Rajasthan shows 66% decline in child marriages among girls and 67% among boys, reveals landmark report

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October 1, 2025, 1:27 PM

• Awareness campaigns and legal enforcement—FIRs and arrests—are cited as most effective deterrents
• Report released by Just Rights for Children (JRC), a network of over 250 NGOs
• 17 JRC partner organisations operate in 38 districts across Rajasthan

Rajasthan, once among India’s states most affected by child marriage, has recorded a remarkable 66% decline in child marriages among girls and 67% among boys over the past three years, according to a new report titled:
“Tipping Point to Zero: Evidence Towards a Child Marriage Free India”
The report was released by Just Rights for Children (JRC) during a side event at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

The study identifies poverty (91%), traditional practices (45%), and the belief in early marriage ensuring purity (45%) as the top drivers of child marriage in Rajasthan.

At the national level, child marriages have declined by 69% among girls and 72% among boys. Significant progress was also reported in other states:

Assam: 84% decline (girls)
Bihar and Maharashtra: 70% decline
Karnataka: 55% decline

Key Factors Behind the Decline in Rajasthan

The report credits the multi-sectoral efforts of the Government of Rajasthan, central government, and civil society as driving forces behind this progress. Among the most impactful initiatives:

Community awareness campaigns
Compulsory marriage registration
Integration of child marriage prevention into local governance
Activation of village-level child protection committees
Legal action including FIRs and arrests during high-risk periods such as Akshaya Tritiya

Ravi Kant, National Convenor of Just Rights for Children, praised the state’s efforts:

“Rajasthan’s strong and innovative stance against child marriage has been both nuanced and effective. Holding village heads accountable, acting firmly during high-risk occasions, and ensuring convergence of government schemes, law enforcement, and NGOs at the grassroots have driven real change. Rajasthan is on track to become child marriage free before 2030.”

Survey Insights

The report is based on field data collected from 757 villages across five states, using Multistage Stratified Random Sampling. In Rajasthan, data was collected from 150 villages, engaging key frontline service providers such as:

ASHA workers
Anganwadi workers
School teachers
Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs)
Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members

Key survey findings in Rajasthan:

99% of respondents said awareness campaigns were the most effective tool in reducing child marriage
82% cited prosecution (FIRs and arrests) as the second most effective deterrent
99% were aware of the Government of India’s Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign
100% had taken a pledge against child marriage
75% credited NGOs as key facilitators of the national campaign

Recommendations

The report offers key recommendations for achieving a Child Marriage Free India by 2030:

Strict enforcement of the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA)
Improved reporting and monitoring mechanisms
Compulsory registration of all marriages
Village-level awareness about the Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat portal
Declaration of a National Day Against Child Marriage to mobilize nationwide action

About the Report
The report was prepared by the Centre for Legal Action and Behaviour Change for Children (C-LAB), an initiative of JRC Partner India Child Protection. JRC is one of India’s largest child protection networks, with over 250 NGOs, including 17 working across 38 districts in Rajasthan.

U.S. Government Shutdown Begins Amid Funding Bill Failure

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October 1, 2025, 1:20 PM

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The United States has entered a government shutdown after former President Donald Trump failed to pass a critical funding bill in the Senate. The bill received only 55 votes in favor, falling short of the 60 votes required for approval.

This marks the first government shutdown since 2019, bringing non-essential government operations to a standstill and suspending salaries for hundreds of thousands of federal employees.

Senate Funding Bill Fails

The Senate vote took place late Tuesday night. The final tally was:

55 in favor
45 against

Despite having 53 Republican senators, Trump needed support from the opposition Democrats to reach the 60-vote threshold. However, Democrats voted unanimously against the bill.

Notably, both independent senators sided with the Republicans, but it wasn’t enough to secure passage.

What Is a Government Shutdown?

In the U.S., Congress must approve an annual budget to fund government operations. When lawmakers fail to pass a funding bill, non-essential government services lose their funding—this is known as a government shutdown.

During a shutdown:

Non-essential services are suspended
Federal employees may be furloughed or work without pay
Essential services like defense, law enforcement, and emergency care continue

Heated Political Standoff

Tensions flared during Tuesday’s Senate session, with intense exchanges between Republican and Democratic lawmakers over the budget bill.

