Dusshera is a Hindu festival that celebrates the triumph of good over evil. The festival occurs at the end of the nine day festival of Navaratri. There are different local traditions in different parts of the world. In some areas, like Bengal, the story of the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura is retold, while in others the focus is on the victory of Lord Rama over the demon Ravana. The day is marked with plays, dancing and music. Priocessions are held, and in some places effigies of Ravana are burnt. Another popular tradition is to immerse clay statues in a river or the sea, where they dissolve. This symbolises the return of Durga to the gods.

The festival is also known as Vijayadashami or Dasara.

Teaching Ideas and Resources

• Make some sweet paneer kheer to enjoy.
• Make a cardboard Ravana.
• Learn some simple dance steps for Dusshera.

• This video tells several stories that are associated with the festival. Can you retell one of them to a partner?