2023 - Dussehra | Mint Souvenir Token

The India Government Mint, Kolkata, issued silver souvenir tokens in 2023 to mark the auspicious occasion of the Dussehra festival.

Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant festivals in India, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. It is celebrated on the Dashami Tithi, the tenth day of the bright fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashwin.

The festival is traditionally associated with Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana. According to the Ramayana, Ravana abducted Sita, leading to the great battle in Lanka. With the support of his brother Lakshmana, Hanuman and the Vanara army, Lord Rama defeated Ravana and rescued Sita. This victory represents the triumph of righteousness, truth and virtue over arrogance and evil.

Dussehra is celebrated in different ways across India, reflecting the country's diverse cultural traditions. In northern and central India, large effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghanada are traditionally prepared and ceremonially burnt. The burning of these effigies represents the destruction of evil and the victory of righteousness.

The festival is also associated with Ramlila, dramatic performances depicting important episodes from the life of Lord Rama. These performances are staged over several days and culminate on Vijayadashami with the depiction of Rama's victory over Ravana.

In West Bengal, Odisha, Assam and several other regions, Vijayadashami marks the conclusion of the Durga Puja celebrations. It commemorates Goddess Durga's victory over the demon Mahishasura, symbolising the triumph of divine power over evil. The immersion of Durga idols forms an important part of the concluding ceremonies.

In Karnataka, Dussehra is celebrated with particular grandeur during Mysuru Dasara. The historic festivities include royal traditions, cultural programmes, illuminated buildings and the grand procession featuring the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari. Mysuru Dasara has become an important cultural celebration that attracts visitors from across India and beyond.

In Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the festival is associated with Ayudha Puja and Vijayadashami, when tools, instruments, vehicles and objects used in daily work are ceremonially worshipped. The occasion is regarded as an auspicious time to begin new ventures, studies and other important activities.

Dussehra is also considered an important festival for students, artists, craftsmen, workers and professionals. The worship of books, musical instruments, tools and equipment reflects gratitude towards the means through which knowledge, creativity and livelihood are pursued. The festival brings families and communities together through prayers, cultural programmes, processions, fairs and traditional celebrations. It also provides an opportunity to reflect upon the values represented by the stories of Rama and Durga.

Dussehra carries a deeper spiritual message beyond its celebrations. It reminds people to overcome negative qualities such as pride, anger, greed, jealousy and arrogance, while encouraging truth, courage, compassion and righteousness.