People from the Indian subcontinent as well as those from the Hindu diaspora mark the end of Navratri and wish each other Happy Dussehra on October 24 this year.
The festival marks the day Lord Rama defeated Ravana, the 10-headed demon king of Lanka, according to the Hindu epic Ramayana. As such, Dussehra (also known as Vijayadashami) represents the victory of good over evil and the banishing of darkness and negativity to welcome prosperous new beginnings.
In some parts of India, Dussehra is celebrated by burning large-scale effigies of Ravana accompanied by fireworks, which is then followed by a feast. People dress up in vibrant new clothes, wish each other “Happy Dussehra”, and send messages hoping friends and family find happiness, prosperity, success and good health.
Here are four other acts and totems considered auspicious on this occasion.
Buying gold
As during the Indian festival of Dhanteras, making new investments is considered auspicious on Dussehra, of which buying gold tops the charts for many Indians. The precious yellow metal is seen as the ultimate symbol of wealth, and Indian brides are often decked out in gold, which is also the gift of choice during happy occasions such as weddings and childbirth.
It is thought buying gold on certain auspicious days such as Dussehra will attract further fortune in the year ahead.
Although vehicles are not considered an asset, some people also choose to get the delivery of their new cars on Dussehra.
Worshipping tools and vehicles
Not only is it usual to buy a new car on Dussehra, but said car is also bedecked in garlands of marigold flowers and a hanging ornament made of lemon and green chilli to ward off bad luck.
Likewise, the threshold of the house is decorated with marigold, while tilak (a paste of red powder and water) is applied to work tools, books of accounts and, lately, computers, as a way of showing gratitude to these possessions. It is also thought this act will bring success when they are used next.
Eating chole and jalebi
Certain foods are believed to bring good luck when served on Dussehra day, most notably chickpeas and Indian sweetmeats such as jalebi and kheer.
The chickpeas are made as a curry of black chole or as a dal paratha, while jalebi (Lord Rama's favourite sweet) is often served with salty fafda.
Spiritual belief aside, the science dictates these dishes provide maximum nutrition to the body as many people fast during the nine days of Navrati preceding Dussehra.
Spotting a neelkanth bird
The neelkanth or Indian roller, known for its vibrant blue plumage, is the bird Rama was said to have come across before he embarked on his quest to Lanka. As such, the bird is now considered a symbol of luck, protection and guidance.
Classification of skills
A worker is categorised as skilled by the MOHRE based on nine levels given in the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) issued by the International Labour Organisation.
A skilled worker would be someone at a professional level (levels 1 – 5) which includes managers, professionals, technicians and associate professionals, clerical support workers, and service and sales workers.
The worker must also have an attested educational certificate higher than secondary or an equivalent certification, and earn a monthly salary of at least Dh4,000.
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The flights
The closest international airport for those travelling from the UAE is Denver, Colorado. British Airways (www.ba.com) flies from the UAE via London from Dh3,700 return, including taxes. From there, transfers can be arranged to the ranch or it’s a seven-hour drive. Alternatively, take an internal flight to the counties of Cody, Casper, or Billings
The stay
Red Reflet offers a series of packages, with prices varying depending on season. All meals and activities are included, with prices starting from US$2,218 (Dh7,150) per person for a minimum stay of three nights, including taxes. For more information, visit red-reflet-ranch.net.
