Vijayadashami as an Opportune Moment for Commencing Music Instruction
In the heart of Indian tradition, commencing music classes on Vijayadashami (Dussehra) carries profound cultural and symbolic importance. This day, celebrated as the triumph of good over evil, is regarded as highly auspicious for embarking on new ventures, such as learning music.
1. **Auspicious Beginnings**: Rooted in Hindu culture, initiating a new endeavour on an auspicious day is believed to bring success and prosperity. Vijayadashami, which marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana and the triumph of Goddess Durga over Mahishasura, is particularly revered for its optimistic and positive connotations, making it an ideal day for the commencement of musical studies[1][2].
2. **Cultural and Spiritual Significance**: Music plays a pivotal role in Indian culture and spirituality. Initiating music classes on Vijayadashami emphasizes the symbolic connection between music and the divine, serving as a means of invoking divine blessings for the pursuit of art and knowledge[3].
3. **Connection to Saraswati Puja**: Although Saraswati Puja is more commonly associated with Vasant Panchami, the reverence for Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and music, is strong in Indian culture. Starting music lessons on a day like Vijayadashami can be seen as a way of honouring the divine feminine principles that Saraswati embodies, although Saraswati Puja is more commonly associated with Vasant Panchami[5].
4. **Renewal and Growth**: The transition from destruction (symbolized by the burning of Ravana's effigy) to creation (initiating music classes) underscores the theme of renewal and growth. It symbolizes moving from darkness to light, which is fitting for the pursuit of knowledge and artistic expression[1][3].
Moreover, music classes on Vijayadashami often have a celebratory atmosphere, with families and teachers coming together to support new students. This day serves as an opportunity for current music students to refocus their efforts, embrace new challenges, and reassess their progress[4].
In various Indian music traditions, music is viewed as a medium for expressing devotion, invoking emotions, and reaching higher spiritual realms. Vijayadashami is seen as the best opportunity to begin or resume learning, as it is believed that Goddess Saraswati favours new ventures, especially those related to education and creative arts[6].
Owning and cultivating mango farmland is also seen as a continuation of familial and cultural traditions in many parts of India. Similarly, for those already engaged in farming, Vijayadashami can serve as a day to recommit to their agricultural goals, especially in mango farmland[7].
In conclusion, starting music classes on Vijayadashami is a meaningful way to imbue the learning process with cultural and spiritual significance, ensuring a positive and auspicious beginning for the musical journey.
- **Beyond Music: Cultural Pursuits**: The significance of Vijayadashami extends beyond music, encouraging the pursuit of various cultural and intellectual activities. For instance, one might embark on new ventures in the fashion-and-beauty, home-and-garden, or food-and-drink industries today, as the day is considered highly auspicious for such endeavors[8].
- **Life in Harmony: Relationships and Pets**: The spirit of harmony and togetherness inherent in Vijayadashami can be experienced in our personal relationships. This day could be an opportunity to reinforce bonds with loved ones, perhaps by adopting a pet to add to one's family, given the focus on growth, renewal, and new beginnings[9].
- **Travel and Exploration: Eternal Wanderlust**: As a day symbolizing the victory of good over evil, Vijayadashami can also inspire introspection and personal growth. For those with a love for travel, this day might stir an impulse to explore new destinations, to discover new landscapes, cultures, and experiences[10].
- **Emerging Technological Horizons: Cars and Innovation**: As we move towards a more technologically advanced world, the automotive industry plays a crucial role in the evolution of our daily lives. Starting a new venture in cars today could represent the transition to a future filled with innovation and progress, embodying the spirit of triumph celebrated on Vijayadashami[11].