At the center of the dispute is funding for the Obama-era health care subsidy program. Democrats have demanded an increase in subsidies, while Republicans argue that expanding healthcare spending would strain the federal budget and disrupt other programs.

A meeting held Monday at the White House between Trump and key Democratic leaders Hakeem Jeffries and Chuck Schumer failed to break the deadlock.

Republican Response and Next Steps

Republican leaders have pledged to bring the funding bill for a vote daily until Democrats agree to support it. Trump has blamed Democrats for the shutdown, accusing them of obstruction and threatening federal employee layoffs.

Currently, up to 900,000 government workers face the prospect of being placed on leave without pay.

Trump’s Shutdown Strategy

Trump appears to be using the shutdown as a political tool to pressure Democrats and advance his agenda. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) can designate services as essential or non-essential. This gives Trump the power to:

Prioritize defense and immigration
De-emphasize Democratic-backed programs like education, health, and environmental protections

So far, the Trump administration has cut 300,000 federal jobs as part of broader government downsizing efforts.

The White House has reportedly instructed agencies to blame Democrats for the shutdown—a move that may violate federal ethics laws.

Political Risks and Rewards

Trump believes the shutdown could rally his base, as seen during the 2018–2019 shutdown, which also lasted several weeks. A short-term shutdown may allow him to push his policy priorities, but a prolonged crisis risks:

Economic disruption
Political backlash
Public frustration with stalled services

U.S. Fiscal Year and Budget Deadline

The U.S. fiscal year begins on October 1, the deadline by which a new federal budget must be approved. Without it, the government lacks legal authority to spend money—triggering a shutdown.

This period sets the agenda for federal investments, including in:

Defense
Healthcare
Education

Failure to pass the budget before this date halts funding and affects public services nationwide.

Conclusion

The current government shutdown reveals deep divisions between Republicans and Democrats over spending priorities, particularly healthcare. As political negotiations continue, millions of Americans—and nearly a million federal workers—are left in uncertainty.

NASA-ISRO NISAR Satellite Sends First Earth Images

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October 1, 2025, 1:12 PM

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The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite has transmitted its first images of Earth, marking a major milestone as the joint mission moves toward full science operations later in 2025. The high-resolution radar data is expected to significantly enhance disaster response, infrastructure monitoring, and agricultural management across the globe.

Overview of the NISAR Mission

NISAR is a collaborative Earth observation mission between NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Launched on July 30, 2025, the satellite uses advanced L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology to capture detailed images of Earth’s surface. Its radar imaging capabilities work regardless of weather conditions or daylight, making it ideal for consistent, year-round surface monitoring.

First Images and Their Importance

The initial radar images include views of Mount Desert Island in Maine and parts of northeastern North Dakota. These images show remarkable detail, clearly distinguishing features such as water bodies, forests, bare ground, and human-made structures. Objects as small as five meters are visible. The images also reveal land use patterns, including wetlands, agricultural fields, and irrigation systems, offering valuable insights into both natural and human-modified landscapes.

Key Technological Features of L-Band SAR

NISAR’s L-band radar penetrates clouds and vegetation, enabling uninterrupted data collection. It can distinguish between various types of land cover, such as low vegetation, dense forests, and urban environments. This level of precision is essential for accurately monitoring ecosystems and tracking changes caused by human activity or natural processes.

Applications in Environmental and Resource Monitoring

The data from NISAR will be instrumental in:

Tracking forest cover changes and wetland health
Monitoring crop growth cycles and agricultural productivity
Assessing the impact of climate change and human development
Supporting disaster management efforts, such as flood or landslide prediction
Enabling sustainable land use planning and conservation strategies

A Model of International Collaboration

NISAR stands as a symbol of successful collaboration between the United States and India, combining NASA’s radar technology expertise with ISRO’s launch capabilities. Beyond Earth observation, the mission is expected to contribute valuable data for planetary science and future exploration of the Moon and Mars.

Conclusion:
The successful transmission of NISAR’s first Earth images signals the beginning of a new era in global environmental monitoring. With its powerful radar capabilities and international backing, NISAR is poised to become one of the most impactful Earth science missions of the decade.

New UGC Rules for Foreign Student Registration

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October 1, 2025, 12:42 PM

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The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced new regulations requiring all foreign nationals studying at Indian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to register on the Study in India (SII) portal starting from the 2025–26 academic year. This initiative aims to centralize foreign student data and link study visas to the SII portal, enhancing monitoring, safety, and compliance.

