New Delhi: Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Tuesday extended greetings to citizens across the country and members of the Indian diaspora worldwide on the occasion of Dussehra and Vijayadashami, saying the festivals reinforce faith in truth, righteousness and justice and symbolise the eternal victory of good over evil.
V-P Radhakrishnan took to social media ‘X’ and said, “On the auspicious occasions of Dussehra and Vijayadashami, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens and Indian diaspora across the world.”
He also shared a message and said, “Dussehra and Vijayadashami greetings. On the auspicious occasions of Dussehra and Vijayadashami, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens and Indian diaspora across the world. Celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm across the country in diverse forms, these festivals reflect Bharat’s rich cultural heritage, shared civilisational values and the enduring spirit of unity in diversity. They remind us of the eternal triumph of good over evil and reaffirm our faith in truth, righteousness and justice.”
“May these festive occasions strengthen our bonds of harmony and brotherhood and inspire us to work together towards a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Bharat,” he said.
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is being celebrated across most parts of the country on Tuesday. The festival commemorates Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, the king of Lanka, as described in the epic Ramayana. The occasion is marked by religious ceremonies, cultural programmes, Ramlila performances and the traditional burning of effigies of Ravana, his son Meghnad and his brother Kumbhakarna.
According to Drik Panchang, the Dashami Tithi begins at 12:50 p.m. on October 20 and concludes at 2:11 p.m. on October 21. In New Delhi, the Vijay Muhurat, considered an auspicious period for performing rituals associated with Vijayadashami, will be observed from 1:59 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. on October 20.
The annual Ravan Dahan ceremony is among the major highlights of Dussehra celebrations in several parts of India. The burning of the effigies represents the destruction of evil and the victory of virtue over arrogance and injustice. Large gatherings are expected at various venues, where people participate in festivities following days of Ramlila performances depicting significant episodes from Lord Rama’s life.
Vijayadashami marks the culmination of Durga Puja celebrations in several regions and commemorates Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of divine power over evil.
Although celebrated through different customs and traditions across the country, Dussehra conveys a common message of courage, integrity and the importance of standing up for righteousness. The festival encourages people to reflect on these values and incorporate them into their everyday lives while strengthening social harmony and mutual respect.