~ Hindu Festivals ~

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Durga Puja Date

Durga Puja is an important Hindu festival in India. It is also known as 'Durgotsab' or 'Navratra'. It is basically a ten days long festival in which Durga or Shakti, the Goddess of power is worshipped. The Goddess is worshipped in nine different forms namely Shailputri, Brahmcharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri in a long and intricate affair. Though this festival is celebrated throughout the country, the zeal and enthusiasm of the celebrations in the northern belt of the country in the state of West Bengal, Orissa, Bihar and Tripura is incomparable to any other place. The celebrations in the capital of West Bengal, Kolkata is renowned all over the world.

Durga Puja falls between the autumn months of September end to November beginning. The dates of the Pooja are decided according to the Hindu religious calendar. Most of the religions now follow either a solar calendar or a lunar calendar. But for the majority of Hindus, it is a combination of both and a sole decider of the dates of the religious celebrations. According to the Hindu solar calendar, Durga Pooja falls begins on the first day of Ashwin month and go on till the nine days of the month. The days are counted in accordance with sun rise and sun set. However, timings of all religious ceremonies are decided according to the lunar months.

The religious ceremonies of the Hindu Bengalis are as per the traditions and are scheduled in accordance with the timings of the moon's movement, which is called as 'Tithhi'. Thus, the entire schedule of the Puja is also structured on the basis of the 'Tithhi'. The Devi Paksha i.e. the fortnight in which the Puja falls is decided in with the auspicious occasion of the Mahalaya (the day which indicates the homecoming of Mother Goddess), which falls on the day of the New moon.

The Durga Pooja is celebrated for nine days. However the last six days are more festive than the first three. From the day of Shashti i.e the sixth day, community gathering, celebrations and feasts begin with immense fervor. The last four days of Puja begins from the sixth day of the full moon phase that follows the Mahalaya and finishes with the Dashami or the tenth day. In between these six days, there are different kinds of special ceremonies on Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Nabami. In the wee hours of 'Saptami,' the 'Pran' or life of the Devi is brought from a nearby pond or river in a banana tree and installed inside the idol. Customs like 'Sandhikshan,' the crossover time between Ashtami and Navami are also done in accordance with the 'ghadi and tithi' as per the calendar. Then on the last day, Dashami is celebrated. It is four days short of the full moon night, called Kojagori Purnima.

Durga Puja 2012
20th October 2012 - Shashti
21st October 2012 - Saptami
22nd October 2012 - Ashtami
23rd October 2012 - Navami
24th October 2012 - Vijaya Dashmi

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Different Forms of Durga

The festival of Durga Puja is celebrated with religious observance by the Bengalis all over the world. During the festive season, the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshipped on the nine days, each symbolizing a religious significance. Named differently, each form of the deity had different goals, when they assumed their avatars. Worshipping the nine forms of Goddess Durga is considered auspicious, because the deity brings the qualities of power, wisdom and courage to her devotees. In this article, we have given comprehensive information on the different forms of Durga.

Nine Forms Of Goddess Durga

Shailputri
The first form of Goddess Durga is referred to as Shailputri or the Daughter of Mountain. She is a daughter of Himalayas. In the previous birth, she was born as Sati-Bhavani, the daughter of Daksha. She had married Lord Shiva, without her father's consent. One fine day, Daksha organized a Yagna, wherein he didn't invite Lord Shiva. Since Sati was obstinate, she went to her father's place and attended the Yagna. Thereupon, Daksha insulted Lord Shiva. Humiliated and angered by her father, because he insulted her husband, Sati burnt herself in the fire of the Yagna.

Brahmacharini
The second form of Goddess Durga is called 'Brahmacharini'. Her name is derived from the word 'Brahma', which means 'Tapa' or penace. Brahmacharini is gorgeous and has a good conduct. She holder a rosary in her right hand, while Kamandal in her left hand. Full of merriment, Brahmacharini is worshipped on the second day of Durga Puja. A famous story is associated with Brahmacharini. According to the legend, she was born as Parvati Hemavati, the daughter of Himvan. One fine day, when Parvati was playing with her friends, sage Narada approached her.

Sage Narada told that she would marry her husband from her previous birth on a condition that she would have to observe penance. After hearing this, she decided that she would tie the wedding knot with none other than Shambhu (Lord Shiva), her husband in the previous birth. After saying this, she went to observe penance. This is the reason, why she is referred as Tapacharini or Brahmnacharini. From that time, she also came to be known as Uma.

Chandraghanta
The third form of Goddess Durga, referred to as Chandraghanta, represents bravery. The charming, bright Chandraghanta looks gorgeous. She has a half-circular moon in her forehead, hence the name 'Chandraghanta'. With three eyes, she is golden in color. Ten types of weapons, including sword and arrows are held by her ten hands. Seated on a lion, she is always ready to go to war. The unprecedented bravery of Chandraghanta is worshipped on the third day of Durga Puja.

Kushmanda
Kushmanda, the fourth form of Goddess Durga, resides in solar systems. It is believed that Kushmanda is the creator of the entire Universe. According to the legends, she created the Universe by merely laughing. She hands eight hands out of which, seven hold weapons and the eight one bears a string of beads. With rosary in her right hand, she sits on Lion. The deity is worshipped on the fourth day of Durga Pooja.

Skanda Mata
In her fifth form, Goddess Durga is known as 'Skanda Mata'. After observing penance, Goddess Parvati tied the wedding knot with Lord Shiva. Their son is Skanda, the leader of the army of Gods. Therefore, the fourth form of Goddess Durga is referred to as Skanda Mata, the Mother of Skanda. The deity of fire - Skanda Mata - is white in color, has three eyes and four hand. She is seated on a lion, with her son (Skanda), on her lap.

Katyayani
Katyayani is the sixth form of Goddess Durga. As per the legends, Rishi Katyayan was born in his 'Katya' lineage. He observed penance, because he wanted to get paramba as his daughter. Pleased with her prayers, Goddess Durga blessed him and took birth as his daughter. The daughter was then named as 'Katyayani'. Seated on her vehicle lion, Katyayani has three eyes and four hands.

Kalratri
The seventh form of Goddess Durga is popularly known as 'Kalratri'. As the name suggests, Kalrati is as black as a dark night. With bountiful unlocked hair, Kalratri wears necklaces that shine like lightening. She is personified as the deity of power, with large eyes and fire that is breathed by her. Kalratri is also referred to as Shubhamkari, as she makes her devotees fearless. She has four hands, with a sharp sword in her left hand and a burning torch in her lower left hand, her lower and upper right hand that shows blessings.

Maha Gauri
The eighth form of Ma Durga is called 'Maha Gauri'. She is as white as a conch and is eight years old. She is clad in a snow white cloth and is accessorized with white colored ornaments. With three eyes and four hands, she rides on a bull. Her left hand shows the fearless Mudra, while her lower left hand holds a Trishul. Calm and peaceful Maha Gauri observed penance. According to the legends, when she observed penance and got dirty due to dust, Lord Shiva cleansed her body with the Holy Water of Ganges, flowing through his head.

