Is Vijayadashami Being Celebrated with Great Enthusiasm at Jammu’s Parade Ground?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Vijayadashami signifies the victory of good over evil.
- The festival promotes communal harmony among different religions.
- Artisans have been creating effigies for generations.
- Security measures are heightened to ensure safety during celebrations.
- Traditions are celebrated with great enthusiasm and cultural richness.
Jammu, Oct 2 (NationPress) The Vijayadashami festival is being celebrated with immense fervor on Thursday in Jammu, especially at the iconic Parade Ground, where the main festivities are set to unfold later.
Final preparations are underway, and the Jammu and Kashmir Police have initiated a comprehensive security operation to ensure the safety of all participants. Security measures have been significantly enhanced.
In the evening, effigies of Ravan will be set alight, followed by a spectacular procession, attracting crowds from all over the region.
Artisans involved in the celebration told IANS that the tradition of Dussehra celebrations at the Parade Ground has persisted for centuries. For the past 40 years, their families have dedicated themselves to constructing effigies and taking part in the festivities. They emphasized that Vijayadashami in Jammu epitomizes communal harmony, uniting Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs in celebration.
“Some political elements attempt to disrupt this harmony,” remarked one artisan, “but messages like ‘I love Muhammad’ and ‘I love Mahakal’ symbolize our unity. We urge everyone to maintain brotherhood and peace.”
Another artisan mentioned, “We have been crafting effigies for locations such as Leh and Srinagar. Preparations begin a month in advance. However, due to the current situation, celebrations in Leh have been called off. Nevertheless, a large effigy of Ravan has been erected here at the Parade Ground and is ready for the ceremony.”
Vijayadashami, also referred to as Dussehra, signifies the conclusion of the Navratri and Durga Puja festivals. It honors Lord Ram’s conquest over the demon king Ravan and Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura, representing the triumph of good over evil. This day also signifies new beginnings, renewal, and the eradication of negative traits like ego, arrogance, and injustice.
Spiritually, Dussehra reinforces the belief that righteousness and truth ultimately prevail over evil, no matter how formidable the forces of darkness may appear. As the effigies burn and the celebrations commence, the message remains clear: good invariably prevails over evil.