Durga Puja celebrates the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon king Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of virtue over vice. Nine days are dedicated to worshipping the nine distinct forms of Goddess Durga, also known as the Navadurga. These forms include Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidhatri. This annual festival, particularly the Shardiya Navratri, celebrates the triumph of good over evil and involves fasting, prayer, and festive rituals to seek blessings for strength, wisdom, prosperity, and spiritual growth. The 10th day of the Hindu festival of Navratri, which includes Durga Puja, is celebrated as Dussehra or Vijayadashami. Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Falling on the tenth day of Navratri, Dussehra marks the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana. In 2025, Dussehra will be celebrated on Thursday, October 2, 2025. The festival takes place in September or October and lasts for ten days. People worship beautifully decorated idols of Goddess Durga in pandals, wear new clothes, and enjoy cultural programs and tasty food. During Durga Puja, people create beautiful decorations and lights. Families indulge in delicious treats and spend quality time together.