Siddhidatri
The ninth and last form of Goddess Durga is known as Siddhidatri. It is believed that Lord Shiva all the eight Siddhis (Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Lishitya and Vashitva) by offering prayers to Maha Shakti. With her gratitude, the half portion of the body of Lord Shiva became of Goddess Shakti. Hence, he is called 'Ardhanarishwaran'. Siddhidatri has all the eight Siddhis. She rides on a lotus. Siddhidatri is worshipped by all the other Gods and the Rishis-Munis, Siddhas, Sadhakas and Yogis. It is believed that worshipping her is best for attaining religious asset.

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Durga Chalisa

Durga Chalisa is a devotional 40 verse song written in the praise of Goddess Durga. It is more like an ode which includes praises regarding her beauty, strength and courage. It is said that recitation of Durga Chalisa by immense devotion pleases the deity. Many people religiously chant these mantras everyday. Durga Chalisa is said to bring auspiciousness to home and luck and pleasure to the family of those who regularly chant this chalisa. Given here is the Hindi as well as English translation of the Chalisa. Read on to explore the wonderful description of Maa Durga.

Durga Chalisa in Hindi

Namo Namo Durge Sukh karani,
Namo Namo ambe Dukh harani.

Nirakar hai jyoti tumhari,
Tihun lok pheli ujayari.

Shashi lalat mukh mahavishala,
Netra lal bhrikutee vikarala.

Roop Matu ko adhika suhave,
Daras karat jan ati sukh pave.

Tum sansar shakti laya kina,
Palan hetu anna dhan dina.

Annapurna hui jag pala,
Tumhi adi sundari Bala.

Pralaya kala sab nashan hari,
Tum gauri Shiv-Shankar pyari.

Shiv yogi tumhre guna gaven,
Brahma Vishnu tumhen nit dhyaven

Roop Saraswati ko tum dhara,
De subuddhi rishi munina ubara.

Dharyo roop Narsimha ko amba,
Pragat bhayin phar kar khamba.

Raksha kari Prahlaad bachayo,
Hiranakush ko swarga pathayo.

Lakshmi roop dharo jag mahin,
Shree Narayan anga samihahin.

Ksheer sindhu men karat vilasa,
Daya Sindhu, deeje man asa.

Hingalaja men tumhin Bhavani,
Mahima amit na jet bakhani.

Matangi Dhoomavati Mata,
Bhuvneshwari bagala sukhdata.

Shree Bhairav lara jog tarani,
Chhinna Bhala bhav dukh nivarani.

Kehari Vahan soh Bhavani,
Langur Veer Chalat agavani.

Kar men khappar khadag viraje,
Jako dekh kal dan bhaje.

Sohe astra aur trishoola,
Jase uthata shatru hiya shoola.

Nagarkot men tumhi virajat,
Tihun lok men danka bajat.

Shumbhu Nishumbhu Danuja tum mare,
Rakta-beeja shankhan samhare.

Mahishasur nripa ati abhimani
Jehi agha bhar mahi akulani.

Roop karal Kalika dhara,
Sen Sahita tum tin samhara.

Pan garha Santan par jab jab,
Bhayi sahaya Matu tum tab tab.

Amarpuni aru basava loka,
Tava Mahirna sab rahen asoka.

Jwala men hai jyoti tumhari,
Tumhen sada poojen nar nari.

Prem bhakti se Jo yash gave,
Dukh-daridra nikat nahin ave.

Dhyave tumhen jo nar man laee,
Janam-maran tako chuti jaee.

Jogi sur-muni kahat pukari,
Jog na ho bin shakti tumhari.

Shankar Aacharaj tap keenhon,
Kam, krodha jeet sab leenhon.

Nisidin dhyan dharo Shankar ko,
Kahu kal nahini sumiro tum ko.

Shakti roop ko maran na payo,
Shakti gayi tab man pachitayo.

Sharnagat hui keerti bakhani,
Jai jai jai Jagdamb Bhavani.

Bhayi prasanna Aadi Jagdamba,
Dayi shakti nahin keen vilamba.

Mokon Matu kashta ati ghero,
Tum bin kaun hare dukh mero.

Aasha trishna nipat sataven,
Moh madadik sab binsaven.

Shatru nash keeje Maharani,
Sumiron ekachita tumhen Bhavani.

Karo kripa Hey Matu dayala,
Riddhi-Siddhi de karahu nihala.

Jab lagi jiyoon daya phal paoon
Tumhro yash men sada sunaoon.

Durga Chalisa jo gave,
Sab sukh bhog parampad pave.

Devidas sharan nij jani
Karahoun kripa jagadamba bhavani

English Translation of Durga Chalisa

I bow to You O Goddess Durga, the bestower of happiness!
I bow to You O Goddess Amba, who ends all miseries.

The radiance of your light is infinite and all encompassing and all the three
realms (Earth, Heaven And the Nether World) are enlightened by Thee.

Your face is like the moon and mouth very huge. Your eyes shine with a
red glow and You have a Frightening frown.

O Mother! Your look is enchanting, the very sight of which ensures welfare
of the devout.

All the powers of the World repose in Thee and it is You who provide food and
wealth for the World's survival.

Like the feeding Mother Annapoorna, You nurture the whole universe and You are the one who appears like the timeless Bala Sundari (young girl of extreme beauty).

At the time of dissolution, it is You, O Mother, who destroys everything. You are the beloved Consort of Lord Shiva, Gauri (Parvati).

Lord Shiva and all yogis always chant your praise Brahma,
Vishnu and all other Gods ever meditate on you.

You appear in the form of Goddess Saraswati too,
to grant wisdom to the sages and thus ensure their Welfare.

O Mother Amba! It was you who appeared in the form
of Narsimha, sundering the pillar.

Thus you saved Prahlad and Hiranyakashyap also went to
Heaven as he was killed by your Hands.

In the form of Goddess Lakshmi, O Mother, you appear in
this world and repose by the side of Shree Narayan.

Dwelling in the ocean of milk, O Goddess, with Lord Vishnu,
please fulfill my desires.

O Bhavani, the famous Goddess of Hingalaja is no one else but
you. Illimitable is your Glory, defying description.

You are yourself Matangi and Dhoomavati Mata. It is you, who appear as
Bhuvaneshwari and Bagalamukhi Devi to bestow happiness to all the people of this earth

It is you, who redeem the wolrd, appearing in the form of Shree Bhairavi,
Taradevi and Chhinnamasta Devi, and end its sorrows.

Reposing gracefully uopn your vehicle, O Goddess Bhavani, You are welcome
by the brave Langour (Lord Hanuman).

When you appear in the form of Goddess Kali, with sword in one hand and a
cupel in the other, even time flees in panic.

Beholding you, well armed, with a trident in your hand, the enemy's
heart aches with the sting Of fear.

You also repose in the form of Devi at Nagarkot in Kangara. Thus all the
three realms shudder in the might of your glory.

You slayed the demons like Shumbh & Nishumb and massacred the
thousand forms of the dreaded Demon Raktabeej.

When the earth was severely distressed bearing the load of the sins
of the arrogant Mahishasur.

You assumed the dreadful form of Goddess Kali and
massacred him along with his army.

Thus, whenever the noble saints were distressed,
it is You O Mother, who came to their rescue.

All the realms including the Amarpuri (divine realm) remain
sorrow-less and happy by Your Grace. O Goddess!

It is the symbol of your glory that is burning brightly at Shree JwalaJi.
All me and women Ever worship You, O Mother!

