Victory of good over evil

Dussehra (Vijayadashami) 2026

Tuesday, 20 October 2026

Vijayadashami falls on Tuesday 20 October 2026, the day after Maha Navami, marking Rama's victory over Ravana and Durga's victory over Mahishasura.

Dussehra, or Vijayadashami, is celebrated on the tenth day (Dashami) of the bright half of Ashwin. In much of India it marks Lord Rama's victory over Ravana and is celebrated with Ramlila performances and the burning of Ravana effigies; in Bengal and eastern India it marks the end of Durga Puja and the immersion of the idol.

The day is considered auspicious for new beginnings, and people traditionally begin studies, buy tools or vehicles and start ventures. Shastra puja (worship of tools and weapons) and Aparajita puja are common.

Rituals

Ravana dahan at dusk.
Shami puja and Aparajita puja in the afternoon.
Shastra puja: honouring books, tools and vehicles.
Sindoor khela and Durga visarjan in Bengal.

Do

Begin something new or important today.
Exchange greetings and share sweets.

Avoid

Avoid conflict and start the day with prayer.

Frequently asked questions

When is Dussehra 2026?

Tuesday 20 October 2026.

Is Dussehra a good day to start something?

Yes. Vijayadashami is traditionally treated as an auspicious day for new beginnings and does not need a separate muhurat for many people.

Festival dates follow the Hindu lunar calendar (tithi) and can differ by a day between regions and panchangs. Times are computed for each city from NASA JPL planetary data. Confirm with your local temple or priest for religious observances.

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Dussehra (Vijayadashami) 2026

Rituals

Do

Avoid

Frequently asked questions

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