Dussehra

In Hindu tradition, festival celebrating the defeat of the ten-headed demon Ravana by Rama, and the victory of good over evil. It is held the day after the festival of Navaratri (‘nine nights’), also known as Durga Puja. In the battle, every time Rama chopped off one of Ravana's ten heads, it grew back, until finally, on the tenth day, Rama pierced Ravana through the navel and he died. During the festival the battle is re-enacted, and a gigantic wood and paper effigy of Ravana, often filled with fireworks, is set alight with a flaming arrow. The model burns dramatically, while the fireworks explode.

Dussehra is regarded as a special holiday for brides and engaged people, and a significant day to make new beginnings.