He who sings your glory with devotion, love, and sincerity remains
beyond the reach of grief And poverty.

He who meditates upon your form with concentration goes
beyond the cycle of births and deaths.

All the yogis, gods and sages openly declare that without your
favor one can't establish communion with God.

Shankaracharya had performed once a special penance called
Aacharaj and by virtue of which he had subdued his anger and desire.

He ever worshipped Lord Shankar and never for a moment
concentrated his mind on You.

Since He did not realise your immense glory, all his powers
waned and then He repented hitherto.

Then he sought refuge in you, chanted your glory and
'victory, victory, victory to Thee, O Jagadamba Bhavani'.

Then, O Primal Goddess Jagadamba Ji, you were propitiated and
in no time You bestowed Him with his lost powers.

O Mother! Severe afflictions distress me and no one except your
honored Self can provide relief please end my afflictions.

Hopes and longings ever torture me. All sorts of passions and
lust ever torment my heart.

O Goddess Bhavani! I meditate only upon you Please
kill my enemies O Queen!

O Merciful Mother! Show me your favour and make me feel
happy by bestowing me with all sorts of riches and powers.

O Mother! May I be receptable of Your grace as long as I live,
ever recounting the feats of Your Glory to all.

This way, whoever sings this Durga Chalisa shall ever enjoy all
sorts of pleasures and shall attain the highest state in the end.

Deeming Devidas to have sought Your shelter, O Bhavani, grant me Your favor.
Jai Maa Bhagwati!

[MysteRy]

Durga Puja in Kolkata

One of the biggest social events of India, Durga Puja is considered the main festival for Bengalis. It is a ten-day carnival in West Bengal, the eastern state of India. Magnificently created puja pandals are erected at every other street of Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal. Every pooja pandal is unique in its own terms, with beautiful patterns that are true delight to the eyes. A spurt of fanfare can be sensed all through the ten days, especially on the last four days of the festival. Bengalis in the metro city rejoice to their heart's content. They consider the festival as a wonderful occasion to reconnect to their family and friends. The air is filled with festivity, during the season. In the following lines, we have provided information on the celebrations of Durga Puja in Kolkata.

Durga Pooja Celebrations In Kolkata

Preparations
The preparations of the festival commence one or two months in advance. Puja bonus (extra money apart from the salary) is given to the employees of both government and private organizations, in Kolkata, since the bread-winner of the family brings in clothes and furbishes for the home, during the festive season. Pre-pooja bargain sales are displayed by shops, as they cash in a lot during the festival. Every household prepares itself to welcome the season, with great enthusiasm.

Pre-Puja Celebrations
Celebrations of the festival start with Mahalaya, the first phase of the waxing moon in Aswin. During the time, about thousands of people offer prayers to their ancestors at the city's river banks. This ritual is referred to as 'Tarpan'. The festive mood builds up in the people, when Dhakis (drummers) belonging to the countryside start gathering near the city. The local Puja organizers are attracted by the feathered drums played by the drummers.

Making Of Idol
While the festival was celebrated within the families some times back, it has taken the shape of a community festival, celebrated at Puja pandals. The construction of the deity of Goddess Durga and other gods start a couple of months prior to the festival. A place in the north Kolkata - Kumartuli is famous for the production of beautiful idols made of clay. This is the region, where expert artisans show their dexterity of making idols of Goddess Durga, the demon Mahisasura, Lord Kartik, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Saraswati and Goddess Lakshmi, required for the festival.

Construction Of Puja Pandal
Puja pandal is the main attraction of Durga Puja. Many people are expert at making magnificent Puja pandal, (the covered huge stage for the Puja), by using paper, wood, bamboos, clothes and other materials. They come up with a number of innovative ideas every year and cash in a lot of money by erecting the Puja pandals that comprise of mesmerizing art work. Some pandals are also built as the replica of world-famous structures.

Celebrations On The Main Days Of Puja
The main days of Durga Puja are seventh, eight, ninth and the tenth day. The festival picks up pace on the sixth day - Maha Shashti. The long and details rituals of the Puja start on the seventh day. An expert priest is called upon to chant mantras, shlokas and perform aarti and offerings at the Puja pandal. Apart from the rituals, cultural activities such as song and dance competitions and games are also organized during the last four days of the festival. Professional singers are called upon to sing bhajans and stuti, to praise Goddess Durga. Outside the pandal, the city is illuminated with display of sparkling and colorful lights. Educational institutions and offices are closed during the four main days of Durga Puja. To put it in simple words, it can be said that Durga Pooja is the greatest festival of Kolkata.

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Durga Puja Fast

Durga Puja, the ten-day long festival, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. Apart from feasting, people indulge in fasting with sincerity, in order to show their dedication to the festival and their devotion to Goddess Durga. It is believed that fasting strengthens one's capacity of tolerance. Fasting doesn't mean that one has to starve all through the day. When people are fasting, they follow a diet that is formulated in such a way that they get enough energy to stay focused on the celebrations, without exhausting. If you want to know how people fast during Durga Pooja and the significance of fasting, then go through the following lines.

Fasting During Durga Pooja

Motive Of Fasting
People following Hinduism have high regards for Goddess Durga, as she is the deity of power, courage and strength. According to them, fasting is an important part of worship to any deity. The spiritual motive of fasting during Durga Pooja is to deny the physical needs of the body and attain spiritual gains, apart from the blessings of the Goddess. The process also helps gain a harmonious coordination between the body and the soul and increases the concentration and tolerance power as well. The scientific reason behind fasting during the festival is to give rest to the digestive organs and cleanse the body of toxic materials.

Fasting In Different Parts Of India
In northern India, particularly in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, there are people who fast for nine days of Durga Puja. In fact, it is a ritual for the people residing there, to fast during the festive season. Non-vegetarian food is completely avoided during fasting. The fast is broken only on the Maha Ashtami or Maha Navami by offering food to beggars and worshipping young girls. The people, who have hosted the feast, worship young girls, as they are regarded as the 'kanya avatar' of Goddess Durga.

Fasting during Durga Pooja in eastern and western parts of India is a bit different from that seed in northern part of the country. At several places in eastern India, there is a tradition of sowing barley seeds, when fasting is observed during the Durga Pooja. A small bed of mud is prepared in a little container, wherein small barley seeds are sown. During the fasting period, this container is placed in the Puja room. As the days pass by, the barley seeds begin to sprout. As the fast culminates, the seeds would reach a height of 3-5 inches, which would be pulled out and offers to devotees as a form of blessings by Goddess Durga.

Changing Trend
Over the passing years, the ritual of fasting has seen a drastic change. The perception of starving for the whole day, during a fast, has changed completely. Today, people do not want to run out of their energy levels. Therefore, they eat foods and snack items, such as vrat ke namkeen, vrat ki chaat, that are prepared using rock salt (sendha namak). Apart from fruits and milk, people also drink tea, in regular intervals. Restaurants in the metro cities also offer special menu for fasting during Durga Puja, to satisfy their taste buds.

