Traditional fervour marks Dussehra celebrations in Maharashtra

Dussehra, the festival signifying the victory of good over evil, was today celebrated with religious fervour and gaiety in the metropolis and other parts of Maharashtra.
Markets wore festive look and since morning, people dressed in traditional attires shopped for puja and decorative items.
The festival, also known as Vijayadashmi, commemorates the killing of demon king Ravana by Lord Ram. It also celebrates the killing of buffalo-demon Mahishasur by Goddess Durga.
In Maharashtra, people distributed leaves of Apta tree as part of Dussehra celebrations. Apta leaves represents gold and people present them to friends, relatives, neighbours and wish them on the occasion.

People celebrated the festival by worshipping instruments and putting 'toran' (garlands of marigold flowers) at the entrance of their homes.
The day marks the culmination of nine-day fasting period of Navratri, during which Goddess Durga is worshipped. It also coincides with the immersion of idols of Goddess Durga.
The festival was celebrated with gusto and enthusiasm in other parts of the State also.