Note: Tithi & muhurat timings differ based on location. Therefore, refer to your local Panchang for the exact timing.

Hindus celebrate Dussehra because of this day, as per the “Ramayana,” Bhagwan Shri Ram defeated the ten-headed demon king Ravana and brought “Maa Sita” back. In another tradition, “Maa Durga” vanquished the buffalo demon “Mahishasura” after a fierce nine-day battle. It is these two victories that people celebrate on Dussehra and Vijayadashami. 

Dussehra reminds us of the victory of “good over evil,” “truth over falsehood,” and “dharma over adharma.” These victories also remind us of a few important things in life: 

• Overcoming inner weaknesses: Ravana’s ten heads are often seen as symbols of qualities such as ego, anger, greed, jealousy and attachment. His defeat reminds us to recognise and overcome such qualities within ourselves.

• The strength of Shakti: Similarly, Maa Durga fought Mahishasura for days and finally defeated him. Many people see this as the power of Shakti, and as a reminder to stand up when something is unfair instead of staying quiet. 

• A new beginning: Dussehra marks the completion of “Navratri” and, for many families, the end of the period of fasting and worship. It is also considered an auspicious time to begin “new work.”

Ravan Dahan will take place in the “evening of 20th October,” on Vijayadashami. In many cities, Ravan Dahan is held after “sunset” at the local Ramlila ground. There is no single Ravan Dahan time for the whole country. 

The “Vijay muhurat” is considered one of the most auspicious periods of Vijayadashami. Many devotees choose this time to:

• Begin new work

• Start a business

• Make an important purchase or 

• Take an important step in life.

For Dussehra 2026, the Vijay Muhurat is on: “Tuesday, 20 October, from 2:07 PM to 2:53 PM.”

Dussehra looks different depending on where you are in India.

• North and West India: People organise “Ramlila” based on the Ramayana. On Dussehra, large effigies of “Ravana,” “Kumbhakarna” and “Meghnad” are burned during “Ravan Dahan.” .

• East India: In West Bengal and Odisha, Dussehra is the last day of “Durga puja.” Married women play “Sindoor Khela,” and the idols of Maa Durga are immersed in rivers or other water bodies (Visarjan).

• South India: In Karnataka, “Mysuru Dasara” is known for its royal procession and the lit-up Mysore Palace. Across the south, people perform “Ayudha puja” to honour their tools, books and vehicles. Many families also set up “Navratri Golu,” a display of dolls on steps.

For a simple Dussehra puja at home, you may keep:

• Roli and kumkum

• Akshat

• Turmeric

• Mauli

• Fresh flowers

• Marigold garland

• Diya and ghee or oil

• Incense sticks

• Camphor

• Fruits

• Sweets

• Coconut

• Shami leaves, if following Shami Puja

• Gangajal

• Clean cloth for the puja space

Point to Consider: For Ayudha Puja, clean the tools, books, vehicles, instruments or other items that are worshipped by your family.

The exact Dussehra Puja Vidhi differs according to region and family tradition. A simple home puja can be performed in the following way:

• Take a bath and wear clean clothes 

• Place Maa Durga or Bhagwan Shri Ram idol at the puja place

• Light a ghee or oil diya and incense

• Offer flowers, akshat, roli or kumkum, fruits and sweets to the deity

• Pray and listen to the “Ramayana” or the story of “Vijayadashami”

• Worship the “Shami tree” and clean tools, vehicles, books or other items used for work (if Ayudha or Shami puja is performed in your family)

• Conclude the puja with aarti

Is Dussehra and Vijayadashami the same?

When is Dussehra in 2026?

Will Dussehra be celebrated on the same date across India?