Background

Until now, foreign students typically applied directly to individual institutions, which also assisted with their visa processes. However, the absence of a centralized database made it difficult to track student movements and address security and visa overstay concerns.

To address these issues, the Ministry of Education has directed the UGC to enforce mandatory registration of foreign students on the SII portal.

Objectives of SII Portal Registration

The SII portal aims to:

Establish a unified system for managing data on foreign students.
Link study visas to student records for real-time tracking.
Streamline the admission and visa processes for both students and institutions.
Enhance student safety and campus security through improved oversight.

Role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)

All HEIs admitting foreign students must:

Register on the SII portal.
Appoint a Compliance Officer to oversee the implementation of SII guidelines.
Ensure proper accommodation, security, and support systems for foreign students.
Facilitate smooth coordination of admissions and visa procedures.

Impact on Foreign Student Influx

States like Karnataka anticipate a rise in foreign student enrollment, especially in Bengaluru, which is attracting international institutions like:

Imperial College London
University of Liverpool
University of Wolverhampton (planning a local campus)

The SII portal will assist these institutions in efficiently managing the growing foreign student population.

Benefits of Centralized Foreign Student Data

Improved tracking of foreign students throughout their academic stay.
Reduced visa overstays and mitigation of associated legal issues.
Enhanced ability for institutions to plan accommodations and student welfare.
Promotes transparency and accountability in foreign admissions.

Conclusion:
The UGC’s move to centralize foreign student registration through the SII portal marks a significant step toward strengthening India’s higher education ecosystem. By improving oversight and streamlining processes, it promises to make India a more secure and attractive destination for international students.

Best Happy Dussehra Wishes, Quotes, Greetings & Messages to Share on Insta/FB/ WhatsApp

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September 30, 2025, 10:47 PM

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Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, comes from the Sanskrit words dasha (ten) and hara (defeat), symbolising the triumph of Lord Rama over the ten-headed Ravana. As the grand finale of Navratri, the festival is celebrated across India in unique ways: Ramleela enactments and Ravana effigy burnings in North India, Durga idol immersions in the East, and prayers, processions, and cultural traditions in the South and West.

Traditionally, students also honour their teachers on this day by offering dakshina (a token of gratitude). Today, the spirit of Vijayadashami extends to exchanging thoughtful gifts with loved ones—jewellery often symbolising prosperity, blessings, and cherished memories. Sharing heartfelt wishes and greetings adds a personal touch to the celebration.

Short & Meaningful Happy Dussehra Wishes

Happy Dussehra! May light always conquer darkness in your life.
Wishing you peace, prosperity, and positivity this Dussehra.
Celebrate victory and new beginnings—Happy Dussehra 2025!
May the blessings of Lord Rama guide you to success.
Let this Dussehra inspire courage in all that you do.
May your worries burn away like Ravana’s effigy today.
On Vijayadashami, may goodness always prevail in your heart.
Wishing you a year of triumphs and joyful celebrations.
Happy Vijayadashami! May this sacred day bring peace and clarity.

Longer Heartfelt Messages

On this special day, may you conquer life’s struggles and achieve your dreams with renewed energy.
Dussehra reminds us that truth will always win—may this belief give you strength.
May you and your family be blessed with happiness, prosperity, and endless joy this festive season.
Like the burning effigies, may negativity and doubts vanish from your life.
Dussehra teaches us resilience—may you rise above every difficulty with faith.
Happy Vijayadashami! May goodness guide every step you take this year.

🇮🇳 Happy Dussehra Wishes in Hindi

“दशहरा की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं! आपके जीवन में सदैव सत्य की विजय हो।”
“विजयदशमी के पावन अवसर पर आपके जीवन में खुशियां और समृद्धि आए।”
“दशहरा हमें सिखाता है कि अच्छाई हमेशा बुराई पर विजय प्राप्त करती है।”
“इस दशहरे पर आपके सभी कष्ट दूर हों और सुख-शांति का आगमन हो।”
“आपको और आपके परिवार को विजयदशमी की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं।”

Happy Dussehra Wishes in English

May this Dussehra bring light, hope, and prosperity into your home.
Happy Dussehra 2025! May your life always reflect the triumph of good.
May this festival inspire you to overcome every challenge with courage.
Dussehra is a reminder that kindness and truth always endure.
Happy Vijayadashami! May your family be blessed with harmony and love.

