Dasehra

American  

[duhs-er-uh] / ˈdʌs ər ə /

Also Dasahara

noun

1. a Hindu festival symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, celebrated for ten days in October.

---

Usage

What is Dasehra? Dasehra (or Dasahara or Dussehra) is a Hindu holiday marking the end of the festival known as Navaratri. Dasehra is also sometimes called Vijayadashami. Dasehra is a celebration of the triumph of good over evil. It is observed on the day after the ninth day of Navaratri and is sometimes considered part of the Navaratri festival (as its 10th day). The name Dasehra is also sometimes used to refer to this entire 10-day period. Observance of Navaratri varies by region. In some regions, it is dedicated to all female deities. In some places, it specifically commemorates the slaying of a demon by the goddess Durga, while in others it celebrates Rama’s victory over Ravana—two examples of the triumph of good over evil celebrated on Dasehra. When Navaratri (or a portion of the festival) is primarily observed in honor of Durga, it is also called Durga Puja (which means “Durga worship”). Because it overlaps with Navaratri, the names are sometimes used synonymously. This is why you’ll sometimes see the terms Navaratri, Dasehra, and Durga Puja used interchangeably, even though each one can mean something more specific.

Etymology

Origin of Dasehra

From the Sanskrit word daśaharā literally, (goddess) who takes away the ten major sins