Dussehra 2024 Ravan Dahan Time: Major Celebrations in Delhi, Noida, Ayodhya, and Other Cities
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India. This year, the festival falls on October 12, 2024. It symbolizes the victory of good over evil, commemorating Lord Rama’s triumph over the demon king Ravana. The highlight of the day is the Ravan Dahan, where effigies of Ravana, along with his brother Kumbhkaran and son Meghnath, are set ablaze. This ritual marks the end of negativity and the celebration of righteousness.
Main Points
Full Details of Ravan Dahan Timings
On Dussehra 2024, the auspicious timings for Ravan Dahan vary across different cities. The overall window for Ravan Dahan extends from sunset until approximately 10:30 PM. However, the most favorable time for performing this ritual is between 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Here are the specific timings for major cities:
| City | Ravan Dahan Time |
|---|---|
| Delhi | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
| Noida | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
| Ayodhya | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
| Mumbai | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
| Bengaluru | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
| Chennai | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
| Kolkata | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
| Jaipur | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
| Hyderabad | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
| Ahmedabad | 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM |
Significance of Ravan Dahan
Ravan Dahan is not just a visual spectacle; it carries deep cultural and spiritual significance. The ritual represents the destruction of pride, ego, and injustice. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama’s battle against Ravana is a metaphor for overcoming one’s inner demons.
In many regions, this day is marked by grand celebrations that include fireworks, music, and dance performances. In cities like Delhi and Varanasi, large crowds gather in public spaces to witness the burning of effigies. The atmosphere is filled with joy and a sense of community as people come together to celebrate.
Regional Variations in Celebrations
Dussehra celebrations vary significantly across India:
- North India: In states like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, Ravan Dahan is a major public event. Large effigies are constructed and filled with fireworks.
- West Bengal: Here, Dussehra coincides with Durga Puja, culminating in the immersion of Goddess Durga’s idol.
- Mysore: The festival is celebrated with grand processions featuring local deities.
- Kullu: A unique tradition involves a procession of local gods before burning Ravan’s effigy.
Rituals Associated with Dussehra
The rituals performed on Dussehra include:
- Puja (Worship):
- Devotees set up an altar decorated with flowers and fruits.
- Idols of Lord Rama and Goddess Durga are placed on a red cloth.
- Offerings like sweets and fruits are made.
- Recitation of Scriptures:
- Many families recite verses from the Ramayana.
- Community Gatherings:
- Families and friends come together to celebrate with food and festivities.
- Cultural Programs:
- In many cities, Ramleela performances depict the story of Rama’s victory over Ravana.
Dussehra is a time for reflection on moral values and community bonding. As people gather to witness Ravan Dahan, they not only celebrate a significant event in Hindu mythology but also reinforce their commitment to righteousness in everyday life.
