New Delhi [India], October 1 : President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday extended her greetings to the nation on the eve of Vijayadashami, highlighting the festival's message of truth, justice, and harmony.

In her message, the President said, "On the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens."
"The festival of Vijayadashami, symbolising the victory of Dharma over Adharma, inspires us to follow the path of truth and justice. Celebrated in various parts of the country as Ravana Dahan and Durga Puja, this festival reflects our national values. This festival also teaches us to renounce negative tendencies like anger and ego, and embrace positive ones like courage and determination. May this festival inspire us to build a society and country where all people move ahead together, inspired by the ideas of justice, equality and harmony," President Murmu said.
Dussehra, also known as Vijayadashami, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals in India and it will be celebrated on October 2 this year.
It marks the victory of good over evil and is celebrated in diverse ways across the country. It commemorates Lord Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana, symbolising the triumph of truth and righteousness over arrogance and evil.
Effigy burning of Ravana, Meghnad, and Kumbhkaran is a popular tradition in many parts of India.The festival also inspires people to conquer their inner evils like anger, greed, pride, and jealousy, and to uphold the values of truth, virtue, and righteousness.
Meanwhile, earlier today, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath performed Kanya Pujan on Mahanavami, the last day of Sharadiya Navratri, at Gorakhnath Temple.
The ritual reflects the Peeth's deep reverence for Matru Shakti, a sentiment Yogi Adityanath has further translated into action through various schemes for women's safety, empowerment, and dignity since becoming the Chief Minister.
According to an official release, during the ceremony on Wednesday, CM Yogi washed the feet of nine girls symbolising the nine forms of Goddess Durga, performed their worship as per rituals, draped them with a chunari, carried out aarti, served them food with devotion, and then sought their blessings by offering dakshina and gifts.
Staying true to tradition, the Chief Minister also performed Batuk Pujan (worship of young boys).