Is Dussehra Celebrated In Thailand – Most Famous Temples to Visit

          One of the biggest Hindu festival, Dussehra (or Vijayadashami) celebrates the victory of good over evil. Although Dussehra is mostly observed in Bangladesh, India, and Nepal, it is also widely observed in Thailand, where it is known as the Festival of the Goddess Uma.

          Although it is not very large, Thailand’s Hindu community is lively and engaged. The focal point of the nation’s Dussehra celebrations is Bangkok’s Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. One of the oldest Hindu temples in Thailand, it is devoted to the goddess Mariamman, a manifestation of Durga.

          The nine-night festival of Navratri, which falls before Dussehra, is when the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is decked out in vibrant lights and flowers. Devotees take part in a number of rites, such as the kumbhabhishekam, which sanctifies the temple with holy water.

          Devotees assemble at the temple on Dussehra, the tenth day of Navratri, to celebrate Rama’s victory over Ravana. Effigies of Meghanada, the son of Ravana, and his brother Kumbhakarna are set ablaze to symbolize the victory of good over evil.

          Dussehra is a time for celebration and eating in addition to religious rituals. Traditional foods like sweets, savory dishes, and vegetarian meals are prepared by devotees. They greet and exchange gifts with friends and family as well.

          Thailand celebrates Dussehra with a distinctive fusion of Thai and Hindu customs. The festival is an occasion for people of both faiths to unite and celebrate the victory of good over evil, and it is a monument to the close cultural ties that exist between India and Thailand.

          Read more on the Significance of Dussehra in our article, What Is The Significance Of Vijayadashami Celebration?