There are numerous and unique traditions associated with
Dussehra and Vijaya Dashami like giving apta leaves and performing shami tree
puja. One such unique tradition is eating pan on Dussehra.
On the day people offer paan to Lord Hanuman and later
consume it as Prasad. It is widely believed that Hanuman loves eating paan.
As per Hindu astrology, paan is a symbol of victory and
Vijaya Dashami celebrates the victory of Sri Ram over Ravana and that of
Goddess Durga over Mahishasura.
People eat paan after the burning of the effigy of Ravana.
And take a vow to follow Dharma the path of righteousness.
Paan is also a symbol of love, honor, fame, dignity and
esteem. This is the reason why it is widely used during auspicious events.
Dussehra also marks the change of season and various contagious
diseases spread during the period. There is a belief that paan improves
immunity and provides protection against diseases.
During Navratri, people fast for nine days and mostly eat
very light food. After the nine-day fasting, when people start eating normal
food they will face digestion problems and the paan helps with digestion.