Ringing in the true spirit of Dussehra

As the vibrant orange and yellow of marigold filled shops, homes, and adorned every vehicle on the street, my mind, now lulled in celebration, sought to think deeply, to find and make meaning of the auspicious festival of Dussehra.

Tradition and culture speak of Dussehra being celebrated as Lord Rama rises with victory over Ravana on this day. It holds the symbolism of the victory of good over evil. Over time, people have celebrated this day with the intent of "may truth win and prevail, may all evil be destroyed." It holds the symbolism of the victory of good over evil. Over time, people have celebrated this day with the intent of "may truth win and prevail, may all evil be destroyed."

This year's Dussehra saw a mild political upsurge, with Shiv Sena and Shinde groups competing in a subtle war of words to prove they are the true devotees of Lord Rama and the true followers and protectors of Hinduism. My mind, however, started questioning my consciousness with a neutral mindset and with no intent to oppose this thought and effort.

What do you value the most when it comes to celebrating festivals? Visiting temples, sitting in devotion, singing "aarti," fasting, bowing in faith, following religion, and more; was all this the only proof of rising to victory?

I am a firm believer in the thought that the ‘Ravana’ of this ‘Yuga’, this century, lies in many things. It can be a behavioral trait, intent, jealousy, deception, conscious evil thoughts and the like. To elaborate

1. A simple act of rash driving, such as jumping traffic lights or not following traffic rules.
2. We limit our help, knowledge, and resources to not helping a friend or colleague in need, despite having the potential.
3. Feelings of jealousy, anger, and hatred towards each other, be it a family member, friend, or foe.
4. Unfaithfulness in relationships, cheating of any kind, even cheating of the mind, does count.
5. Giving up on family; ignoring, humiliating, or alienating them; failing to accept parental responsibility
6. People are gossiping, belittling, and badmouthing each other behind their backs.
7. Competing, comparing, and blaming others.
8. Professional rivalry, unhealthy practices, bribing, compromising on integrity.

These are the few things that come to my mind when I think of the evil that needs to be destroyed. Our thoughts, ideals, words, thoughts, and actions shape Ravana in the modern era. If there is an evil that we need to defeat, it is this in its every form. Only after we defeat these can we proudly call ourselves the true devotees of Lord Rama and true followers of the Hindu religion.

Why do we celebrate festivals with sparkle on the surface and darkness in our minds and hearts? The true celebration of Dussehra is fighting against all these, defeating them with dedication, mind control, strength and positivity. Sure, we are all human; we are wired to get carried away—sometimes leading us to make wrong decisions, actions, and thoughts.

I can, however, assure you that with a healthy body and mind, we can tame and train our thoughts. By aligning our body, mind, and spirit in balance, we can achieve a pure conscience that nourishes only the good and eradicates all evil. I always suggest a simple solution to my friends and family, which is to ask yourself and your children these 3 questions every day.

1. What new did I learn today?
2. Who / What was I grateful for today?
3. Whom did I help today?

These simple habits will reap some of the most powerful and positive thoughts in our minds. It will boost our spiritual quotient, social and emotional behavior, knowledge and gratitude in us. This transformation will serve as the foundation for transforming our country!

My friends, live fully, love truly, be inspired, laugh and spread joy! I am wishing you all a fabulous Dussehra! I pray and wish you all endless strength and prosperity in your lives!