Happy Dussehra Quotes

“Evil may rise, but truth will always stand taller.”
“Dussehra is not just about burning Ravana; it’s about burning our ego.”
“The festival teaches us that faith and courage can defeat even the strongest evil.”
“Celebrate not only Rama’s victory but the victory of your better self.”
“Let Dussehra remind you that no night is so dark that dawn will not follow.”

Greetings for Colleagues

Greetings on Dussehra! Wishing you success and prosperity in every step.
Best wishes on Vijayadashami—may integrity and strength guide you always.
May this festive season bring harmony and fulfilment to your professional journey.
Sending warm greetings—let goodness and positivity mark your days.

Messages for Friends & Family

Dussehra celebrates victory—may you win over challenges in life.
As Ravana’s effigy burns, let all negativity in your life vanish.
May Vijayadashami fill your home with love and laughter.
On this day, let’s celebrate kindness, courage, and compassion.
Happy Vijayadashami! May your heart be filled with joy and your life with blessings.

Subho Bijoya Dashami (Bengali Greetings)

“শুভ বিজয়া দশমী! আপনার জীবনে সুখ ও শান্তি আসুক।” (Wishing you joy and peace)
“মা দুর্গার আশীর্বাদ আপনার পথচলাকে আলোকিত করুক।” (May Maa Durga’s blessings guide you)
“বিজয়ার এই দিনে আপনার পরিবারে সমৃদ্ধি আসুক।” (May prosperity enter your family)
“শুভ বিজয়া! জীবনে সর্বদা ভালোবাসা ও আশা থাকুক।” (Wishing love and hope always)
“বিজয়া দশমীতে আনন্দ ও সুস্থতা কামনা করি।” (Wishing happiness and good health)

When is Dussehra 2025?

This year, Dussehra (Vijayadashami) will be celebrated on Thursday, 2 October 2025.

In North India, it marks Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana.
In Eastern India, it coincides with Durga Puja, celebrating Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura.

Both traditions remind us that good always triumphs over evil

Posters

Best Happy Dussehra Wishes, Quotes, Greetings & Messages to Share on Insta/FB/ WhatsApp

Asia Cup 2025 Trophy Row: Know Drama Reported After India’s Title Win

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September 30, 2025, 10:37 PM

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The Asia Cup 2025 final between India and Pakistan ended with jubilation for Indian fans, but the trophy presentation has turned into an unexpected controversy.

After India’s five-wicket victory in Dubai, ACC and PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi stepped onto the presentation stage with the trophy and medals. However, Team India refused to accept them directly from him, citing their stance of collecting silverware only from a neutral official. The awkward standoff saw Naqvi walk away with the trophy, later taking it back to his hotel room.

For two days, confusion reigned over the fate of the trophy. Reports emerged that Naqvi has set a condition—the Indian players will receive their medals and trophy only if a formal ceremony is organised where he can hand them over personally. Given the tense political ties between India and Pakistan, such a scenario appears highly unlikely.

The BCCI reacted sharply. Secretary Devajit Saikia called Naqvi’s conduct “unsporting” and “very unfortunate,” stressing that the trophy cannot remain in his possession. The Indian board has already decided to escalate the issue at the upcoming ICC conference in Dubai in November, where a strong protest will be lodged against the ACC chairman’s actions.

Meanwhile, the controversy has overshadowed India’s memorable title win, with fans and former cricketers demanding that the team be given its trophy without further delay. For now, the Asia Cup’s silverware remains at the centre of an unprecedented cricketing row.

Cricket: Tilak Varma, an Electrician’s Son, Is Now India’s Asia Cup Hero

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September 30, 2025, 9:25 PM

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At just 22, Tilak Varma has emerged as India’s hero in the Asia Cup Final, delivering a calm, masterful innings under immense pressure against Pakistan. From humble beginnings in Hyderabad to cricketing stardom, Tilak’s journey is a story of talent, perseverance, and unwavering mentorship.

Tilak Varma’s Parents

Born on November 8, 2002, in Balapur, Hyderabad, Tilak is the son of Namboori Nagaraju, an electrician, and Gayatri Devi, a homemaker. Cricket was a passion from childhood, and Tilak carried a plastic bat everywhere, even sleeping with it by his side. Financial constraints threatened to halt his dreams, but local coach Salam Bayash noticed the left-hander’s natural timing during a tennis-ball game and took it upon himself to nurture Tilak’s talent, covering training and equipment costs.

