Mumbai: Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is celebrated as one of the most auspicious days of the year. It marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and the triumph of good over evil. Across India, the festival is observed with grandeur through Ram Leela performances and the symbolic burning of Ravana’s effigies.
But Dussehra is not just about Ravana Dahan. Another powerful and ancient ritual associated with this day is Shami Puja. Rooted in mythology, scriptures, and astrology, worshipping the Shami tree on Dussehra is believed to invite strength, wealth, and blessings of Saturn while removing obstacles from life.
The Mahabharata Connection: Pandavas and the Shami Tree
The significance of the Shami tree dates back to the Mahabharata. When the Pandavas went into exile, they hid their weapons in a Shami tree before entering the final year of anonymity. Twelve years later, they retrieved their weapons and found them intact, symbolising protection and divine victory. Since then, Shami Puja and Shastra Puja (worship of weapons) on Dussehra have been an enduring tradition.
Why Shami Leaves Are Called ‘Gold’
In states like Maharashtra and South India, there is a unique custom of exchanging Shami leaves on Dussehra. Popularly known as ‘Sona’ or gold, these leaves are believed to be as auspicious as real gold. Keeping them at home is said to attract Goddess Lakshmi, ensuring prosperity, peace, and abundance. Families often place them in puja rooms or lockers for wealth and good fortune.
Astrological Importance of Shami Tree
According to astrology, the Shami tree is dear to Lord Shani (Saturn). Performing Shami Puja on Dussehra helps pacify Saturn’s malefic influence, removes professional hurdles, and strengthens business growth. Devotees who regularly worship the Shami tree are believed to gain stability, protection from enemies, and ultimate success.
Benefits of Shami Puja on Dussehra
Protection from enemies and obstacles
Removal of Shani dosha and malefic planetary effects
Growth of wealth, prosperity, and good luck
Peace, stability, and harmony at home
Victory in career, business, and legal matters
Strength to overcome challenges in every sphere of life
Ravana and Shami: A Lesser-Known Connection
Legends also say that Ravana worshipped the Shami tree in Lanka, linking it with war and victory. Even today, in parts of South India, devotees worship the Shami tree on Vijayadashami, seeking blessings for courage, protection, and success in all endeavours.
Dussehra is not just a festival of burning effigies and celebrating good over evil. It is also a time to invite strength, prosperity, and divine grace into life. Performing Shami Puja on Vijayadashami brings wealth, removes obstacles, and ensures victory in every battle of life. That’s why this age-old tradition continues to be considered sacred and essential on Dussehra.