Dashami marks the end of the the nine days of Durga Puja. The day is basically the celebration of the victory over evil demons named Shumbh and Nishumbh. Vijayadashami also celebrates the victory of Lord Ram over Ravana as cited in the epic Ramayana. This is when Lord Ram rescues his wife Sita who was abducted by Ravana and imprisoned in Lanka. Effigies of Ravana are burnt to mark the victory of good over evil. According to Mahabharata, Vijaya Dashami also marks the end of “Agyatvas” or exile in disguise for the Pandavas.

On this day, Durga is believed to leave for her husband, Shiva’s abode in the Himalayas. The idol is immersed in the Ganges on this day and the festivities of greeting each other and distributing sweets begin. The young seek the blessings of the elders on this occasion.