Tilak Varma’s Struggle

Initially, Tilak traveled long distances daily to reach the academy in Serilingampally. Eventually, his family moved closer to facilitate his training. By 2013, Tilak began formal coaching and quickly made his mark in local tournaments. Representing Hyderabad in U14, U16, and U19 competitions, he steadily climbed the ranks, with standout performances in the Cooch Behar and Vinoo Mankad Trophy tournaments earning him national attention.

His Start

In 2020, Tilak debuted in first-class cricket for Hyderabad in the Ranji Trophy. His breakthrough came in the IPL, when Mumbai Indians bought him for ₹1.7 crore in 2022. He impressed immediately, scoring 397 runs in 14 matches in his debut season, followed by 343 runs in 11 games in 2023. His composure against spin and ability to finish matches caught the selectors’ eyes, earning him a spot in India’s T20I squad.

Tilak Varma’s Success Story at Asia Cup 2025

The Asia Cup 2025 final was Tilak’s defining moment. Walking in under pressure, he anchored the innings with calculated aggression, guiding India to victory. Childhood coach Bayash said, “To play such an innings in a high-stakes final is extremely satisfying. Tilak’s hard work and discipline have turned him into a national hero.”

From carrying a plastic bat in Hyderabad streets to dominating on the international stage, Tilak Varma’s journey exemplifies talent nurtured by determination and guidance. At 22, he is not just a rising star but a central figure in India’s cricketing future.

Maha Ashtami Draws Millions to Durga Puja Rituals Across India and Diaspora. Watch Pics…

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September 30, 2025, 7:04 PM

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On September 30, 2025, India marks Maha Ashtami, the eighth day of Navratri, with devotees performing Pushpanjali, Sandhi Puja, and Kanya Pujan to honor Goddess Durga in her form as Mahagauri.

In West Bengal, over 40,000 pandals in Kolkata host Dhunuchi Naach and festivities, while Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma visits pandals and Odisha conducts grand aartis emphasizing peace.

Global celebrations in London, New York, and Berlin integrate local customs with Indian traditions, contributing to a ₹50,000 crore festival economy, amid forecasts of heavy rain in South Bengal on October 1.

Maha Ashtami Draws Millions to Durga Puja Rituals Across India and Diaspora. Watch Pics...

In UK

Festive Décor Ideas Using Wall Lamps and Candles Together

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September 30, 2025, 6:26 PM

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Do you love festivals? Do you want your home to look pretty during celebrations? Wall lamps and candles can help you! Wall lamps hang on walls and give light. Candles are small and have flames. When you use both together, your home looks very beautiful.

This makes everyone feel happy. Your family and friends will love visiting your home during festivals.

Why Use Wall Lamps and Candles Together?

Wall lamps give steady light that stays on for hours. Candles give a dancing, flickering light that looks very pretty. Together, they make the perfect team for festival decorations.

Here are some reasons why this combination works so well:

Wall lamps provide main lighting for the room
Candles add a special glow and warmth
Both create different types of shadows on walls
They make the room smell nice when you use scented candles
The mix of steady and moving light looks beautiful

Easy Ideas for Different Festivals

Diwali Decorations

Diwali is the festival of lights. Wall lamps and candles work perfectly for this celebration.

Living Room Ideas:

Put small wall lamps near the main door
Place tea light candles on window sills
Use colorful wall lamps that match your rangoli colors
Light candles in brass diyas for a traditional look

Bedroom Ideas:

Install soft yellow wall lamps near the bed
Put scented candles on the side table
Create a corner with fairy lights and small candles
Use wall lamps with warm light to make the room cozy

Christmas Decorations

Christmas is all about creating a warm, happy feeling at home.

Dining Room Setup:

Put wall lamps with red or green shades
Place white candles on the dining table
Use wall lamps that look like stars or snowflakes
Light vanilla or cinnamon scented candles

Entrance Decoration:

Install wall lamps on both sides of the main door
Put large candles in glass holders near the entrance
Use wall lamps with cool white light
Add small candles around your Christmas tree

Eid Celebrations

Eid decorations should feel elegant and peaceful.

