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Vijayadashami/ Dussehra: Celebrating the Victory of Good Over Evil

Vijayadashami, also known as Dussehra, is a significant Hindu festival that symbolizes the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated with great fervor across India and marks the culmination of two intertwined stories – the tale of Lord Rama’s triumph over the demon king Ravana and the story of Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. Together, these stories remind us of the eternal struggle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of righteousness.

The Story of Lord Rama and Ravana

At the heart of Dussehra is the ancient story of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, who embarks on a quest to rescue his wife, Sita, from the demon king Ravana. Ravana, the ten-headed ruler of Lanka, kidnaps Sita, leading to an epic battle between the forces of good, led by Lord Rama, and the forces of evil, led by Ravana.

Rama is not alone in his quest. His loyal brother Lakshman and the devoted Hanuman, along with an army of monkeys, join him in the battle to defeat Ravana. After a fierce struggle, Rama finally confronts Ravana in the climactic battle of the Ramayana. With his divine bow and arrow, Rama strikes Ravana down, killing him and rescuing Sita. The defeat of Ravana symbolizes the victory of dharma (righteousness) over adharma (unrighteousness).

The burning of Ravana’s effigy, known as Ravana Dahan, is one of the most prominent rituals of Dussehra. It serves as a reminder that no matter how powerful evil may appear, it will always be vanquished by truth and justice.

The Story of Goddess Durga and Mahishasura

While Lord Rama’s story is central to Dussehra, the festival also celebrates another powerful victory of good over evil – the story of Goddess Durga. According to Hindu mythology, Mahishasura, a shape-shifting demon who could take the form of a buffalo, terrorized the heavens and the earth. He was granted a boon by Lord Brahma that made him nearly invincible, with the condition that only a woman could defeat him.

Mahishasura grew arrogant, believing that no woman could ever challenge him. He wreaked havoc on the universe, forcing the gods to seek help. In response, the gods combined their powers to create Goddess Durga, the fierce embodiment of divine feminine energy (Shakti). Armed with weapons gifted by the gods, Durga engaged in a fierce battle with Mahishasura that lasted for nine days and nights.

On the tenth day, known as Vijayadashami, Goddess Durga finally vanquished Mahishasura, freeing the world from his tyranny. This victory symbolizes the power of Shakti, or feminine energy, and the triumph of good over evil forces that try to disrupt cosmic harmony.

During the festival of Navratri, which leads up to Vijayadashami, devotees worship the nine forms of Durga, celebrating her strength, wisdom, and compassion. On the final day, Vijayadashami, her victory over Mahishasura is commemorated with great enthusiasm, particularly in eastern India, where large statues of the goddess are immersed in water (Durga Visarjan) as part of the celebrations.

Click to view this 74″ Traditional Durga Puja Statue

Significance of Dussehra and Vijayadashami

Both the stories of Lord Rama and Goddess Durga serve as powerful metaphors for the battles we face in our lives. Dussehra reminds us that good will always prevail, even in the face of great adversity. The festival’s message is universal – it speaks of courage, righteousness, and the importance of standing up against injustice and evil.

Cultural and Spiritual Unity:
Dussehra and Vijayadashami bring people together, celebrating the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India. The rituals, processions, and reenactments of the stories create a sense of unity among communities. Whether it’s through the grand effigies of Ravana being burnt or the immersion of Goddess Durga’s idols, the festival fosters a sense of shared belief in the triumph of good over evil.

Victory of Dharma Over Adharma:
Both stories highlight the importance of living a life guided by dharma (righteousness) and upholding moral principles. Lord Rama’s unwavering commitment to dharma, despite the challenges he faces, and Goddess Durga’s fierce determination to restore balance and defeat evil, remind us to stay true to our values.

Inner Battles and Personal Growth:
Dussehra is not just about external battles but also symbolizes the internal struggle between good and evil within us. Just as Lord Rama fought Ravana and Goddess Durga battled Mahishasura, we too must confront the negative emotions and vices within us, such as anger, greed, and pride. The victory of good over evil in these stories serves as an inspiration for self-reflection and personal growth.