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Durga Kawach

Durga Puja is a ceremonious occasion, wherein a number of rituals are performed to please the deity of power and courage - Goddess Durga. On the occasion, the devotees of the Goddess chant mantras and sing bhajans, to praise her. One of the very ancient mantras is Durga Kavach, which is a compilation of special shlokas from the Markandey Purana. A part of Durga Saptashti, the shlokas of Durga Kavach should be pronounced accurately, because it is said that wrong pronunciation decreases the power of the shlokas. Chanting Durga Kawach during the festival is considered auspicious by devotees of Ma Durga. So, this Durga Pooja, chant Shree Durga Kawach and seek the blessings of the deity. Given below is Shri Durga Kavach.

Shri Durga Kavach

Atha DevyaaH Kavacham.h
AUM Asya Shrii Chandii Kavachasya
Brahmaa RishhiH AnushhTup.h ChhandaH Chaamundaa Devataa
Angaanyaa Soktamaataro Biijam.h Digbandha Devataa Stattvam.h
Shri Jagadamba aPriityarthe Saptashatii PaathaaN Gatvena Jape Viniyogah
AUM Namash Chandikaayai

Maarkandeya Uvaacha
AUM YadhgoohyaM Paramam Loke
Sarva Rakshaakaram NRiNaam.h
Yaanna Kasyachidaakhyaatam
Tanme Bruuhi Pitaamaha

Brahmo Vaach
Asti Goohyatamam Vipra
Sarva bhuuto pakaarakam.h
Devyaastu kavacham punyam
takshinashva Mahaamune

Prathamam Shailaputrii cha
DvitiiyaM Brahmachaarinii
Tritiiyam Chandra ghanteti
Kushmaandeti Chaturthakam.h

Panchamam Skandamaateti
Shhashhtham Kaatyaayaniiti cha
Saptamam Kaalaraatriiti
Mahaagauriitichaashhtamam.h

Navamam Siddhidaatrii cha
Navadurgaah Prakiirtitaah
Uktaanyetaani naamaani
brahmanaiva mahaatmanaa

Agninaa Dahyamaanastu
Shatrumadhye Gato RaNe
Vishhame Durgame chaiva
bhayaarh Sharanam Gataah

Na Teshhaa.n Jaayate
KinchidashubhamranasamkaTe
Naapadam Tasya Pashyaami
Shokaduhkhabhayam na hi

Yaistu Bhaktyaa Smritaa Nuunam
Teshhaa.n vRiddhiH Prajaayate
Ye Tvaan Smaranti Deveshi
Rakshase Taanna Samshayah

Pretasamsthaa tu Chaamundaa
Vaaraahii Mahishhaasanaa
Aindrii GajasamaaruuDhaa
Vaishhnavii Garudaasanaa

Maaheshvarii vRishhaaruuDhaa
Kaumaarii Shikhivaahanaa
LakshmiiH Padmaasanaa
Devii Padmahastaa Hari Priyaa

Shvetaruupadharaa Devii
Iishvarii vRishhavaahanaa
Braahmii hamsasamaaruuDhaa
Sarvaabharanabhuushhitaa

Ityetaa Maatarah Sarvaah
Sarvayoga Samanvitaah
Naanaabharanashobhaaghyaa
naanaaratno pashobhitaah

dRitiyante RathamaaruuDhaa
Devyah Krodhasamaakulaah
ShaNkhaM Chakram Gadaa.n
Shakti.n Halamcha Musalaayudhamh

Khetakam Tomaram Chaiva
Parashu.n Paashameva cha
Kuntaayudham TrishuulaM cha
Shaaraamaayudhamuttamam.h

Daityaanaa.n Dehanaashaaya
Bhaktaanaamabhayaaya cha
DhaarayantyaayudhaaniitthaM
Devaanaa.n cha Hitaaya vai

Namaste.astu Mahaaraudre
Mahaaghoraparaakrame
Mahaabale Mahotsaahe
Mahaabhayavinaashini

Traahi maa.n Devi Dushhprekshye
Shatruunaa.n bhayavardhini
Praachyaa.n Rakshatu Maamaindrii
Aagneyyaamagnidevataa

Dakshine.avatu Vaaraahii
nairityaa.n khadgadhaarinii
Pratiichyaa.n Vaarunii Rakshed.h
Vaayavyaa.n mRigavaahinii

Udiichyaa.n Paatu Kaumaarii
Aishaanyaa.n Shuuladhaarinii
Uurdhva.n Brahmaani me Rakshe
dadhastaad.h Vaishhnavii Tathaa

Evam Dasha Disho Rakshechchaamundaa
Shavavaahanaa yaa me
Chaagratah Paatu Vijaya
Paatu pRishhThatah
Ajitaa Vaama Paarshve tu
Dakshine Chaaparaajitaa
Shikhaamudyotinii Rakshedumaa
Muurdhini Vyavasthitaa

Maalaadharii LalaaTe cha
Bhruvau Rakshed.h Yashasvinii
Trinetraa cha Bhruvormadhye
Yamaghantaa cha Naasike

ShaNkhinii chakshushhormadhye
Shrotrayorrdvaavaasinii
Kapolau Kaalikaa Rakshetkarnamuule
tu ShaaNkarii

Naasikaayaa.n Sugandhaa cha
Uttaroshhthe cha Charchikaa
Adhare ChaamRitakalaa
Jihvaayaa.n cha Sarasvatii

Dantaan.h Rakshatu Kaumarii
kanthadeshe tu chandikaa
Ghantikaa.n Chitraghantaa cha
Mahaamaayaa cha Taaluke

Kaamaakshii Chibukam Rakshed.h
Vaacham me SarvamaNgalaa
Griivaayaa.n Bhadrakaalii cha pRishh
Thavamshe Dhanurdharii

Niilagriivaa BahihkanThe
Nalikaa.n Nalakuubarii
Skandhayoh KhaNginii Rakshed.h
Baahuu me Vajradhaarinii

Hastayordandinii Rakshedambikaa
ChaaNguliishhu cha
NakhaaJNchhuuleshvarii
Rakshetkukshaurakshetkuleshvarii

Stanaurakshenmahaadevii
Manahshokavinaashinii
HRidaye Lalitaa Devii
Udare ShuuladhaariNii

Naabhau cha Kaaminii Rakshed.h
GuhyaM Guhyeshvarii tathaa
Puutanaa Kaamikaa me
DhraM Gude Mahishhavaahinii

KaTiyaa.n Bhagavatii Rakshejjaanunii
Vindhyavaasinii
JaNghe MahaabalaaRakshet
sarvakaamapradaayinii

Gulphayornaarasi.nhii cha
PaadapRishhThe tu Taijasii
PaadaaNguliishhu Shrii
Rakshetpaadaadhastalavaasinii

Nakhaan.h DamshhTraakaraalii cha
keshaa.nsh{}chaivo{dhva}.rkeshinii
Romakuupeshhu Kauberii
TvachaM Vaagiishvarii tathaa 33

Raktamajjaavasaamaansaan
yasthimedaa.nsi Paarvatii
Antraani Kaalaraatrishcha
Pittam cha Mukuteshvarii 34

Padmaavatii Padmakoshe Kaphe
ChuuDaamaNistathaa
Jvaalaamukhii Nakhajvaalaa
mabhedyaa Sarvasandhishhu 35

Shukram Brahmaani me
Rakshechchhaayaa.n
Chhatreshvarii tathaa Ahamkaaram
Mano Buddhi.n Rakshenme Dharmadhaarinii

PraaNaapaanau Tathaa
Vyaanamudaanam cha Samaanakam.h
Vajrahastaa cha meRakshet.h
praanam Kalyaanashobhanaa

