The Dussehra festival, also known as Dasara or Vijaya Dashami, is a festival that is celebrated on October 12, by Hindus around the world. In Hinduism, the Dussehra festival celebrates good forces over evil ones. The festival take place over ten days and is celebrated through different traditions by Hindus in Canada, India and globally. According to the Hindu calendar, Dussehra is marked on the 10th day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Ashvin (Ashwayuja). It celebrates the Hindu god Rama’s victory over the demon king, Ravana, and the triumph of good over evil. Dussehra is celebrated in a number of ways such as festivals, music, dance, prayer, food and fireworks.

Durham College is committed to providing an inclusive and respectful learning and working environment. Below are some resources on and off campus to help us connect to and learn more about Dussehra, Hinduism, and learn about our rights and responsibilities to create a campus community free of discrimination and harassment:

• Religion and Human Rights
• DC’s Hindu Student Organization
• Vijaya Dashami or Dussehra 
• Hinduism Holy Days: Hindu Religious Observances Calendar
• Harassment, Workplace Sexual Harassment/Misconduct and Discrimination Policy