why do we celebrate dussehra

Dussehra is celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil. The most popular story behind Dussehra comes from the Indian epic Ramayana, where Lord Rama, with the help of his brother Lakshmana, Hanuman, and an army of monkeys, defeated the demon king Ravana who had kidnapped Rama’s wife, Sita. This victory symbolizes the triumph of righteousness over evil. Dussehra also signifies the end of the nine-day Navratri festival, which celebrates Goddess Durga’s victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The festival teaches values like honesty, courage, morality, and the importance of following the path of dharma (righteousness) while encouraging people to overcome obstacles in their lives. Dussehra is celebrated differently across India. In many places, effigies of Ravana are burnt to symbolize the destruction of evil, while in others, especially in eastern India, it marks the end of Durga Puja celebrations. It is a time of cultural unity, spiritual cleansing, and renewal of hope and positive energy, inspiring people to remain positive and courageous in their lives.