Rase Ruupe cha Gandhe cha
Shabde Sparshe cha Yoginii
Sattvam Rajastamashchaiva
RakshennaaraayaNii sadaa

Aayuu Rakshatu Vaaraahii
Dharmam Rakshatu Vaishhnavii
Yashah Kiirti.n cha Lakshmii.n cha
Dhanam Vidyaa.n cha Chakrinii

Gotramindraani me Rakshet
pashuunme Raksha Chandike
Putraan.h Rakshenmahaalakshmiir
bhaaryaa.n Rakshatu Bhairavii

Panthaanam Supathaa rakshen
maargam Kshemakarii tathaa
Raajadvaare Mahaalakshmiir
vijayaa Sarvatah Sthitaa

Rakshaahiinam tu Yatsthaanam
Varjitam Kavachena tu
Tatsarvam Raksha me Devi
Jayantii Paapanaashinii

Padamekam na Gachchhettu
Yadiichchhechchhubhamaatmanah
Kavachenaa vRito NityaM
Yatra Yatraiva Gachchhati

Tatra Tatraarthalaabhashcha Vijayah Saarvakaamikah
Yam Yam Chintayate Kaamam
Tam Tam Praapnoti nishchitam.h
Paramaishvaryamatulam Praapsyate Bhuutale Pumaan.h

Nirbhayo Jaayate martyah
samgraameshhvaparaajitaH
Trailokye tu Bhavetpuujyah
KavachenaavRitah Pumaan.h

Idam tu Devyaah Kavacham
Devaanaamapi Durlabham.h
Yah PaThet.hprayato Nityam
Trisandhyam Shraddhayaanvitah

Daivii Kalaa Bhavettasya
Trailokyeshhvaparaajitah
Jiived.h Varshhashatam
saagramapamRityuvivarjitah

Nashyanti Vyaadhayah Sarve
LuutaavisphoTakaadayah
Sthaavaram JaNgamam Chaiva
KRitrimam Chaapi Yadvishham.h

Abhichaaraani Sarvaani
Mantrayantraani Bhuutale
Bhuucharaah Khecharaashchaiva
jalajaashchopadeshikaah

Sahajaa Kulajaa Maalaa
Daakinii Shaakinii Tathaa
Antarikshacharaa Ghoraa
Daakinyashcha MahaabalaaH

Grahabhuutapishaachaashcha
Yakshagandharvaraakshasaah
Brahmaraakshasavetaalaah
Kushhmaandaa Bhairavaadayah

Nashyanti Darshanaattasya
Kavache HRidi Samsthite
Maanonnatirbhaved.h Raag
yastejovRiddhikaram Param.h

Yashasaa varddharte so.api
Kiirti Manditabhuutale
Japetsaptashatii.n Chandii.n
kRitvaa tu Kavacham Puraa

Yaavadbhuumandalam
Dhatte Sashailavanakaananam.h
TaavattishhThati medinyaa.n
Santatih Putra Pautrikii

Dehaante Paramam Sthaanam
Yatsurairapi Durlabham.h
Praapnoti Purushho Nityam
Mahaamaayaa PrasaadataH

Labhate Paramam Ruupam
Shivena Saha Modate. AUM

[MysteRy]

Story of Durga Puja

Durga Pooja is an integral part of the Hindu culture in India. Celebrated in between September to November throughout the country, this Pooja is considered to be one of the most complex and difficult Pooja out of all the Hindu ceremonies. It is a nine days long affair in which the Goddess of Power ‘ Maa Durga’ is worshipped in nine different forms namely Shailputri, Brahmcharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri. It is said that worshipping Goddess Durga with full devotion brings success, luck, health and prosperity to one’s family. There are also several legends and stories associated with this Pooja, to know them in detail, read on.

Legends of Durga Puja

Goddess Durga
Goddess Durga is considered to be a united front of all Divine forces against the evil and wickedness existing in the society. It is said that whenever the evil would upsurge on earth, the Gods will unite together to eliminate those forces and establish a kingdom of peace and prosperity. Likewise, when the terror of the buffalo headed ‘Mahishasur’ took a toll on the life of innocent and poor devotees of the Gods, the gods in heaven decided to create an all-powerful being to kill the demon king Mahishasur. As Mahishasur was destined to be killed only a women, Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh created a beautiful, magnificent woman with ten hands with their power. All the gods then furnished her with their special weapons. She was then named Durga i.e ‘the invincible’. Durga ten fought against Mahishasur for nine days and finally killed him on the occasion of ‘Vijayadashmi’.

Pandavas
Another story associated with Durga Pooja has been taken from the great epic ‘Mahabharata’. It is said that on the occasion of Vijayadashmi, the Pandavas declared their true identity after spending their last year of exile in disguise. They brought down the weapons from the Shami tree which they had hung over there before entering the palace of King Virat and entering into the phase of disguise. It is said that since then the exchange of Shami leaves on the Vijayadashmi day became symbol of good, will and victory.

Lord Rama
The significance of Durga Pooja has also been inscribed in the great Hindu epic ‘Ramayana. It has been said that the Lord Ram before going on a war with the ten headed demon ‘Ravana’ did "chandi-puja and invoked the blessings of Durga so that he could become invincible. Durga, the Goddess of power then divulged the secret to Ram how he could kill Ravana.

Kautsa
Another interesting story associated with Durga Pooja is that of ‘Kautsa’, the young son of Devdatt. It is said that after completion of his studies he insisted on his guru Varatantu to accept ‘gurudakshina’. After lots of request his Guru, finally asked for 14 crore gold coins, one crore for each of the 14 sciences he taught Kautsa. Kautsa then went to king Raghuraj, the ancestor of Rama who was known for his generosity but just at that time he had emptied all his coffers on the Brahmins, after performing the Vishvajit sacrifice. So, Raghuraj went to Lord Indra and asked for some gold coins. Indra in return asked Kuber, the god of wealth to make rainfall of gold coins on the "shanu" and "apati" trees round Raghuraja's city of Ayodhya. In this manner Raghu was able to fulfill his promise to Kautsa. The remaining coins were lavishly dispersed to the people of Ayodhya city. As this event happened on the day of ‘Vijaya Dashmi’, it has become a custom of this day to collect "apati" leaves and exchange it as auspicious gifts.

[MysteRy]

Durga Puja Songs

The festival of Durga Puja celebrates the greatness of Goddess Durga, the deity of power. On the occasion, the Bengalis of India and elsewhere worship Goddess Durga for courage, strength and wisdom. The atmosphere at the puja pandal is entirely religious, with the chanting of mantras and singing of songs. Bhajans are sung by both devotees and the traditional singers, at the puja pandals. Let it be a film song or an album, people ensure that the songs are sung with full devotion, so that Ma Durga showers blessings on them.

