Today is Vijaya Dashami ॥
Durga Devi Temple, also known as Durga Kund Mandir, is one of the well-known temples dedicated to Goddess Durga in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is an important centre of Shakti worship, and devotees visit in large numbers during Navaratri to seek the blessings of the Divine Mother.
Vijaya Dashami, also known as Dussehra or Dasara, is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu month of Ashwin, marking the conclusion of Navaratri. The festival symbolises the victory of good over evil and the triumph of righteousness over injustice.
The day is associated with two important legends. According to the Ramayana tradition, Lord Shri Rama defeated Ravana and rescued Goddess Sita. In the Shakti tradition, Goddess Durga defeated the buffalo demon Mahishasura after a fierce battle, restoring Dharma and peace to the world.
The word Vijaya Dashami combines “Vijaya,” meaning victory, and “Dashami,” meaning the tenth day. The festival is celebrated in different ways across India, reflecting the country’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions.
According to traditional Hindu beliefs, a particular auspicious period on Vijayadashami is known as Vijaya Kaal. It is considered favourable for beginning new ventures, undertaking important tasks, and praying for success.
The festival reminds devotees that courage, righteousness, faith, and perseverance ultimately lead to victory.
Worship of the Shami tree is an important Vijayadashami tradition in several parts of India.
According to the Mahabharata, during their period of exile, the Pandavas concealed their weapons in a Shami tree before entering the kingdom of King Virata in disguise. At the end of their incognito period, Arjuna retrieved his weapons from the tree.
The Shami tree is therefore revered as a symbol of protection, courage and victory. In some regions, people exchange Shami leaves with friends and relatives as a symbolic offering of gold, wishing one another prosperity and good fortune.
Simollanghan, meaning the crossing of boundaries, is a traditional Vijayadashami observance, particularly in Maharashtra. It symbolises the spirit of moving forward, overcoming limitations, and achieving victory.
Shastra Puja, or the worship of weapons and tools, is also observed by many communities. People clean and worship the instruments they use in their professions, expressing gratitude for their livelihood and praying for success and protection.
These practices vary across regions and communities, but they share a common message of courage, duty, and the victory of good over evil.
As devotees worship Goddess Durga at the Durga Devi Temple in Varanasi and other sacred places, Vijayadashami offers an opportunity to reflect on the power of faith and righteousness.
May Goddess Durga bless everyone with strength, wisdom, peace and prosperity. May we overcome our inner weaknesses and follow the path of Dharma.
