Although tradition of celebrating Durga puja is very common among Hindu communities worldwide, the nature of celebration differs from regions to regions and nations to nations.  Every year this festival falls during lunar months of Asoj or Kartik (September- October). Generally Hindus observe ten days of ceremonies, rituals, fasts and feasts in honor of the supreme mother Goddess, Durga.  It begins with the fast of Nava ratri (nine nights) and ends with the festivities of “Dusshera” or Vijaya Dashami – the triumph of good over the evil on the tenth Day and marks the defeat and death of demon king Ravana by Lord Rama in the epic, “Ramayana.”

Vijaya Dashami has social, cultural and religious importance in Hindu communities.  In every family, children and grandchildren seek blessings from their parents and grandparents.  Even distant relatives visit their close ones during this time.  As a tradition and culture, people enjoy playing on swings, get dressed up in cultural clothing and delicious foods are served to mark the importance of the day.