Popular Durga Pooja Songs

Jai Gauri Maa

Jai Jai Jai Giriraaj Kishori Jai Maheshmukh Chadrachakori
Jai Gauri Maa Teri Jai Ho Gauri Maa
Amar Suhaagan Jai Devi Maa

Maa Maiyaa Shrigaar Teraa Laal Hai - 2
Laal Mahavar Laal Laal Mehandi
Laal Sindoor To Laal Laal Chunari
Mrugmada Kaa Tilak Tere Bhaal Hai
Darshan Karake Ye Manavaa Nihaal Hai
Wo Gauri Shrigaar Teraa Laal Hai

Man Waanchit Var Denewaali Rakhiyo Amar Suhaag Ki Laali
(jai Gauri Maa Teri Jai Ho Gauri Maa
Amar Suhaagan Jai Devi Maa) - 2


Jai Jai Maa

Jai jai maa Jai jai maa
Shatnaam pravakshyaami shrinushwa kamlaanane,
Yasya prasaad maatren durgaa preetaa bhavet sati
Om sati saadhwi bhav preetaa bhavaani bhavmochini,
Aaryaa durgaa jayaa chaadyaa trinetraa shooldhaarini
Pinaak dhaarini chitraa chandra ghantaa mahaatapaah,
Mano budhir hankaaraa chitt roopaa chitaa chitih
Sarv mantra mayi sattaa satyaanand swarupini,
Anantaa bhaavini bhavya bhavya bhavyaa sadaagati
Shaambhavi dev maataa sha chintaa ratna priyaa sadaa,
Sarv vidyaa daksh kanyaa daksh yagya vinaashini
Aparnaa nek varnaa cha paatlaa paatlaavati,
Pittambar paridhaanaa kaal manjeer ranjini
Abhay vikramaa kruraa sundari sur sundari,
Van durgaa cha maatangi matang muni poojitaa
Braamhi maaheshwari chaindri kaumaari vaishnavi tathaa,
Chaamundaa chaiv vaaraahi lakshmeeshcha purushaa kritih
Vimlotkarshini gyaana kriyaa nityaa cha buddhidaa,
Bahulaa bahul premaa sarv vaahan vaahnaa
Nishumbh shumbh hanani mahishaa sur mardini,
Madhu kaitabh hantri cha chand mund vinaashini
Sarvaasur vinaashaa cha sarv daanav ghaatini,
Sarv shaastra mayi satyaa sarvaastra dhaarini tathaa
Aneshastra hastaa cha anekaastrasya dhaarini,
Kumaari chaik kanyaa cha kaishori yuvti yatih
Apradha chaiv praudhaa cha bridhmaataa balpradaa,
Mahodari muktkeshi ghor roopaa mahaabalaa
Agni jwaalaa raudra mukhi kaal raatristapaswini,
Naaraayani bhadrakaali Vishnu maayaa jalodari
Shivdooti karaali cha anantaa parmeshwari,
Kaatyaaini cha saavitri pratykshaa bramha vaadini
Ya idang prapathen-nityang durgaa naam shataashtakam,
Naasaadhyang vidyate devi trishu lokeshu paarvati!

[MysteRy]

Durga Stuti

Durga Puja is celebrated with religious observance by the Bengalis all over the world. In India, the eastern state of West Bengal is the main location for the celebration of Durga Puja, as it is the main festival for the Bengalis. The idol of Ma Durga is brought to puja pandal, where a series of rituals are carried out as a part of the worship of the deity. At that time, chanting Shri Durga stuti is customary among the devotees. It is believed that by singing Durga stuti, the Goddess is pleased in the most convincing way.

Shri Durga Stuti

Miti Ka Tan Huaa Pavitra, Ganga Ke Asnan Se,
Ant Karan Ho Jaye Pavitra, Jagadambe Ke Dhyan Se

Sarve Mangal Mangalye, Shive Sarvarth Sadhike
Sharanye Trambake Gauri, Narayani Namo Stute.

Shakti Shakti Do Mujhe, Karoon Tumhara Dhyan,
Path Nirvignya Ho Tera, Mera Ho Kalyan.

Hridya Sinhasan Par Aa, Betho Meri Maa,
Suno Vinay Mam Din Ki, Jag Janani Vardan.

Sundar Deepak Ghee Bhara, Karoon Aaj Tayaar,
Gyan Ujala Maa Karo, Metto Moh Andhkaar.

Chandra Surya Ki Roshni, Chamke Chaman Akhand,
Sab Mein Vyapak Tej Hai, Jwala Ka Prachand.

Jwala Jag Janani Meri, Raksha Karo Humesh,
Dur Karo Maa Ambike, Mere Sabhi Kalesh.

Shradha Aur Vishwas Se, Teri Jyot Jalaoon,
Tera Hi Hai Aashra, Tere Hi Gun Gaoon.

Teri Adhabhut Gaat Ko, Padhoon Mein Nischay Dhar,
Sakshat Darshan Karoon, Tere Jagat Aadhar.

Man Chanchal Se Baat Ke, Samay Jo Aogun Hoye,
Dati Apni Daya Se, Dhyan Na Dena Koye.

Main Anjan Malin Man, Na Jano Koi Rit,
At Pat Vani Ko Hi Maa, Samjho Meri Prit.

Chaman Ke Aogun Bahot Hai, Karna Nahi Dhyan,
Sinhvahini Maa Ambike, Karo Mera Kalyan.

Dhanya Dhanya Maa Ambike, Shakti Shiva Vishal,
Angh Angh Mein Rum Rahi, Dati Din Dayal

[MysteRy]

Durga Puja Traditions

Durga Puja is one of the most popular Hindu festivals in India. It is a ten days long celebration in which the Hindu goddess of power, Durga or Shakti is worshipped in nine different forms. Though this festival is celebrated throughout the country, it is immensely popular in the northern belt of the country in the state of West Bengal, Orissa, Bihar and Tripura. The concept of the nine day grand celebration began from the rich and famous circle of West Bengal from the 16th century and has now taken the form of community celebrations. Though the traditions and rituals have remained more or less the same, simply the celebrations have become more cosmopolitan in nature.

Durga Puja is also known as Navratra or Durgostab. It is a ten days affair in which last six days are the days of actual celebrations with elaborate rituals and intricate ceremonies as well as social get together. The Pooja begins from the very first day when the ‘Kalash’ is installed in a home. The person who takes the charge of the Pooja fasts for nine days. The intricate Pooja ceremony begins from the day of Mahalaya when the Goddess is invoked. The real celebrations also begin from this day onwards.

From the sixth day or Shashthi, the procedure of Pushpanjali (offering flowers) in the morning, and the aarti and bhog (offering food) three times a day becomes mandatory. There are also nine different kinds of flowers as well as bhog (food items) prescribed for the Pooja. Also there are different kinds of special ceremonies on Maha Saptami, Maha Ashtami, Maha Nabami. In the wee hours of 'Saptami,' the 'Pran' or life of the Devi is said to have been brought from a nearby pond or river in a banana tree and established inside the image.

'Sandhikshan,' the crossover time between Ashtami and Navami is also an important ceremony when rows of earthen lamps are lightened throughout the night. In many homes, it is considered auspicious to offer food to nine virgin girls on the occasion of Maha Nabami. On the last day i.e. Vijayadashami, the Goddess is worshipped in the morning and in late after noon a processions of devotees along with the idol is taken throughout the city. The idol is then immersed into the sacred water and the Goddess is believed to have left for her universal abode.

