Dussehra 2024: Know The Significance And Rituals Related To Shami Tree During This Festival

Dussehra, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is a major Hindu festival celebrated to mark the victory of Lord Rama over the demon king Ravana, symbolising the triumph of good over evil. It typically falls in September or October and concludes the nine-day festival of Navaratri. This year, Dusserah falls on Saturday, October 12. Do you know during Dussehra, the Shami tree is considered an important symbol? The Shami tree, often associated with Dusserah, holds special significance. According to Hindu Mythology, after defeating Ravana, Lord Rama returned to his kingdom of Ayodhya and, to seek blessings, he worshipped the Shami tree. The leaves of this tree are believed to symbolise victory and success, making it a traditional practice to worship it during Dussehra.

In many regions, people bring Shami leaves home, which are used in rituals and are also considered auspicious for new beginnings, particularly in business and personal endeavours. The tree embodies hope, prosperity, and the promise of victory over challenges.

The Shami tree is linked with Goddess Mahalakshmi and Lord Bholenath as well. Worshipping it is believed to bring not only prosperity but it also alleviates Shani Dosh.

Astrologer Rishikant Mishra Shastri explains that the Shami tree is associated with Lord Shani and is favoured by Lord Shiva. Worshipping it can help mitigate issues related to Saturn, including Shani’s Sade Sati and Dhaiya.

For monetary benefits, eone should wake up early, bury a betel nut and a coin in the soil of a Shami tree pot, and light a sesame oil lamp under the tree for seven consecutive days to attract wealth. In mythology, the Pandavas, during their exile, hid their weapons in a Shami tree, which they later used to secure victory in the Mahabharata war, making the tree a symbol of power and triumph. To worship the tree on Dussehra, it is necessary to approach the tree, bow down, pour water at its base, apply sandalwood and rice, and offer flowers. Light a lamp and perform Aarti while praying with folded hands.

Worshipping the Shami tree on Dussehra can protect one from various troubles and lead to success in different endeavours. It is also believed to eliminate black magic and obstacles while reducing the adverse effects of Shani’s sade Sati and Dhaiya.