Bijaya Dashami 2026: Significance, History, Traditions and the Victory of Good Over Evil
By UtkalPress News Desk
Bijaya Dashami, also known as Vijayadashami or Dussehra, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals celebrated across India. The festival symbolises the victory of good over evil, truth over falsehood, and righteousness over injustice. In Odisha and other eastern Indian states, the occasion marks the conclusion of the grand Durga Puja celebrations and honours the divine victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.
Historical and Religious Significance
According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Durga fought a fierce battle against Mahishasura, who had become a threat to the gods and humanity. After a prolonged struggle, the goddess defeated the demon and restored peace and righteousness. Her victory represents the power of truth, courage, justice and divine strength.
Another important legend associated with Dussehra comes from the Ramayana. Lord Rama defeated the ten-headed demon king Ravana to rescue Goddess Sita and restore dharma. This victory is commemorated in many parts of India through Ramlila performances and the symbolic burning of Ravana's effigies.
Bijaya Dashami Celebrations in Odisha
In Odisha, Bijaya Dashami holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. Beautifully decorated Durga Puja pandals, traditional rituals, devotional music and colourful decorations create a festive atmosphere. Cities such as Cuttack are particularly renowned for their elaborate Durga Puja decorations and artistic silver filigree backdrops.
On Dashami, devotees offer prayers to Goddess Durga and seek blessings for happiness, prosperity, good health and protection. The goddess is ceremonially bid farewell before the immersion of her idol in a river or other designated water body. The farewell is both emotional and celebratory, as devotees pray for her return the following year.
Traditions, Customs and Family Gatherings
Bijaya Dashami is also a time for strengthening family bonds and social harmony. People exchange greetings, visit relatives and friends, distribute sweets and seek blessings from elders. Cultural programmes and community celebrations bring people from different backgrounds together.
Although customs differ across regions, the central message remains the same: goodness, compassion and truth ultimately triumph over evil and injustice.
The Message of Bijaya Dashami
Beyond its religious significance, Bijaya Dashami encourages people to overcome inner weaknesses such as anger, greed, jealousy and arrogance. It reminds society to uphold honesty, respect others, support the vulnerable and work towards peace and unity.
As devotees celebrate Bijaya Dashami 2026, the festival offers an opportunity to renew commitments to kindness, integrity and social responsibility.
Happy Bijaya Dashami! May Goddess Durga bless everyone with peace, prosperity, happiness and success. May the spirit of this auspicious occasion inspire a brighter future for Odisha and the entire nation.
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