The traditions of Pooja differ from state to state. In Gujarat the Navratra is accompanied by Garba and Dandia while in Bengal the drum-beats are an integral part of the Durga Puja. A special kind of the drum, known as 'Dhak,' mesmerizes the hearts of the people of Kolkata with its majestic rhythm right from the day of 'Sasthi.' This drum is held on the shoulder with the beating side in the bottom. It is beaten with two sticks, one thick and another thin and produces an exciting sound. The aarti in Kolkata accompanied by the Dhak is simply mesmerizing.

[MysteRy]

Dussehra Celebrations

Dussehra is the culmination of Navaratis in India. Popularly known as Vijayadashmi, Dussehra is celebrated with great enthusiasm, all over India. It is observed differently in different parts of the country, depending upon the legend that is followed in each region. In North India, Ramlila forms the highlight of Dusshera, while in south India, it is the triumph of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura that is celebrated. Eastern state of West Bengal has its own story connected to the festival, while in Mysore the concept of Shami tree is centered. Learn about the celebrations of Dussehra in different parts of India, by going through the following lines.

Dusshera Celebrations In India

In North India
Ramlila is the backbone of the celebration of Dusshera in northern India, where the scenes from Rama's life are depicted, especially Bharat Milap, the reunion of Rama with his brother Bharat, the destruction of Ravana (the highlight of Dussehra) and the return of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita to Ayodhya, their kingdom after fourteen years of exile. In Himachal Pradesh's Kulu valley, the very ceremonial festivities and grand processions of the village deities of the hill people marks Dussehra.

In Delhi and nearby states, oversized effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran are burnt in Ramlila, a mela that is organized by different committees, at huge grounds. It is a week long affair in the hill town of Kullu, in Himachal Pradesh. Deities are brought in process to 'maidan' in Kullu, to pay respect to the reigning deity of the place - Raghunathji. The huge procession consists of more than hundred deities that are mounted on the colorful palanquins. Ramlila is the next major attraction of Kullu Dusshera.

In South India
In Tamil Nadu, the nine days preceding Dussehra have been equally divided for worshipping the three Goddesses namely Lakshmi (the first three days are dedicated to the Goddess of wealth and prosperity), Saraswati (the next three days are dedicated to the Goddess of learning and arts) and Durga (the last three days are dedicated to Mother Goddess, Shakti). The women and children of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka arrange small statues and dolls, known as 'Bommai Kolu', on artificial steps and decorate the steps and the nearby place with beautiful lamps and flowers.

From the very first day of the festival, songs and stories form a part of the celebration and a dish made out of chickpeas known as 'choondal' is made for the dolls as prasad to relish on. Vijayadashmi is the day when the Bommai Kolu is taken down ceremoniously. On the day of Vijayadashami, vidya aarambh (vidyaarambam) is observed. The day is considered very auspicious, especially for the children to begin their education in academics as well as art. Saraswati puja is done on Vijayadashami. A similar tradition can be seen in Kerala as well.

Mysore is famous for a gala procession of richly bedecked elephants on the brightly lit streets of the city on Dussehra. In Mysore, effigies of Ravana, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran are burnt. The Mysore palace is illuminated for a whole month during the festive season of Dussehra. Caparisoned elephants lead a colorful procession through the vibrantly decorated streets of the princely city. In Andhra Pradesh, Dussehra is popularly referred to as Dasara.

In East India
In the eastern state of West Bengal, Vijayadashmi is celebrated as the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura, the demon who ruled the swarglok and the earth with his invincible power. It is the last day of the ten-day festival - Durga Puja. On Vijayadashmi, the idol of Ma Durga is immersed in the nearby river or lake ceremoniously, by the devotees. This is called visarjan (submersion of diety). The idol is preceded by a huge procession of devotees. In Orissa, the festival is called Vijoya Dashami. The day is considered the last day of the Sharodiya Durga Puja. After offering the last ritual (Aparajita Puja) to the Goddess, a tearful farewell is bid to her. The immersion of diety is known as 'Bisarjan Jatra'. After immersing the idol, people in Orissa celebrate 'Ravan Podi', wherein the effigies of demon Ravana are burnt.

In West India
In Maharashtra, Dussehra is celebrated on the tenth day of the Ashwin month, as per the Shaka Hindu Calendar. On the last day of Navratri, that is Dussehra, the idols installed on the first day of Navratri are immersed in water. Dussehra marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. People celebrate the occasion with fun and fervor. They visit their friends and relatives and exchange sweets. Aapta tree is worshipped on this day. Exchange of leaves of aapta tree is considered auspicious. The legend of Shami tree, under which the Pandavas of Mahabharata stored their weapons during their 12 years of exile, is associated with the celebrations. As per the legend, the weapons were retrieved by them on this day. Dussehra is considered auspicious to start any new venture, according to the Maharashtrians.

[MysteRy]

Dussehra Legends

Dussehra is celebrated with great fanfare in India. It is the culmination of Navaratri, observed for nine days. The tenth day of the festival is known as Dussehra or Vijayadashmi. Ramlila is the main event conducted during the day, in northern parts of the country. In the eastern state of West Bengal, Vijayadashmi is observed as the day of 'visarjan' (submersion) of the idols of Goddess Durga, after the celebrations of Durga Puja in the preceding nine days. A number of legends are connected to Dusshera, which commemorates the triumph of good over the evil. Go through the following lines to know about the legends of Dussehra.

Legends Of Dusshera
Dussehra is mainly associated with the story of Rama based on Ramayana, one of the two great Indian epics. Set around 1000 BCE in India, this epic attempts to establish the social ideals and explains the depth of human relationships. Lord Rama was the protagonist of the epic, while his wife Sita was its female lead. He has been idolized as the ideal son, husband and king, while she is the epitome of womanhood. Lord Rama was the eldest son of Dashratha, the king of Ayodhya and was beloved of all, because of his genial ways. The king decided to hand over his throne to him and retire.

Contrary to her husband's decision, Lord Rama's stepmother (Kaikayi) wanted her own son Bharata to be the king and forced Dashratha to banish Rama from Ayodhya, the kingdom and give him fourteen years of exile. Rama gladly accepted the stepmother's wishes and left the palace and the kingdom with his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana. The grief-stricken father soon died. When Bharata, who was on a visit to his maternal grandfather, came back and came to know what his mother had done, he immediately set out to being his brother back from the forest.

Rama was glad to welcome his brother Bharata, but he refused to go back to the kingdom before the completion of his exile. Rama had another loss at hand, as the demon-king Ravana, abducted his wife Sita and took her away to his kingdom. This became the reason behind the long search and the various events that followed, which led to the destruction of Ravana by the hands of Lord Rama, with the help of the monkey army he had befriended on his way to Lanka. Dussehra is the day, when Rama killed Ravana and won back his wife. Hence, Dusshera is also called Vijayadashmi.

Dussehra celebrates the victory of good (Rama) over the evil (Ravana). This is the reason why effigies of Ravana, Meghnatha and Kumbhkarna are burnt on Dusshera, all over northern India. Apart from this, Vijayadashmi also symbolizes the victory of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura, the demon who held the earth and the swarglok (heaven) with his tyranny and invincible power. Hence, it can be said that two legends are connected to the celebration of Dussehra in India.

