to invoke the blessings of Mother Earth for a good harvest, peace and prosperity. Orissa Post interacted with some devotees to delve deeper into the subject.
For Odissi dancer Prativa panda, Vijayadashmi is the day when Maa Durga finally rests after her victory in the fierce battle against demons. She said, “During Vijaydashmi, I call upon all my dance students to my dance school and treat them with a feast. It’s a day of bonding and love”.
Indrani Dasgupta, a homemaker and resident of Kalpana Square area, said, “On this day, I watch Ravana Podi at Sahid nagar Durga puja mandap along with my family. Prior to that, I visit Kalibadi at Ashok nagar to apply sindoor (red vermillion) with other married ladies. I also perform Dhunu dance in front of Maa Durga while the Dhaka is played on. Then finally it’s time to do the Boron of Maa Durga as I put sindoor on her head”
Sonu Dhawan an entrepreneur and resident of Vanivihar area said,” Dashmi has only one meaning the win of good over evil.One can witness the fun,food and glitz all around.Nobody is working and everybody is enjoying their holidays. I also visit my loved ones during this day and feast with my family”.
Singer Sohini Mishra said, “Vijayadashmi is the day to worship of Maa Sarswati who is also known as Vak Devi or goddess of words.”