Dussehra / Dasara or Vijayadashmi is celebrated in diverse manners across the nation. Variations reflect the diverse mythologies, cultural expressions, and regional customs that shape this iconic festival.

Ram Leela Dussehra (North India)

• Celebrated predominantly in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, and parts of Rajasthan.
• Features open-air theatre performances (Ram Leela) that reenact Lord Rama’s life.
  

Durga Vijayadashami (East India)

• In West Bengal, Assam, and Odisha, Dussehra marks the end of Durga Puja.
• Celebrations conclude with Durga Visarjan, where idols are immersed in rivers or lakes.
• Known for grandeur, artistry, and cultural fervor.
  

Mysore Dasara (Karnataka)

• One of the most famous state-sponsored Dussehra festivals in India.
• A 10-day royal event featuring cultural performances, exhibitions, and a grand procession with decorated elephants was held at Mysore Palace.
• Officially recognized as a Naada Habba (state festival) of Karnataka.
  

Bommai Golu & Saraswati Puja (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh)

• In the southern states, Vijayadashami is linked with knowledge and learning.
• Celebrated with Golu (doll displays), Saraswati Puja, and initiation of children into education (Vidyarambham).
• No effigy burning; the focus is on divine blessings and cultural preservation.
  

Kullu Dussehra (Himachal Pradesh)

• It starts on Vijayadashami and continues for a week.
• Known for deity processions, folk dances, and community gatherings.
• Highlights Himachal’s devotional and tribal heritage.

Dussehra Rituals & Traditions

a look at the common and culturally significant practices observed during Dussehra or Vijayadashami.

Ravana Dahan (Effigy Burning)

• In North India, towering effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna are filled with firecrackers and set ablaze.
• Large-scale Ram Leela events are staged in cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Lucknow.
  

Durga Visarjan

• In the East and Northeast, Dussehra marks the immersion of Goddess Durga idols after the 9-day Durga Puja.
• Devotees perform final aarti, chant mantras, and carry the idols in processions to rivers or the sea for visarjan.
• This ritual marks the goddess’s return to her divine abode.

Ayudha Puja & Vidyarambham (South India)

• In states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka, the day is reserved for worshipping tools, books, and instruments.
• Saraswati Puja is performed to honor learning and wisdom.
• Vidyarambham, or the initiation of children into education, is a key ritual for families with young children.
  

Shami Puja & Weapon Worship

• In Maharashtra and parts of Karnataka, people worship the Shami tree, believed to be sacred and associated with the Pandavas.
• Weapons, vehicles, and business ledgers are cleaned and adorned with turmeric, vermillion, and flowers.
  

Community Events & Cultural Shows

• Dussehra fairs, folk dances, music performances, and festive markets are common in both rural and urban India.
  

In Mysore, the entire city lights up for Mysore Dasara, which includes a procession of royal elephants and decorated chariots. Grand processions and the worship of Goddess Chamundeshwari are part of the Dasara celebrations.

Ways to Celebrate Dussehra

1. Family Rituals & Festive Meals

Many households observe Dussehra by preparing regional delicacies like Puran Poli, Khichdi, or sweets, while elders often share the story of the festival with younger family members.

1. Starting New Ventures

Dussehra is considered an auspicious day to start new projects, such as launching a business, making major purchases, or starting academic or personal goals.

1. Volunteering & Gifting

Some communities use the occasion to organize charity drives, donate to local causes, or distribute food, clothes, and books — emphasizing the value of giving during times of celebration.

1. Eco-Friendly Observances

To reduce environmental impact, many now opt for green Ravana effigies, paper decorations, and sustainable Durga idol immersions. Digital aartis, online pujas, and Ram Leela streams are also growing in popularity, especially among Indian diaspora families.