[MysteRy]

Significance of Dussehra

Dussehra is one of the major Hindu festivals of India. It is celebrated throughout the country with great zeal and enthusiasm. People all over the country participate in the occasion in their own way. It is the day when Lord Rama killed the ten headed demon king Ravana and gave the throne of his kingdom Lanka to his brother Vibhishana. Since that day, the day of Vijaya Dashmi is considered to be auspicious and festive by the people of India and is celebrated as the day that symbolizes the victory of ‘Good over Evil’.

People throughout the country celebrate the occasion in their own way. The Dusshera of Mysore is very famous in terms of grandeur and splendor. Each region of the country has its own specialty in the celebrations. While at some places people engage in public processions, at some places people participate in Ram Lila and some people organize Ravan Dahan in the city. Feasting and busting crackers are also an important feature of the Dusshera celebrations. At many places in the country, colorful fairs and exhibitions are also organized on this occasion.

In most of the places in the country right from ten days before Dussehra, the whole Ramayana is enacted in various parts of India. The occasion is also celebrated in many countries where people of Hindu faith are residing in a very similar manner to that of India. It is on the tenth day that people come out in processions and chant the greatness of Lord Rama and enact the whole Rama-Ravana war on the streets. It is said that this is a way to remind people of the fact that truth always triumphs and motivate them to follow the path of ‘dharma’.

Dussehra symbolizes the conquest of good over evil. It is thus considered as an auspicious day. Even today after burning the effigy of Ravana along with his subordinates Meghanad and Kumbhkarana on the Dusshera celebrations, we simply symbolize the power of goodness and humanity is above all kind of powers. As Lord Rama fought a battle of ten days with Ravana, who had abducted his wife Sita, the day of his victory is called ‘Vijaya Dashmi’, the tenth day of Victory. It is said that this day symbolizes not as the victory of Ram but also the victory of ‘mankind’. That is why this day is held in high regard by people who believe that whenever there will be chaos in the society and evil will try to take over humanity, God will appear in a the form of savior to protect his devotees.

[MysteRy]

Dussehra Date

The festival of Dussehra, which marks the triumph of victory of good over the evil, is celebrated on the tenth day of the bright half (waxing moon) of the Hindu month of Aswiyuja. The festivities of Dussehra also mark the commencement of the winter season after a long, scorching summer. The occasion commemorates the victory of Rama over Ravana as well as the triumph of Goddess Durga over demon Mahishasura. Fairs, known as Ramlila, are organized on many parts of the occasion. It is the culmination of the nine-day celebrations of Navratri, which precedes Dussehra.

Dussehra is a very auspicious day to start a new venture, learn art forms (such as music and dance) or pursue education. This is largely because in many parts of India, particularly in southern states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, Vidyarambam (beginning of study) is performed on Vijayadashmi (Dusshera). In addition to this, a number of rituals are performed on this day, such as, the exchange of shami leaves and apati leaves. Apart from this, Goddess Durga's idols are immersed into the nearby river or lake by the Bengalis, who celebrate Dussehra for the Goddess's victory over demon Mahishasura.

Ramlila is the main attraction of Dussehra in many parts of India, the most prominent being Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Mysore and Orissa. Though effigies of Ravana, his son Meghnath and brother Kumbhkarna are not burnt in the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, the festival is celebrated with equal zeal there. Saraswati Puja is the main ritual of Vijayadashmi (Dussehra) in the southern states of India. During the entire day of Dusshera, the air is filled with festivity and people are in the mood to enjoy the festival along with their family, friends and relatives.

Dussehra 2012: 24th October.

[MysteRy]

History of Dussehra

One of the popular Hindu festivals, Dussehra is celebrated with pomp and gaiety. Since ages, a number of rituals are performed to please the Almighty, on the ceremonious occasion. It is the climax of the nine-day long celebrations of 'Navratris', which precede it. The festival commemorates the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. Apart from the legend from the epic Ramayana, and the story of the triumph of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura, a vibrant history is associated with the festival. In this article, we have provided interesting information on the history of Dussehra.

History & Origin Of Dusshera

Triumph Of Lord Rama Over Ravana
The celebration of Dussehra is rooted in the Hindu epic of Ramayana, according to which, Lord Rama, the eight incarnation of Lord Vishnu, killed the ten-headed demon Ravana, in Satyug. Ravan had abducted Rama's wife Sita. Rama, along with his brother Lakshmana, follower Hanuman and an army of monkeys, headed towards Lanka (Ravana's Kingdom) in order to enter a war with Ravana and rescue Sita. On his way to Lanka, Rama organized Chandi Pooja to seek the blessings of Ma Durga, the Goddess of power and courage. After seeking her blessings, Lord Rama defeated and killed Ravana, with the help of his fellow beings. Therefore, the day was celebrated to commemorate the victory of Rama over Ravana, which later came to be known as Vijayadashmi or Dussehra.

Assassination Of Mahishasura By Goddess Durga
Another legend is connected to Goddess Durga. According to the story, all the Gods in swarglok and the living beings on earth were upset by the tyranny of the demon Mahishasura, because he had acquired invincible power to conquer the world. He was undefeatable, even by the mighty deities - Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. Therefore, all the Gods decided to create a power, which would destroy Mahishasura, freed the living beings from his despotism and restore the swaglok to them. This gave rise to the creation of Goddess Durga, an avatar of Ma Shakti. With the weapons given to her by the Gods, Goddess Durga went to fight against Mahishasura. She defeated the demon, successfully, and restored the swaglok to the Gods, as promised. Her victory is celebrated as Vijayadashmi or Dusshera, by many people following Hinduism.

Rain Of Gold Coins
According to a story, Kautsa, the young son of Devdatta (a Brahmin), was residing in the city of Paithan. After pursuing his education under the guidance of Rishi Varatantu, he wanted to offer a dakshina to his Guru. Although the guru refused initially, he later asked for 140 million gold coins. The student approached King Raghu for the coins, because he was renowned for his generosity. Within three days of the student's request, King Raghu asked the God of Wealth - Kuber - to create a rain of gold coins near the apati and shanu trees. After presenting the promised gold coins to his guru, Kautsa distributed the rest of the coins to the needy, on the day of Dussehra. Since then, people loot the leaves of apati trees and present to each other as a symbol of gold, on Dussehra.

Shami Tree
Another legend connected to the origin of Dusshera finds place in the greatest Hindu epic - Mahabharata. According to a story, Pandavas where banished by Kauravas for 12 years and 1 year of disguise, because the former were defeated in gambling (chausar) by the latter. Subsequently, Pandavas decided to spend their first 12 years of exile in the woods and the last year in disguise. Since they were asked to remain incognito during that period, Pandavas did not want to be exposed to others. Therefore, they lay aside their divine and powerful weapons during the exile. They concealed their weapons under the shami tree, situated close to the place of their residence. At the end of every year of the exile, Pandavas came to the shami tree to check whether their weapons were there.

Whenever Pandavas approached the tree, they worshipped it and Goddess Durga, the presiding deity. In the mean time, Kauravas were making every attempt to trace Pandavas, so that they could extend the exile time, because it was said that if they were found, they would have to spend another 12 years in the woods. However, the Kauravas could find the Pandavas only past the stipulated time. Subsequently, the Pandavas went to the shami tree, fetched their concealed weapons and went straight to the battle field to fight the Kauravas. Pandavas emerged victorious. The event took place in dasami and since good had achieved victory over the evil, it came to be known as Vijayadashmi. Since then, people hug each other under the shami tree and exchange its leaves.