Dussehra 2026: Date, Significance & Rituals
The victory of good over evil
Dussehra, also called Vijayadashami, falls on the tenth day of the bright fortnight of Ashwin, immediately after the nine nights of Navratri. Its name, vijaya-dashami, means “the tenth day of victory”.
The festival celebrates the triumph of good over evil. In most of North India it marks Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana, and in eastern India and elsewhere, Goddess Durga’s victory over the demon Mahishasura.
Dussehra 2026 Date
Dussehra 2026 is on Tuesday, 20 October 2026. It is observed on Ashwin Shukla Dashami — the Dashami tithi of the Shukla paksha in the lunar month of Ashwin.
Hindu festival dates follow the lunar calendar and can vary by a day between regions and traditions. Always confirm the date and timings with your local panchang.
The Significance of Dussehra
In the Ramayana tradition, Dussehra is the day Rama defeated Ravana, the ten-headed king of Lanka who had abducted Sita. After a long war, Rama’s arrow brought Ravana down — the victory of dharma over arrogance and adharma.
In the Devi tradition, the day marks the culmination of Navratri: the moment Goddess Durga slew the buffalo demon Mahishasura after a nine-day battle, which is why it is also called Vijayadashami.
Across India the day is celebrated with the burning of towering effigies of Ravana, his brother Kumbhakarna and his son Meghnad, the staging of the Ramlila, and the immersion of Durga idols. It is also considered an auspicious day to begin new ventures and learning.
Dussehra Puja Vidhi
- In the evening, gather at open grounds where effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnad are set up.
- Watch or take part in the Ramlila, the dramatic re-enactment of the story of Rama, which concludes on this day.
- The effigies are set alight, symbolising the destruction of evil, often accompanied by fireworks.
- Worship weapons, tools and instruments of one’s trade in the Ayudha Puja, and seek blessings for new beginnings.
- Exchange greetings and sweets, and honour elders by offering them leaves of the shami tree as a token of victory.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Dussehra in 2026?
Dussehra in 2026 falls on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, on Ashwin Dashami.
Why is Dussehra celebrated?
Dussehra celebrates the victory of good over evil — Rama’s defeat of Ravana in the Ramayana tradition, and Goddess Durga’s defeat of the demon Mahishasura in the Devi tradition.
Why are effigies of Ravana burned on Dussehra?
Burning the effigies of Ravana, Kumbhakarna and Meghnad symbolises the destruction of evil, ego and injustice, and the triumph of righteousness on the day Rama defeated Ravana.
Is Dussehra a good day to start new things?
Yes. Vijayadashami is considered one of the most auspicious days of the year for beginning new ventures, learning, and important undertakings, as it celebrates victory and success.