Dussehra, a festival that signifies the victory of good over evil, was celebrated with great enthusiasm across Jammu and Kashmir this year. The spirit of the festival, known for symbolizing Lord Rama’s triumph over Ravana, resonated not just in traditional Hindu households but also among communities of different faiths, highlighting the rich cultural diversity and religious harmony that defines the region.
In Jammu and Kashmir, a region historically marked by its vibrant confluence of cultures and religions, the Dussehra celebrations this year stood as a powerful testament to the unity that continues to prevail, even in times of complexity. Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus alike participated in the festivities, reflecting the essence of Kashmiriyat—the spirit of coexistence that binds the people of this land.
The burning of effigies of Ravana, which marked the culmination of Dussehra, was not just a symbolic act of the triumph of good over evil but also a reminder of the strength that comes from unity. At a time when the world is grappling with divisions based on religion, ethnicity, and politics, Jammu and Kashmir’s celebrations offered a glimpse into what a harmonious society can achieve.
For decades, this region has faced its share of challenges, from political upheavals to the scars of conflict. Yet, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have continuously strived to uphold their shared heritage. Dussehra, along with other festivals like Eid, Diwali, Baisakhi, and Christmas, has become an occasion to foster communal ties, bridging differences and encouraging mutual respect.
The participation of people from all walks of life in these celebrations sends a message that religious harmony is not just a goal but a lived reality. It reinforces the idea that unity in diversity is the foundation of any society aspiring to peace and development. Festivals like Dussehra offer opportunities to strengthen bonds, counter narratives of division, and nurture a sense of belonging among all communities.
The government’s efforts in ensuring peaceful and grand celebrations, with support from local organizations, were also commendable. Security measures were heightened, but the mood remained festive and inclusive. The peaceful culmination of the festival across the region should serve as a model for other states and communities struggling with sectarianism.
As Jammu and Kashmir moves forward, such celebrations are crucial in fostering a broader dialogue about religious tolerance and cohabitation. They remind us that, while history may have its divisions, the present and future can be built on a foundation of understanding, mutual respect, and unity.
In a world that is often divided, Jammu and Kashmir’s Dussehra celebrations were a heartening reminder that the ultimate victory of good over evil can only be achieved when societies stand together, transcending religious and cultural differences. This festival, rooted in mythology but deeply relevant to today’s challenges, reminds us that light can overcome darkness—not just in folklore, but in reality too.
As we reflect on Dussehra’s message, it’s worth remembering that festivals are more than rituals; they are moments that shape our collective identity. Jammu and Kashmir, in its celebration of this festival, has shown once again that religious harmony is not just a concept but a lived experience.
