Arshid Rasool
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of India’s most significant festivals, symbolising the victory of good over evil, truth over falsehood and justice over injustice. Celebrated across the country, it conveys a timeless message of courage, hope, righteousness and unity. In Kashmir, a region known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions, Dussehra provides an opportunity to appreciate the values that unite people beyond geographical, linguistic and religious differences. Its message remains relevant today, reminding society that truth and righteousness ultimately prevail over arrogance, hatred and wrongdoing.
The festival is associated with two important stories from Indian tradition. According to the Ramayana, Dussehra marks Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana, symbolising the triumph of duty, devotion and justice over pride and evil. It also commemorates Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura, representing the power of righteousness over destructive forces. These stories, passed down through generations through religious texts, theatre, music and storytelling, continue to inspire people to embrace honesty, compassion, discipline and responsible conduct.
In Kashmir, Dussehra holds particular religious and cultural significance for Hindu families, including Kashmiri Pandits, who preserve their traditions through prayers, family gatherings and cultural activities. For many Kashmiri Pandit families living outside the Valley, the festival is also an occasion to reconnect with their ancestral roots and pass their cultural heritage to younger generations. Their continued observance of traditional festivals reflects the enduring strength of cultural identity and the importance of preserving Jammu and Kashmir’s diverse historical legacy.
Across India, Dussehra is celebrated through Ramlila performances, religious gatherings, fairs and the symbolic burning of effigies of Ravana, Meghnada and Kumbhakarna. In Kashmir, celebrations are generally organised according to local traditions and community arrangements. For families living away from their homeland, these occasions provide opportunities to come together, share memories and keep their traditions alive. Such celebrations demonstrate that cultural heritage can remain strong despite geographical separation and changing social circumstances.
One of Dussehra’s most important messages is unity in diversity. Kashmir’s social fabric has been shaped by the contributions of Kashmiri Pandits, Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists and other communities. Although religious customs differ, values such as kindness, honesty, dignity and peaceful coexistence are universal. Respecting one another’s festivals, appreciating different traditions and encouraging meaningful cultural exchanges can strengthen mutual trust and community relationships. True harmony does not require people to share identical beliefs; it grows when differences are respected and common humanity is recognised.
The festival also offers valuable lessons for the younger generation. Schools, colleges and community organisations can organise cultural programmes, storytelling sessions and discussions on the Ramayana to highlight the importance of truthfulness, respect for women, ethical leadership and standing against injustice. Dussehra further reminds people that knowledge and power lose their value when accompanied by arrogance and misuse. Its message can be reflected in everyday actions, including supporting education, helping vulnerable people, protecting the environment and rejecting hatred and discrimination.
Dussehra can also contribute to cultural awareness and responsible tourism in Kashmir. By presenting the region’s diverse traditions, hospitality and heritage, appropriate cultural activities can encourage visitors to understand its social richness while creating opportunities for local artisans and businesses. Such initiatives should respect local customs and religious sentiments while ensuring that cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
Ultimately, Dussehra is more than a celebration of a legendary victory, it is a reminder to overcome negativity within ourselves and practise truth, justice, compassion and responsibility in daily life. In Kashmir, where diverse traditions form an important part of the region’s identity, its message of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence carries special significance. By preserving cultural heritage, encouraging dialogue and strengthening bonds among communities, the spirit of Vijayadashami can help build a more harmonious and progressive society. The true victory of good over evil lies not merely in the burning of Ravana’s effigy, but in defeating arrogance, hatred and prejudice within ourselves.
