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Why Shami Tree is Worshipped on Dussehra and Its Mahabharata Connection
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News18•19-10-2026, 19:01
Why Shami Tree is Worshipped on Dussehra and Its Mahabharata Connection
- •Dussehra or Vijayadashami marks the victory of good over evil, and worshipping the Shami tree is linked to this spirit of victory and auspicious beginnings.
- •According to the Mahabharata, the Pandavas hid their divine weapons in a Shami tree during their exile in disguise before retrieving them for the war.
- •In regions like Maharashtra, people traditionally exchange Shami leaves on Dussehra, symbolically referring to them as gold to wish prosperity and happiness.
- •Worshipping the Shami tree is believed to inspire courage, self-confidence, and strength to face life's challenges.
- •Devotees clean the area around the Shami tree on Dussehra, light a lamp, offer water, and pray for family well-being.
Key Questions Answered
The Shami tree is worshipped on Dussehra because it symbolizes victory, courage, and auspicious beginnings. According to religious beliefs, Lord Rama worshipped it or defeated Ravana on this day, and people pray to remove troubles and gain success.
During their exile in disguise, the Pandavas hid their weapons in the Shami tree. Upon completing their exile on Vijayadashami, they retrieved their weapons from the tree and worshipped it before entering war.
In regions like Maharashtra, people exchange Shami leaves on Dussehra to convey good wishes, respect, and prosperity to relatives and elders. These leaves are symbolically called gold to represent sweetness and happiness in relationships rather than literal material wealth.
