Due to the influence of Indian Tamils in Sri Lanka, customs like Tamil Nadu are seen here.
In India, Dussehra is celebrated as a victory of truth over untruth, but in Sri Lanka, the ways and beliefs of celebrating it are different. The people of Sri Lanka, especially the Tamil community, considers Ravana as a great devotee, scholar and knowledge of Ayurveda. Ravana is seen as a hero in the folklore here. Ravana is not burnt in Sri Lanka.
Now the question arises that if Ravana is not burnt on Vijayadashami, then how does Sri Lanka celebrate Dussehra’s festival? What is the meaning of Dussehra to the people here?
How does Sri Lanka celebrate Dussehra?
Dussehra is celebrated in a very grand way in India. Many traditions are also prevalent with Ravana combustion in different states, but this does not happen in Sri Lanka. There is no tradition of celebrating Dussehra in a grand way like India. In Sri Lanka, where the number of people of Hindu Tamil community is celebrated with more enthusiasm there, but Ravana is not burnt.
After the worship of Maa Durga, Saraswati and Lakshmi in temples and houses for 9 days, there are special aarti and religious events in Goddess Amba, Kali or Durga temples in Tamil -dominated areas like Jaffna, Tinkomali and Batikloa. Like India, there is a tradition of worshiping tools, weapons, vehicles here.
Every year in Colombo, the member of the Indian Cultural Association organizes Durga Puja.
Tradition of student
Due to the influence of Indian Tamils in Sri Lanka, customs like Tamil Nadu are seen here. For example, in many areas, the day of Vijayadashami is also considered to be a day of starting education. This is called Vidyarambham. This day is considered auspicious for young children to write letters or start studies for the first time. On this day, there is a tradition of taking blessings of Mother Saraswati, the goddess of learning.
Ravana’s slaughter
How many arguments behind not burning Ravana in Sri Lanka?
There are many arguments behind not burning Lankapati in Sri Lanka, which is called the stronghold of Ravana. Even though Ravana is called a symbol of Asura and evil in India, Ravana is considered a scholar king, a scholar and great Shiva devotee in Sri Lanka, especially among the Tamil Hindus.
In the stories of the local people here, Ravana is described as a brave ruler and great king. The ruler who has done the work of making Lanka rich. This is the reason why Ravana is not seen as a villain here.
Burning Ravana in Sri Lanka is considered against cultural sentiments. Therefore, here Dussehra is celebrated as the victory of Rama and Ravana combustion, but as a festival of worship of power. The focal point of this festival in Sri Lanka is the tradition of Navratri, worship of weapons and Vidyarambham.
Where is the celebration in Sri Lanka?
- Colombo: Being the capital, Colombo is counted in the most vibrant places of celebrating Dussehra in Sri Lanka. Temples across the city are illuminated with special rituals and Ramayana-based plays. There are also plays and dance performances that tell Lord Rama’s story of victory over Ravana.
- Candy: The procession, traditional music and devotional meetings here create a festive atmosphere that shows the beautiful coordination of history and devotion.
- Nuwara Alia: Nuwara Elia, called Chhota England, is not only captivating, but is also deeply connected to the Ramayana path. During Dussehra, rituals and narrative sessions related to Ravana and Lanka are held in the temples here.
- Tinkomali: There are special people on the occasion of Dussehra in the Konewaram temple here. Grand ceremonies, prayers and processions are organized in the temple.
- Jaffna: It is called a city with Hindu cultural roots. Here this festival is celebrated with full devotion and energy. From rituals in the temple to community celebrations, it gives a glimpse of its authenticity.
Also read: How did Meerut become Ravana’s in -laws, what is the story of Mandodari?