Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, celebrates Lord Rama's victory over 10-headed demon king Ravana, signifying the triumph of good over evil. This year, the festival was celebrated across India on October 12 with revelers coming out in huge numbers to witness the burning of effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghnad, marking a spectacular culmination of 10-day festivities filled with rituals, songs, dance, and processions.
Ram Leela -- a theatrical performance based on Lord Ram's life -- was also performed in cities, towns, and villages, with actors dressing up as characters from the Ramayana and enacting scenes from the Hindu epic. Here are some glimpses of the Dussehra celebration...
Demon king Ravana's effigy goes up in flames at Red Fort Parade Ground in Delhi. (Photo courtesy: X@narendramodi)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu participated in Vijaya Dashami celebrations at Red Fort in Delhi. The two leaders were also seen symbolically performing Raavan Dahan - burning effigy of the demon king - by shooting an arrow from a bow. Sharing his thoughts, PM Modi wrote: "Our capital is known for its wonderful Ramlila traditions. They are vibrant celebrations of faith, culture and traditions". (Photo courtesy: X@narendramodi)
Ram Leela, a traditional dramatic performance of the Hindu epic Ramayana, in progress in Delhi's Mayur Vihar and Vikas Puri areas. (Photos courtesy: Arvind Kejriwal/Facebook, Sunil Jindal/Facebook)
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi applying 'Vijay Tilak' (victory mark) on Lord Hanuman's forehead on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, in New Delhi. (Photo courtesy: X@INCIndia)
Actors Ajay Devgn, Kareena Kapoor-Khan and filmmaker Rohit Shetty take part in Dussehra celebrations in the national capital. (Photo courtesy: X@RelianceEnt)
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh performing the age-old tradition of 'Shastra Puja', which involves worshipping weapons, on Dussehra. The weapon worship was done at Sukna in Darjeeling. (Photo: X@rajnathsingh)
