New Delhi: Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the major festivals of India. This festival symbolizes the victory of righteousness over unrighteousness and good over evil. According to Ramayana, on this day Lord Shri Ram killed Lanka's ruler Ravana and freed Mother Sita. Dussehra is celebrated every year in memory of this victory. On this day, there is a tradition of burning the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnad across the country, but along with it there are many unique traditions which are followed in different states.
Why is Jalebi eaten after Ravana Dahan?
You must have seen in the Dussehra fair that people definitely eat Jalebi after burning Ravana. In North India, eating Jalebi on Dussehra is considered auspicious. It is believed that Lord Shri Ram was very fond of the sweet named Shashkuli, which is today's Jalebi. After the victory over Ravana, happiness was celebrated by distributing this sweet, since then this tradition has been going on. Whereas, according to another belief, the sweetness of Jalebi and its round shape is a symbol of sweetness, happiness, prosperity and joy of victory in life.
tradition of feeding paan
At many places on Dussehra, people congratulate each other by feeding them paan. In Hindu religion, betel leaf is considered very sacred and auspicious. Betel leaf is used in every worship and religious function. Betel leaf is considered auspicious on the day of Vijayadashami. Feeding it is a symbol of love, respect and mutual brotherhood. However, the belief behind it is slightly different in every state.
Distributing Shami leaves as 'gold'
There is a custom of distributing Shami leaves on Dussehra in many states including Maharashtra. These leaves are given to each other as a symbol of gold. People wish happiness, good fortune and progress by giving Shami leaves to each other. This tradition conveys the message of praying for prosperity and success in the lives of one's loved ones.
Importance of Tika and Shastra Puja
There is also a special tradition of getting vaccinated on Dussehra, which is more prevalent in Nepal. The elders of the house apply tilak of curd, rice and vermilion on the forehead of the younger ones and bless them for long life and success. Apart from this, Shastra Puja is performed on this day in South India. On this day people honor their duty and knowledge by worshiping their tools, books, machines and weapons.