Dussehra 2025 is almost here, and across India, families are preparing to celebrate the victory of good over evil in their own special ways. Also known as Vijayadashami, this festival marks two great triumphs — Lord Ram’s victory over Ravana in the Ramayana and Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura.
But what makes Dussehra truly magical is how different states of India celebrate Dussehra with unique traditions, stories, and cultural practices. From effigy burning in the North to Durga Puja in the East, every celebration teaches children timeless values of truth, courage, and kindness.
At Panda’s Box, where we believe in introducing culture through play, we love how festivals like Dussehra give parents an opportunity to share heritage and stories with their little ones. Let’s take a journey across India and explore how Dussehra is celebrated in different states.
North India: Ramlila and Ravana Effigies
In states like Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Bihar, Dussehra celebrations are incomplete without the Ramlila. For ten days leading up to Vijayadashami, scenes from the Ramayana are performed in open-air theatres, captivating children and adults alike.
On Dussehra night, giant effigies of Ravana, Meghnath, and Kumbhakarna are set on fire, symbolizing the destruction of evil. Families gather, children watch wide-eyed, and the lesson of choosing truth and courage becomes unforgettable.
(Tip for parents: Use our Ram or Hanuman plushie as a conversation starter to tell your child stories from the Ramayana. When they hold the plush, it becomes easier to explain values like courage, truth, and devotion in a playful and relatable way.)
West Bengal: Durga Puja
In West Bengal, Dussehra coincides with Durga Puja, the state’s grandest festival. Here, the focus is on Maa Durga’s victory over Mahishasura.
Gigantic idols of Durga are worshipped for nine days with rituals, music, and dance. On Vijayadashami, idols are immersed in rivers or lakes in a beautiful farewell procession. For children, this is an introduction to devotion, art, and community celebration.
(Try this at home: Our Durga plushie paired with plush marigold malas creates a playful Durga Puja corner for kids.)
Karnataka: Mysuru Dasara
Mysuru in Karnataka hosts one of India’s most famous Dussehra festivals. The Mysore Palace is decorated with thousands of lights, and a royal procession features Goddess Chamundeshwari on a golden chariot. Cultural performances, music, and dance add to the grandeur.
This celebration shows kids that Dussehra is not just about mythological stories but also about community pride, heritage, and art.
Maharashtra: The Golden Exchange
In Maharashtra, families celebrate by exchanging apta leaves, believed to symbolize gold. This tradition is called “sona exchange” and is a way of wishing prosperity and happiness.
It’s a simple act that teaches children the value of sharing blessings and togetherness. Pairing this tradition with cultural gifting — like plush deities or Panda’s Box festive décor — makes it even more memorable.
Tamil Nadu & Andhra Pradesh: Bommai Golu
In South India, Bommai Golu is a highlight of Navratri and Dussehra. Families decorate steps with dolls and figurines representing gods, epics, and scenes from everyday life.
For children, it’s like a cultural storytelling display at home. Parents can make it more playful by adding mini plush toys of Krishna, Hanuman, or Durga into the Golu setup. It turns storytelling into playtime.
Himachal Pradesh: Kullu Dussehra
In Himachal Pradesh, Kullu celebrates Dussehra for an entire week. Local deities are carried in colorful processions, with fairs, music, and dances lighting up the valley. Interestingly, Ravana’s effigy is not burnt here. Instead, the focus is on devotion, gathering, and joy.
Why Dussehra Matters for Kids
Whether it’s the fire of Ravana effigies in the North, the art of Durga Puja in the East, or the creativity of Bommai Golu in the South, Dussehra celebrations across India teach children the same core value — goodness always triumphs over evil.
At Panda’s Box, we bring these traditions into everyday play — through plush companions, puzzles, festive décor, and cultural gifts. Each product is designed to help parents share values and culture in a way children love.
🎉 Celebrate Dussehra 2025 with Panda’s Box
This Dussehra, let’s go beyond fireworks and effigies. Let’s give our kids the gift of culture — stories they can hug, puzzles they can solve, and lessons they can carry for life.
✨ Play. Learn. Connect. With Panda’s Box.