Rituals and Celebrations

Dussehra and Vijayadashami are marked by a variety of vibrant rituals and traditions across India, each region celebrating in its own unique way. Here are some of the key rituals:

Ramleela Performances:
In many regions, the story of Lord Rama’s battle with Ravana is performed through Ramleela, a dramatic reenactment of the Ramayana. These performances captivate audiences, reminding them of the values of truth, honor, and courage.

Ravana Dahan:
In many parts of India, enormous effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhkaran, and his son Meghnath are set on fire. This ritual symbolizes the destruction of evil forces and is often accompanied by fireworks and celebrations.

Durga Puja and Visarjan:
In eastern India, especially in West Bengal, Durga Puja is a major celebration. Devotees build beautiful pandals (temporary structures) to house the idols of Goddess Durga. After days of worship, these idols are taken in grand processions to rivers or the sea for immersion, marking the end of the festival.

Navratri Celebrations:
Across India, Navratri is celebrated with great enthusiasm leading up to Vijayadashami. Each day of the nine-night festival is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, and people participate in traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya, especially in Gujarat.

Conclusion

Vijayadashami and Dussehra are more than just festivals—they are a reminder that good will always triumph over evil, both in the world and within ourselves. The stories of Lord Rama and Goddess Durga serve as timeless lessons, guiding us to lead lives rooted in righteousness, courage, and compassion.

As we burn the effigies of Ravana and celebrate the victory of Goddess Durga, we are reminded to confront the evils we face in our own lives—be they external challenges or internal struggles. The festival encourages us to strive for balance, uphold truth, and believe in the power of good to overcome even the darkest forces.

Let us carry the spirit of Vijayadashami with us throughout the year, drawing inspiration from these ancient tales as we navigate the challenges of modern life, always remembering that good will ultimately prevail.

How to Perform Navratri Durga Puja?

For Hindus, Navratri is considered a vibrant as well as auspicious festival of nine days that is dedicated to worshiping the nine avatars or forms of the goddess Durga with great enthusiasm and devotion. During these sacred nine days, devotees commonly engage in activities like fasting, prayers, as well as various other rituals to seek blessings, strength, and prosperity from goddess Durga. Nevertheless, performing a Navratri puja at your home is not just a religious activity, as it is also considered as one of the best ways to feel more connected with your cultural roots, even if you’re living away from your hometown, like in the USA, Canada, etc.

Thus, whether it’s your first time performing the Navratri puja or you have been practicing it for years, here in this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of how to perform this puja in the comfort of your home without missing any of the traditions.

What is Navratri?

In Hindi, Navratri means ‘nine nights’ which is one of the many auspicious festivals celebrated across India to worship the nine forms or avatars of goddess Durga in order to seek her blessings. According to the Hindu calendar, the Navratri comes two times in a year, once in the Chaitra month to celebrate the Hindu new year and the other in the Ashwin month to celebrate Dussehra, which signifies the winning of Lord Rama against Ravana.

Nevertheless, each day of the Navratri is dedicated to one form of the goddess, which signifies her specific powers. Thus, Navratri is also considered as a season of spiritual cleansing as well as seeking favors or healings for health, wealth, and peace from the goddess.

Click to view this 13″ Brass Durga Statue

Guide to Perform Navratri Puja at Home

1. Preparation for Navratri Puja

It is considered as very important to prepare your mind, body, as well as home before starting the Navratri puja, as cleanliness and purity are the keys to beginning the rituals.

Clean Your Home:

Before beginning the puja, it is mandatory to thoroughly clean the area where you plan to perform the puja. This space should be free from any potential distractions in order to make you solely focus on your puja. Therefore, it is advised to create a small space or corner where you can place the idols or pictures and all the other necessary items to worship the goddess Durga without any disturbances during these nine days.