Prayer Room Ideas:

Use soft wall lamps that give gentle light
Place unscented candles for a calm feeling
Choose wall lamps with simple, beautiful designs
Light white or cream colored candles

Room-by-Room Decoration Tips

Kitchen Area

The kitchen is where families gather during festivals.

Put wall lamps under kitchen cabinets
Use small candles on the counter (but keep them safe)
Choose wall lamps that give bright, clear light
Place candles away from the cooking area

Bathroom

Even bathrooms can look festive with the right lighting.

Install wall lamps on both sides of the mirror
Put floating candles in a bowl of water
Use wall lamps that are safe for bathrooms
Choose unscented candles for this space

Balcony or Terrace

Outdoor spaces need special care for decorations.

Use wall lamps that can handle weather
Put candles in glass covers to protect from wind
Choose wall lamps with warm, yellow light
Use citronella candles to keep insects away

Safety Tips to Remember

When using wall lamps and candles together, safety is very important.

For Wall Lamps:

Check that all wires are in good condition
Don’t overload electrical sockets
Keep wall lamps away from curtains
Turn them off when leaving the house

For Candles:

Never leave burning candles alone
Keep candles away from children and pets
Put candles on stable, flat surfaces
Have water nearby in case of emergency
Blow out candles before going to sleep

Money-Saving Tips

Festival decorations don’t have to cost a lot of money.

Buy wall lamps during off-season sales
Make your own candles at home
Use LED wall lamps to save electricity
Reuse candle holders from previous years
Share decoration items with neighbors and friends

Creating the Perfect Mood

The right combination of wall lamps and candles can change how your home feels.

For Happy Celebrations:

Use bright wall lamps with colorful shades
Light many small candles around the room
Choose fruity or floral scented candles

For Quiet Prayer Time:

Use dim wall lamps with soft light
Light just a few candles for gentle glow
Pick unscented or lightly scented candles

Conclusion

Wall lamps and candles make festivals more fun. They make your home look nice and bright. Everyone will feel happy when they see the pretty lights. Always be careful when using lights and candles. Ask grown-ups to help you.

Try these ideas at your home. Start with just a few wall lamps and candles. Your festival will be the best one ever!

Dussehra Celebration Across India: Ram Lila to Ravana Dahan to Bijoy Dashmi to Golu and Shami Pooja

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September 30, 2025, 6:15 PM

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Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one amongst India’s most vibrant festivals, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. Falling just after Navratri, the festival is celebrated with unique traditions in different regions of the country, each weaving its own cultural flavour into the larger narrative of victory, hope, and renewal.

North and West India: Ramlila and Ravana Dahana

In much of North and West India, the day is synonymous with the legendary Ramlila performances, where scenes from the Ramayana are enacted in open-air theatres. As dusk falls, towering effigies of Ravana, Meghnada, and Kumbhkarna are set aflame amid fireworks, drawing cheers from massive crowds. The fiery spectacle is a dramatic reminder of Lord Rama’s victory over Ravana and the destruction of evil.

West Bengal: Bijoya Dashami

In Bengal, Dussehra coincides with Bijoya Dashami, marking the conclusion of the grand Durga Puja festivities. On this day, elaborately crafted idols of Goddess Durga are taken out in processions and immersed in rivers and lakes. The immersion, though emotional, is also joyous—symbolising the goddess’s return to her celestial abode. Families exchange sweets and greetings, wishing each other prosperity and harmony.

South India: Golu and Shami Puja

In the South, Dussehra concludes the traditional display of dolls and figurines known as Golu. Homes are decorated with tiered arrangements of deities, mythological scenes, and cultural icons. Another important ritual is the Shami Puja, where people worship the Shami tree as a symbol of goodwill, friendship, and new beginnings. For many, it is also an auspicious time to start new ventures.

A Festival of Harvest and Renewal

Beyond its mythological significance, Dussehra also aligns with the harvest season in many regions. Farmers celebrate it as a festival of abundance, marking the start of prosperity and fresh cycles of life.

The Eternal Message

At its core, Dussehra celebrates the victory of dharma over adharma—whether through Lord Rama’s conquest of Ravana or Goddess Durga’s triumph over Mahishasura. Dussehra 2025 will once again stand as a vibrant reminder that, no matter the challenges, good ultimately prevails over evil.

Across rituals, worship, and cultural festivities, Vijayadashami continues to inspire faith, courage, and new beginnings for millions.