Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is a significant Hindu festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil, symbolized by Lord Ram’s victory over Ravana. It is observed on the tenth day of the bright fortnight in the month of Ashwin, and this year it falls on October 12, 2024. While the religious significance of Dussehra is well-known, there are also certain spiritual practices or “upay” that you can follow on this day to bring positive changes into your life. Vastu experts suggest some simple remedies for removing negative energy from your home and fostering peace, prosperity, and harmony within your family.
Worship the Shami Tree and Offer Water
Worshipping the Shami tree on Dussehra is considered highly auspicious. After the prayer, light a mustard oil or sesame oil lamp and offer water to the tree. This practice is believed to invite positive energy and help overcome obstacles.
Perform Durga Puja with Children
Involve your children in the worship of Goddess Durga on Dussehra. Offer turmeric, vermillion, and flowers to the deity. This not only strengthens family bonds but also brings prosperity. Placing religious and educational books in the prayer area is also beneficial.
Donate Ten Items
Donating ten items on Dussehra brings immense spiritual merit. You can offer grains, fruits, clothes, salt, ghee, sugar, an umbrella, slippers, or sweets to the needy or to Brahmins. This gesture is believed to enhance happiness and prosperity in your life.
Worship New and Old Vehicles
On this day, it is advised to worship both new and old vehicles. If you own a licensed weapon, you should worship it as well. After the Ravan effigy is burnt, bringing a half-burnt piece of wood home is considered lucky as it is thought to attract positive energy.
Worship Lord Hanuman
Special prayers to Lord Hanuman on Dussehra are recommended. Offer pure ghee and vermillion, and recite the Hanuman Chalisa or Sundar Kand. This is believed to bring peace and progress to the household.
Create a Rangoli and Light Lamps
Drawing a rangoli in your courtyard and lighting lamps around the house symbolizes auspiciousness and positivity. It is said to keep evil forces at bay and welcome good fortune.
Cleanse Your Home with Salt Water
Clean your home thoroughly on Dussehra and mop the floors using salt water. This practice is believed to eliminate negative energy and increase the flow of positive vibes in your home.
Share Prasad with Family
Prepare halwa (a sweet dish made from flour or semolina) as an offering to the deities, and then share it with your family. This ritual is believed to foster love and harmony among family members.
These simple yet meaningful practices can help you embrace the true spirit of Dussehra while inviting blessings and positivity into your life.
