Dussehra, also called Dasara or Vijayadashami, celebrates the victory of Lord Rama – the seventh avatar of God Vishnu – over Ravana, a multi-headed demon king who kidnapped Rama’s wife Sita.
His triumph over Ravana marked the end of an evil rule, signifying the success of good over evil.
The festival marks the end of Navratri, which is one of the most important and widely-celebrated festivals in India, with devotees to the Goddess Durga honouring her nine forms over the nine days.