Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Brajmohan Ram celebrated Vijaya Dashami with children at SOS Children’s Village in Bhubaneswar, urging them to draw inspiration from Goddess Durga and Lord Shri Ram and face life’s challenges with courage, discipline and determination.

Accompanied by First Lady Leela Devi, the Governor visited the children’s village on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami and interacted with the children. The authorities of SOS Children’s Village welcomed the Governor and the First Lady. During the visit, the Governor distributed sweets among the children and extended his festive greetings.

Addressing the children, Ram said Vijaya Dashami symbolises the triumph of good over evil, commemorating Goddess Durga’s victory over Mahishasura and Lord Shri Ram’s victory over Ravana.

He said Goddess Durga embodies strength, courage, compassion and women’s empowerment, while her story reinforces the enduring message that truth, righteousness and justice ultimately prevail. He urged the children to stand firmly against injustice and evil.

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Describing children as the nation’s most precious assets and its bright future, the Governor encouraged them to imbibe the courage of Goddess Durga and the values and ideals exemplified by Lord Shri Ram.

He urged them to pursue their studies diligently, maintain discipline and work hard to realise their aspirations. He also encouraged them to confront difficulties with courage, confidence and determination.

Expressing happiness over celebrating the festival with the children, the Governor wished them happiness, good health, knowledge and success in their lives.

Likewise, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik on Tuesday extended greetings to the state's people on the occasion of Vijaya Dashami and Dussehra.

"Heartfelt greetings to the people of the state on the auspicious occasion of Vijaya Dashami. May the grace of Mother Durga, the creator of the universe, fill everyone's life with happiness, peace, and prosperity," Governor Odisha said in a post on X.

Majhi, who is observing the festival in a subdued manner as a mark of solidarity with farmers affected by rains and floods, highlighted the festival's significance as a celebration of the victory of truth over falsehood, righteousness over unrighteousness, and justice over injustice.

"Heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all on the grand festival of the victory of truth over falsehood, righteousness over unrighteousness, and justice over injustice—the sacred 'Vijaya Dashami' also known as 'Dussehra'," Majhi said in a post on X.

Patnaik wished the people and, in a post on X, said: "May truth and justice be established. May Ma Durga's blessings bring happiness and prosperity into everyone's lives. My Sharadiya greetings to all, Jai Ma Durga."

President Droupadi Murmu also extended Vijayadashami greetings to Indians in the country and abroad on October 19. In her message, she said, "On the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all Indians living in the country and abroad." She highlighted the festival's message of righteousness and justice and called upon citizens to uphold the ideals of India's cultural traditions and contribute towards building an inclusive society and a Viksit Bharat.

Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo also extended greetings to the people on Vijayadashami and Dussehra on October 20, invoking Goddess Durga as the embodiment of strength and praying for everyone's well-being.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida conveyed her festive wishes to the people of Odisha on October 20, praying that the blessings of Lord Jagannath and Goddess Durga would bring happiness, peace and prosperity to every family.