Set Up the Puja Altar:

Firstly, place the pictures of idols of goddess Durga or any of her nine forms on the altar.

Now, decorate the altar with beautiful fresh flowers, incense as per your liking and also a lamp that directly faces the direction of goddess Durga idols. You can also leave some space on the altar to offer fruits, sweets, etc. to the goddess during these days.

Now, place a small Kalash (pot) filled with water, add a few drops of Ganga Jal (Ganga water) and place a coin in it. Then, put a coconut on it and decorate the entire pot by partially inserting Ashok leaves (Saraca indica leaves) in it.

2. Sankalpa (Vow)

Once you set up your altar, then sit down with a relaxed mind on the mat to take the Sankalpa (vow or commitment). It is taken to perform the puja wholeheartedly as well as to perform fasting and other rituals with sincerity.

How to Take Sankalpa:

Face the east or north direction in the space you have created for the puja and join your hands in a prayer position.

Now, chant the mantra, “Om aim hreem kleem chamundaye vicche.” for as many times as you can.

Now, meditate on goddess Durga and express your wish to perform the puja wholeheartedly for the nine days with sincerity.

3. Invoke Goddess Durga

Whenever you’re done with the Sankalpa, then it’s time to invite the goddess Durga into your home to stay there during these nine days. This ritual begins with ghata sthapana or kalash sthapna (pot installation) in another pot, which is filled with soil and some barley seeds sprinkled on it.

Kalash Sthapana (Pot Installation):

Firstly, decorate the coconut, which you have placed upon the kalash (pot) previously, with turmeric and kumkum powder and then place it in the pot of soil.

Now, light the ghee lamp and some incense sticks to invoke the presence of goddess Durga into your home. You can also offer fresh flowers, fruits, sweets, etc. to the deity and chant the durga mantras with full concentration, like “om dum durgayei namaha….” for 108 times if possible.

4. Chanting Mantras and Reciting Durga Saptashati

Chanting the mantras of goddess Durga and reciting scriptures like Durga saptashati or Devi mahatmya are considered as a very important part of the Navratri puja in order to get the blessings of the goddess Durga. Therefore, it is highly advised that you should recite at least a few chapters every day or you can also play the recorded chants if you don’t know the verses. You can chant mantras like “Ya Devi Sarva bhuteshu…” to offer your prayers to the goddess in order to seek protection as well as blessings from her.

5. Offer Bhog (Food Offering)

It is considered as very important to offer bhog during the Navratri to the goddess Durga. You can also offer different foods on each day of the Navratri according to the specific preferences of the goddess for that particular day. For example, you can offer pure milk-based products such as kheer (rice pudding) to goddess Shailputri on day-1, sugar and fruits like apples and bananas to goddess Brahmacharini on day-2 and so on. Once you offer the food to the goddess, then you can share it with your family members as a prasad in order to share the blessings of the goddess among them too.

6. Aarti and Devotional Songs

Performing the aartis, which are often called as devotional songs, are considered as one of the most blissful parts of the Navratri puja and they are performed two times a day, usually once in the morning and once in the evening.

To perform the aarti, you should light a camphor in a vessel and move it in a circular motion in front of the deity while signing the aarti, like “ambe tu jagdambe kali, jai durge khappar vali…” which is also considered as a very popular aarti among the devotees to seek the blessings of goddess Durga.

7. Navratri Fasting

Taking a fast during the Navratri is considered as one of the most important parts of the entire festival, as it is believed to cleanse both your body as well as your soul. This practice also represents your devotion as well as self-discipline to the goddess Durga, which can be a way to enhance your spiritual connection with the divine. There are various ways in which the devotees can choose to fast, like:

Full Fast: In this practice, the devotees avoid consuming any type of food throughout the day. Some devotees may only consume water, while others allow for light liquids like coconut water or fresh fruit juices according to their likings as well as keeping their health in mind.

