Odisha Celebrates Vijayadashami to Mark Triumph of Good over Evil

Bhubaneswar: Odisha is preparing to conclude Durga Puja 2019 on a high note today. Vijaya Dashami is being celebrated across the State with gaiety and religious fervor to mark the triumph of good over evil.

It is said that Goddess Durga eliminated mighty demon Mahishasura during “Navratri” or nine nights. Different religious texts mention different names for incarnation of Goddess Durga who killed Mahishasura. Hence, the victory of Goddess Durga over evil is celebrated during Navratri.

As per Hindu religious text Ramayana, it is the day when Lord Rama had killed Lanka king, Ravana, who had kidnapped his wife, Goddess Sita. The festival is celebrated as a symbol of victory of good over evil.

The festivity also marks the beginning of the harvest season. Prayers are said and rituals observed to invoke the blessings of Mother Earth for a good harvest, peace and prosperity.

Devotees of all ages have started gathering at different Puja pandals to offer prayer to Goddess Durga.

People are celebrating Vijayadashami by observing social gatherings and offering sweets and gifts to relatives, friends and neighbors.

On the occasion, various rituals, including Aprajita Puja are being performed at Pandals and Peethas to mark the triumph of Good over Evil.

Apart from it, Ravana Podi, which symbolizes Goddess Durga’s victory over demon king Mahishasura, will be performed in the evening today.

Special arrangements have been made by various puja committees to hold Ravana Podi rituals in grand way. Towering effigies of Ravana will be burnt with firecrackers at different places in Odisha.

To make this festivity peaceful, elaborate security arrangement has been made across the State.