Happy Dussehra! 

Goddess Durga is worshiped twice a year: Chaitra Navratri in spring and Sharad Navratri in autumn, each aligned with seasonal changes and important mythological events. Chaitra Navratri, in March-April, celebrates the arrival of spring and the birth of Lord Ram (Ram Navami), symbolizing auspicious beginnings. Sharad Navratri, in September-October, commemorates Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura, representing the triumph of good over evil. This festival culminates in Vijayadashami (Dussehra), a celebration of righteousness and inner reflection.

Though Dussehra marks Lord Rama’s victory over the ten-headed demon king Ravana and the end of Navratri and Durga Puja, it is also a symbolic reminder to conquer our own inner demons. It’s not just an ending—it’s a new beginning. In our fast-paced lives, we often overlook the stress and burdens we carry from internal conflicts. Festivals like this encourage us to pause, reflect, and realign with our true selves.

The ten heads of Ravana symbolize the complexities of human nature, traits that, if uncontrolled, can lead us astray:

• Kama (Lust) – Uncontrolled desire

• Krodha (Anger) – Destructive rage

• Moha (Delusion) – Attachment to illusions

• Lobha (Greed) – Insatiable craving

• Mada (Pride) – Ego and arrogance

• Matsarya (Envy) – Jealousy of others

• Manas (Mind) – Restless thoughts

• Buddhi (Intellect) – Misused intelligence

• Chitta (Will) – Misguided determination

• Ahamkara (Ego) – False sense of self

Ravana was a brilliant scholar and powerful king, yet his inability to control these traits led to his downfall. The ritual of burning his effigy on Vijayadashami is a reminder for us to overcome our inner flaws and strive for virtue.

Dussehra is not just about fireworks and effigies, it’s about illuminating the shadows within. Let’s confront the fears, doubts, and insecurities that hold us back—the fear of missing out, the fear of being seen, or not being seen. Let’s shed the layers that prevent us from fully loving ourselves.

Because when we honor our own growth and self-belief, everything else falls into place. Recognition, success, and appreciation follow—not the other way around.

This Dussehra, don’t just celebrate Rama’s victory over Ravana—celebrate your own victories over the voices that say “you’re not enough.” Let go, stop chasing, and trust the flow of life. What’s truly meant for you will stand the test of time. And if it doesn’t, it was never yours to begin with.

Wishing you a victorious, joyful, and introspective Dussehra!