Partial Fast: This fasting involves eating certain foods that are often called as ‘vrat-friendly’ and don’t break your fast, like fruits, dairy products, and special grains like kuttu ka atta (buckwheat flour), singhare ka atta (water chestnut flour), or sabudana khichdi (tapioca). This practice is very common among devotees, as it makes the nine days of the fasting quite manageable without compromising on their health.

8. Kanya Pujan (Worshiping of Young Girls)

It is considered as a mandatory tradition to perform Kanya pujan, in which worship of nine young girls, usually below the age of 11-12 years, is performed. This ritual represents the nine forms or avatars of goddess Durga worshiped on the Astami (eighth day) or Navami (ninth day of the Navratri).

How to Perform Kanya Pujan:

Firstly, wash the feet of the young girls, then serve them a meal that usually contains halwa, puri, and chana. You can also give them fresh clothes or gifts as per your liking to welcome them into your home on the auspicious day.

This Kanya pujan is also considered as a symbol of worshiping the goddess Durga in her young forms, as it is believed to bring blessings of both health and prosperity into your home.

9. Visarjan (Concluding the Puja)

The Navratri puja ends with the final rituals of visarjan (immersion) of the idols of goddess Durga in the ponds or any other suitable place in order to offer her a farewell. It is also performed to thank the goddess for her blessings as well as to pray to her to return next year with the same joy and prosperity. Then, you can either water the plants with the kalash water or sprinkle it into your home in order to retain a positive vibe throughout the day.

The Navratri puja is considered as an auspicious journey of spirituality, self-discipline, as well as devotion to the goddess to show us the right path and also to seek blessings of great health and prosperity from her. Nevertheless, now you may be able to perform these rituals without any hindrances in the comfort of your home by following the above steps in order to stay connected to your cultural roots as well as to seek the blessings of goddess Durga.

Are you also looking for the best-handcrafted goddess Durga idols to enhance your Navratri puja experience? Then, visit Lotus Sculpture today to get the best-handcrafted sculptures of goddess Durga to invoke her divine presence into your home.

Navratri Rituals, Traditions & the Nine Forms of Goddess Durga

Navratri is one of the most important Hindu festivals that is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. The word “Navratri” is derived from Sanskrit and it loosely translates to – “nine nights.” This means that this festival spans nine days and during these days the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped.

Navratri holds a lot of spiritual, cultural, and social significance. It marks the victory of good over evil and celebrates the triumph of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. This festival also encourages people to reflect on inner strength, positivity, and devotion. In this blog, we will explore the rituals, traditions, and the nine forms of Goddess Durga that are celebrated with great excitement during Navratri.

Navratri Rituals & Traditions

Navratri rituals are deeply rooted in devotion and faith. They vary slightly from region to region. But all these have some common practices that are followed across the country.

Ghatasthapana (Kalash Sthapana)

Navratri begins with Ghatasthapana. This stage usually marks the start of the festival. A pot or kalash is placed at a sacred spot in the house that basically symbolizes the presence of the Goddess. The pot is then filled with water and topped with a coconut. It is then surrounded by mango leaves. This ritual basically invites Goddess Durga to reside in the home for the nine days of the festival.

Fasting

Fasting is a key part of Navratri. Many people observe a fast during all nine days. On the other hand, some people fast only on the first and last day. Fasting is believed to purify the body and mind which then further prepares the devotees for divine blessings. During the fast, foods like fruits, dairy, and special grains are consumed. Moreover, one has to avoid regular grains like wheat and rice.

Offering Prayers and Aarti

Prayers are offered to one of the nine forms of Goddess Durga on every day of Navratri. Devotees recite Durga Saptashati which is a sacred text that describes the battles of the Goddess and victories over evil. On the same note, an aarti which is a devotional song is typically sung in her honor. People also light lamps and offer flowers, sweets, and fruits to the Goddess.