Top Things To Do on Dussehra or Vijayadashmi

• Witness the Ramlila: Immerse yourself in the enactment of the Ramayana, the epic tale of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana.
• Embrace New Attire: Dussehra is an occasion to adorn yourself in new clothes, adding a touch of personal style to the festive spirit.
• A Culinary Delights: Savour the unique flavours of Dussehra. From melt-in-your-mouth Mysore Pak to regional delicacies specific to your area, indulge in this culinary extravaganza.
• Strengthen Family Bonds: Dussehra is a time to reconnect with loved ones. Organise family gatherings, exchange gifts, and create lasting memories.
• Explore and Travel: Dussehra can be the perfect time for a short getaway. Explore nearby tourist destinations or visit family in another city.

Also Read: October Holidays

Famous Destinations for Dussehra Celebration

While Dussehra is celebrated across the country, some places are renowned for their spectacular public displays, royal processions, and cultural depth. These destinations draw thousands of visitors every year to witness the festival in its most vivid and iconic forms.

Mysore, Karnataka – The Grand Mysore Dasara

• Officially declared as Naada Habba (State Festival), Mysore Dasara is a 10-day royal celebration.
• The highlight is the Jumbo Savari, a grand procession with caparisoned elephants carrying the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari through the streets.
• Mysore Palace is illuminated with over 100,000 lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
  

Delhi—Ram Leela & Ravana Dahan

• Delhi hosts massive Ram Leela performances in grounds like Red Fort, Subhash Maidan, and Ramlila Maidan.
• On Dussehra evening, towering effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna are burnt in front of huge crowds.
  

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Known for one of the oldest Ram Leelas in India, performed over 30 days at Ramnagar Fort.
The entire city transforms into a stage, with the Ganges ghats and local temples forming part of the set.

• Kolkata, West Bengal
  While known for Durga Puja, the final day, Vijayadashami, is celebrated with Durga idol immersions in the Hooghly River.
• Cultural events, music, and dance performances run round the clock in leading pandals.
  

Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

• Kullu Dussehra begins on Vijayadashami and continues for 7 days.
• Deities from different Himachal villages are brought to the Dhalpur Maidan in a procession, showcasing a unique blend of tribal and folk traditions.
  

Bastar, Chhattisgarh

• Bastar Dussehra is one of the longest-running festivals (75+ days), celebrating local deities and tribal culture rather than Rama or Durga.
  
• It’s deeply spiritual, involving rituals like jatra, muria darbar, and rath yatra.

Balancing Dussehra and Finances

During Dussehra holidays commencing from schools, Banks and other educational institutions, you could be entitled to plan the best cultural getaway for your family or celebrate on a grand scale during that time. It is a joyous occasion, the associated expenses – new clothes, travel, puja requirements, and festive delicacies – can sometimes create a financial strain.  Customers are advised to plan their banking activities accordingly. Digital banking services, however, continue to operate, providing uninterrupted access to financial transactions.

Also Read: Holiday Calendar 2025

Effective Dussehra Holiday Planning

Dussehra’s dates fluctuate slightly each year because of the lunar calendar, typically falling in September or October. To ensure you’re well-prepared, consider:

• Create a Budget: Outline your Dussehra expenses beforehand. Allocate specific amounts for shopping, travel, puja needs, and miscellaneous costs.
• Explore Cost-Effective Options: Research and compare prices for puja items, travel fares, and festive sweets. Consider exploring local markets for better deals.
• Plan Well in Advance: Book travel tickets and pandhal visits (temporary structures for Dussehra celebrations) early to secure better deals and avoid last-minute price hikes.

Managing Dussehra expenses effectively can ensure a stress-free and joyous celebration. At Buddy Loan, we help you avail quick, hassle-free personal loans that can bridge any financial gaps you may encounter during this festive period. If you’re a business owner, consider a business loan to help manage any increased demand or special promotional activities during the festive season.

Also Check: Personal Loan EMI Calculator

Celebrate a Responsible & Joyous Dussehra

Dussehra is a time for celebration, reflection, and strengthening family bonds. By planning your finances strategically and utilising resources like Buddy Loan, you can ensure a stress-free and joyous Dussehra holiday. The Dussehra holiday is more than a break from the daily grind; it’s a celebration of India’s moral and spiritual ethos. It’s a time for reflection, joy, and community bonding. As we observe this holiday, let’s embrace the values of courage, righteousness, and compassion that Dussehra stands for.

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