Indians celebrate Dussehra

New Delhi, Oct 6 (ANI): The festival of Dussehra, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil, is being celebrated through out the country today.

President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh have greeted the people on the occasion.

President Patil said the festival should motivate people to work whole-heartedly for the nation.

In his message, Ansari wished the festival would bring peace, prosperity and joy to the citizens of the country.

Dr. Singh said, the festival is an inspiration for leading a life of righteous action. He expressed the hope that Durga Puja and Dussehra would usher peace, prosperity and happiness for all.

In the months of Ashwin and Kartik, Hindus observe a 10-day ceremony of fast, rituals, celebrations and feasts to honor the Mother Goddess and the triumph of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana.

Dussehra also symbolizes the triumph of the warrior Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.

The effigies of Ravana, his son Meghnada and his brother Kumbhakarna will be consigned to flames, while idols of the Goddess Durga will be water. (ANI)