Garba and Dandiya

In northern and western regions of India and especially in Gujarat a lot of people celebrate Navratri by performing traditional dances like Garba and Dandiya. These dances are performed in circles around a lamp or an idol of the Goddess. The rhythm of the music usually comes along with the dance. Thus, symbolizing the energy and vibrancy of life.

Kanya Pujan

Many families around the globe perform Kanya Pujan on the eighth or ninth day of Navratri. This is the day when young girls (representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga) are worshiped. The girls are invited to the home where their feet are washed and they are given food, gifts, and blessings. In this way, this ritual usually emphasizes the purity and power of women.

Click to view this 75″ Durga Scene Sculpture

The Nine Forms of Goddess Durga

Each day of Navratri is dedicated to a different form of Goddess Durga which is known as Navadurga. These forms represent various aspects of the divine feminine and each one has its significance in Hindu mythology.

1. Shailaputri

The first day is dedicated to Goddess Shailaputri. Goddess Shailaputri is regarded as the daughter of the mountains. She represents strength, calm, and devotion. She is often depicted riding a bull while holding a trident and a lotus.

2. Brahmacharini

On the second day, Goddess Brahmacharini is worshiped. She is the form of Goddess Durga who performed intense penance to obtain Lord Shiva as her consort. Her simple appearance symbolizes discipline, virtue, and determination.

3. Chandraghanta

The third day celebrates Goddess Chandraghanta. She wears a half-moon on her forehead which eventually translates to what the name means. She rides a tiger and represents courage and grace. She is invoked to ward off evil and bring peace and prosperity.

4. Kushmanda

Goddess Kushmanda is worshiped on the fourth day. This form is believed to have created the universe with her divine smile. She symbolizes creativity and the power to bring light to darkness.

5. Skandamata

The fifth day is dedicated to Goddess Skandamata who is also regarded as the mother of Lord Kartikeya (also known as Skanda). She is depicted holding her son in her lap and riding a lion. Skandamata is associated with nurturing, protection, and wisdom.

6. Katyayani

Goddess Katyayani is worshiped on the sixth day. She is known as the warrior goddess who destroyed the demon Mahishasura. She represents courage and the ability to overcome obstacles.

7. Kalaratri

The seventh day is dedicated to Goddess Kalaratri which is the fiercest form of Durga. She has a dark complexion and rides a donkey. She is a protector and is invoked to destroy ignorance and darkness while having a fearsome appearance.

8. Mahagauri

On the eighth day, Goddess Mahagauri is worshiped. She is fair and serene, symbolizing purity, forgiveness, and calmness. She is often depicted riding a bull and holding a trident and a drum.

9. Siddhidatri

The ninth day is dedicated to Goddess Siddhidatri who grants siddhis (spiritual powers) to her devotees. She is believed to be the one who completes the universe. Siddhidatri is depicted sitting on a lotus while bestowing blessings and powers.

Conclusion

Navratri is a festival that celebrates the divine feminine energy in its many forms. Through the devotion to the nine forms of Goddess Durga, devotees reflect on the importance of strength, compassion, and spirituality in their lives. Each day brings a deeper connection to these values. Thus, reminding people of the ever-present power of good over evil. Hence, Navratri serves as a time for both celebration and introspection as one follows these rituals and honors the Goddess.

2024 Buying Trip – North India

Every January, I embark on my journey to curate the stunning statues you’ll see on Lotus Sculpture throughout the year. This year’s journey takes me through the heart of India and Nepal, and yes, those are the majestic Himalayas I’m glimpsing from my window. The sight of these towering mountains is incredibly humbling!

I invite you to stay connected for weekly updates on my journey! I’ll be sending out newsletters, to sum up my adventures, and you can also follow along daily on Instagram for a more up-close and personal experience of my travels.

My trip began in Delhi, with my good friend Piyush, and I’ve already picked out some amazing new designs, like this Nandi, to add to our collection soon.

