Dussehra, Durga Puja, Vijayadashmi, Navratri – many names to a single festival. It is celebrated in a different way in every part of our country. It is celebrated to mark the victory of good over evil.
It is believed that Lord Rama had killed Ravana on this day. Hence, in the northern part of India; Ramlila (a skit on the life on Lord Rama) is performed and on the last day, effigies of Ravana and his two brothers Kumbhakarana and Meghanada are burnt. In South India, Godess Durga is worshipped and colourful figurines called Bommala Kolu are displayed. In the Eastern part of India, especially in West Bengal, it is believed that Goddess Durga defeated Mahishasura. Hence, her idols are worshipped and are immersed on the day of Vijayadashmi. In the western part of the country the festival is marked with immense fervor. The 9 forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped in the 9 days of Navratri.
Though it is celebrated in many different ways, it signifies only one thing- the victory of good over evil and there shouldn’t be a reason to not celebrate it. So, whether you are from east, west, north or south, we bring you 10 amazing things to do this Dussehra!
Worship the deity!
Let us not forget the reason for celebrating this festival. Bring home Maa Durga and express your gratitude.
Eat like a king
The Bengalis obviously have their sweet rosogullas and fish fries but the people who fast also need not worry, since we have lined up some special fasting recipes.
Dress your best!
Let’s not forget about the sales and offers put up by our favorite shops. This is indeed the best time to shop!! So, what’s stopping you to look your best!?
Put your Garba mode on
It is the best season to dance to Falguni Pathak’s songs. Get your Dandiya sticks now and start dancing!
Do Ramlila your way!
Doesn’t matter from whichever part of the country you belong to, just gather some of your friends and put up a fun Ramlila. Try to make it a modern one – imagine Sita updating sad statuses on her FB wall!
Be a lil eco-friendly
If your colony is burning a Ravana, request your community head or the organizer to use fewer fireworks while doing so, try to look for an alternative.
Ace the Dhunuchi dance
This is the dance performed after the evening aarti of Durga Puja. People hold coal and coconut shells filled clay pots and dance in a circle, barehanded and barefoot! Just looks easy but isn’t.
Decorate
Fill your house with some lovely flowers and beautiful rangolis. Try out different designs and techniques.
Au Revoir
Say goodbye to the Goddess and immerse her with all your gratitude.
Don’t be Sad
Don’t be sad the festive time has ended because the festival of lights awaits us! Brace up for Diwali!