You have spoken and I have listened!
I’m very excited to share something new with you all! After hearing your requests for smaller murtis for home altars, I’ve found a fantastic range of brass and copper murtis, all 6 inches or smaller. It’s great to know I can bring exactly what you’ve been looking for to your sacred spaces. Your feedback is invaluable, and I’m thrilled to respond to your needs!

I had the chance to learn extensively about the coloring process of our brass murtis. Vijay, who manages the coloring, guided me through the entire procedure, giving me an insightful look into this intricate art form.

Check out the video below for a closer look at the process:

My visit to the showroom had a charming local twist when a mongoose curiously sniffed me, revealing that a mongoose family calls this place home. I was told by Carol on Instagram that “At least you’ll be safe from cobras!”
Thank you Carol but I am more worried about Delhi Belly than cobras at this point.

Check out the Instagram post below to meet my new mongoose friend:

Next, my journey took me to Jaipur, the heartland of India’s white marble craftsmanship. Here, I had the pleasure of meeting Ajaysharma and his brother, Vijay, in their quaint studio. Ajay is a master at carving intricate white marble statues, while Vijay brings them to life with his skillful painting. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and brotherly collaboration, truly capturing the essence of Jaipur’s artistic spirit.

I have managed to visit quite a few temples since I arrived. I just can’t get enough of the unique sights and sounds each one has to offer. It’s so cool to soak up all that energy – It really makes you feel part of something bigger.

I have just arrived in Nepal and am looking forward to exploring the narrow streets of Patan in search of more statues!

March 3rd, 2023

I’ve just returned from my buying trip, which included my final stop in Indonesia where I found myself captivated by the rows of moss-covered stone statues amidst the thick air left behind by the previous night’s rain. I couldn’t help but fall in love with these beautiful sculptures every time I laid eyes on them, and my weakness for their allure led me to purchase not one but two 40-foot containers full of them. These exquisite stone statues are set to arrive just in time for the spring gardening season in April-May.

Nyoman and I have been collaborating since 2004. His exceptional talent is immediately apparent in the delicate and fluid lines he carves into his Buddha statues, as exemplified by the plump and content Buddha he’s currently holding. The expression on the statue’s face is unlike anything else you’ll find in the Indonesian market, and to top it off, the Buddha is even holding a cup of coffee!

As an art enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for artists who possess the ability to create something truly distinctive with a style that’s unmistakably their own.

For 19 years, I’ve had the pleasure of working with Wayan Sabur and his son. Whenever I step into their workshop, I’m always greeted by Wayan’s warm and welcoming smile, which reflects his joyous outlook on life. He takes each day as it comes and truly enjoys every moment.

Despite the different perception of time in Indonesia, I’ve often commissioned custom orders with Wayan, only to return the next year to find them partially completed.

One of his remarkable creations is a stunning Buddha standing on a blooming lotus. The intricate carving of the Buddha’s robes is exceptional, resembling the undulating waves of the ocean more than traditional cloth. This design is so unique that I always purchase every statue he creates in this style.

Artists like Wayan used to be more common in Indonesia, but their time is dwindling. Thankfully, his son is ready to continue his father’s legacy by carrying on his designs and artistry into the next generation.

What do you think of these doors? Teak wood doors. Should Lotus Sculpture start importing them?

What do you think of this teak wood root decorative piece? It will be polished and cleaned up. It is unique in that it is just fine outdoors as well as indoors. It is monstrous too with a size of 8 feet by 8 feet. It is one of those unique pieces that you just do not see anymore.

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Echo for around 15 years. He works at a stone workshop and is a true character, as evidenced by his mischievous grin and playful demeanor, as seen in the photo of him holding his dentures.

Echo is like a large feline in his approach to work – he only works when he needs money and takes days off to rest and relax when his pockets are full. His lifestyle has earned him the nickname “Sultan Echo” since he lives like a sultan, sleeping when he’s satisfied and only working when he has to.

Personally, I love his approach to life. What a fantastic way to live – enjoying the fruits of your labor and only working when necessary!

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